PRS v Valve Corporation - Music Rights, Games Distribution and Platform Liability: Initial Observations
On 9 March 2026, PRS for Music announced that it had commenced legal proceedings in the UK against Valve Corporation, the operator of the Steam platform, alleging, according to PRS, that Valve had made use of PRS members’ musical works on Steam without the necessary permission. PRS said it issued proceedings on 4... Read More →
Grandparents and grandchildren: understanding contact rights in England and Wales
Grandparents often provide stability, reassurance and continuity in a child’s life. In many families, contact happens naturally and without difficulty. Problems tend to arise when relationships between adults break down, following separation, bereavement or wider family disputes. At that point, grandparents are... Read More →
Drip Pricing: Why Businesses Must Get Consumer Pricing Right
Recent enforcement action by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has put drip pricing firmly in the regulatory spotlight. The message for businesses is clear: consumer pricing must be transparent from the outset, or the consequences can be severe.
The background to this being back in the headlines is... Read More →
Planning for the Future: What to Include in a UK Shareholders’ Agreement
A shareholders’ agreement is often overlooked at the start of a new business venture. When shareholders are aligned and optimism is high, it can feel unnecessary. However, experience shows that this document is one of the most important safeguards a company can put in place.
A well-drafted shareholders’... Read More →
The UK Government’s 2026 Late Payment Reforms - horizon-scanning for business owners
On 24 March 2026, the UK Government published its official response to the 2025 late payments consultation. It promises the most significant overhaul of late‑payment law in over 25 years, with a particular focus on protecting smaller suppliers and strengthening enforcement.
According to the Government... Read More →
Lasting Powers of Attorney: Why They Matter and What’s Changing in 2026
Financial expert Martin Lewis recently reminded viewers of something many people overlook: the importance of having a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) in place. An LPA is not just for later life, it’s a vital safeguard for anyone who wants to ensure their wishes are respected if ever they were to lose mental... Read More →
R v Lakeman - what game developers need to know now that virtual currency can be classed as “property”
The Court of Appeal’s judgment in R v Lakeman [2026] EWCA Crim 4 marks a significant point in the UK’s treatment of digital assets, particularly for in‑game currencies used within online games. The court held that gold pieces in Old School RuneScape... Read More →
France abolishing VAT Simplification Regime 42: what non-EU exporters need to know
From 1 January 2026, France introduced major changes to its customs and VAT rules that affect how goods are imported into France from outside the EU. These changes apply to all non-EU businesses, not just UK exporters.
The current position – What is “Regime 42”?
Under the past rules, non-EU... Read More →
Legal Pitfalls for UK Game Startups in 2026
With indie studios and startups in the UK driving innovation and creativity, the future is bright. However, the legal landscape is evolving rapidly and, aside from the complexities of developing and releasing a game, failing to address key issues can result in costly disputes, regulatory penalties, or even business... Read More →
Why International Manufacturers Need Robust Terms and Conditions of Sale
When speaking with manufacturing businesses that trade globally, one of the most common questions I hear is:
"Do we really need detailed terms and conditions of sale?"
If we rephrase that question to "Should we have a document that sets clear expectations with our overseas customers, demonstrates our... Read More →
Eaton Smith Solicitors Triumph at Yorkshire Legal Awards 2025
Eaton Smith Solicitors is proud to announce that its Commercial Property team has been named Commercial Property Team of the Year at the prestigious Yorkshire Legal Awards 2025.
The ceremony, held in Leeds, brought together the region’s top legal talent to celebrate excellence across the legal profession.... Read More →
Why Your Terms & Conditions Matter More Than You Think
When I am out and about at business start-up events for either speaking or Q&A purposes, one of the most frequent questions I am asked is "Do I need terms and conditions? What are they about?"
If you rephrased the question to "Should I have a document that I can put in place between my business and my... Read More →
