Eaton Smith Announces Promotion of Family Law Specialist Zahra Nawaz to Partner
Eaton Smith Solicitors is delighted to announce the promotion of Zahra Nawaz to Partner, recognising her exceptional contribution to the firm, her outstanding reputation in family law, and her commitment to delivering excellent outcomes for clients. With more than 20 years of experience in family law, Zahra has... Read More
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 March... 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 response, late... 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 (“OSRS”) are “property” for the purposes of the Theft Act 1968. This... 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 businesses could use Customs... 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 credibility as a... 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. Eaton Smith’s... 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 customer that... Read More
Protecting Creativity in the Age of AI
Why do we need transparency of copyrighted content in AI? A critical debate striking at the heart of the UK’s creative industries has played out in Parliament as the UK positions itself as a global leader in artificial intelligence. On 10 June 2025, the House of Commons debated the government’s ongoing resistance to a... Read More
Penmoor U K Limited purchases expansive new site for £16 million at Flaxby, Knaresborough, North Yorkshire
Eaton Smith LLP have advised Huddersfield based Penmoor (UK) Limited on their newest expansion. Penmoor have been in the business of manufacturing bottled water in Shepley, Huddersfield for over 20 years and have been looking to expand their business for some time. Following the insolvency of Ilke Homes, the 275,000... Read More
Huddersfield and Dewsbury Incorporated Law Society Raises £2137 for Andy's Man Club
The Huddersfield and Dewsbury Incorporated Law Society is proud to announce that it has successfully raised £2137 in support of Andy's Man Club, a vital charity dedicated to men's mental health. The funds were collected over a twelve-month period during Jamie Humpheson's 2023/2024 tenure as President of the Law... Read More