In this latest Today's Family Lawyer Podcast host David Opie welcomes Laura Tanguay and Lucy Birch from Birketts LLP to discuss the launch of their Modern Families service.

Lucy Birch is a senior associate in the family team, and Laura Tanguay is a legal director in the property disputes team; with the podcast exploring how this unique combination of expertise is central to the Modern Families service.

Laura Tanguay explains the rationale behind the Modern Families service, emphasising the decision to house Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act (TOLATA) disputes within the property disputes team rather than the family team. This approach is driven by the fact that these cases are heard in civil courts under civil procedure rules, making it more logical for property disputes specialists to handle them. Laura's expertise in property disputes is crucial for handling increasingly common cohabitation issues.

The discussion moves on to explore the lack of understanding among the public regarding their rights and the complexities of TOLATA claims, with both Laura and Lucy echoing the sentiment of many practitioners on the need for reform.

In a topical discussion, the podcast explores how to protect clients, particularly those purchasing property as first-time buyers with partners and working with other members of the firm, like conveyancers, to ensure clients understand their rights.

The Today's Family Lawyer podcast is available on your preferred podcast provider and at www.todaysfamilylawyer.co.uk.

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