In this episode, Sarah Reid is joined by Annaliese Barber, Director and Head of Richard Reed Solicitors’ Wills, Trusts, Probate and Court of Protection Department, and Helena Dar, Wills, Trusts and Probate Solicitor at Richard Reed Solicitors.

Together, they cut through the jargon and walk through what actually happens when someone dies, what the law requires, and how to navigate the process without making costly mistakes.

Here's what we'll cover in this episode:

• What probate is and when you actually need it.

• Who needs to apply and what the process involves.

• Understanding intestacy: what happens when someone dies without a will.

• The role of executors and administrators, and what's expected of them.

• Common mistakes families make and how to avoid them.

• When to seek legal advice and why getting it early can save time and money.

This episode is essential listening for anyone who has recently lost a loved one, is helping a family member through the process, or simply wants to understand what will happen to their estate and how to make things as straightforward as possible for the people they leave behind.

Get in touch:

Website: https://richardreed.co.uk/

Phone: 0191 567 0465

Email: info@richardreed.co.uk

Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed, the podcast that simplifies the law and explores how it affects our daily lives. 

In this episode, Sarah Reid is joined by Employment Law & Dispute Resolution Associate Solicitor Kat Moody and Founder and CEO of Inspired HR, Nikki Masterman. 

Together, they break down the Employment Rights Act 2025 and its staged rollout across 2026 and 2027 – one of the biggest shake‑ups in UK employment law in decades.

They explain what’s changing, when it takes effect, and what employers, especially small and medium‑sized businesses, need to be doing now to stay compliant, manage costs and reduce their risk.

Here’s what we’ll cover in this episode:

• National minimum wage increases and common compliance pitfalls.

• Major reforms to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP), including day‑one rights and removal of the lower earnings limit.

• New day‑one rights for paternity and parental leave.

• Protecting staff and managing risk.

• The creation of the Fair Work Agency and what it could mean for inspections and enforcement.

• Unfair dismissal protection after six months’ service.

• What employers should be doing now.

This episode is essential listening for employers, HR professionals and employees who want a clear, practical guide to how the new Employment Rights Act will affect workplaces and how to get prepared in good time.

Get in touch:

Website: https://richardreed.co.uk/

Phone: 0191 567 0465

Email: info@richardreed.co.uk

Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed, the podcast that simplifies the law and explores how it affects our daily lives.

In this important and sensitive episode, we’re raising awareness of domestic abuse, looking at what it really means, the legal protections available, and how community support can help people take those first steps towards safety and recovery.

We’re joined by Matthew Lockey, Associate Solicitor at Richard Reed Solicitors, and Julie Robinson, Service Manager at Impact Family Services, who have come together to highlight how legal and emotional support can work hand in hand to make a difference.

In this episode, we’ll cover:

• What domestic abuse really means and how it can take many forms
• Common misconceptions and why victims may struggle to seek help
• Legal protections available, including injunctions and non-molestation orders
• How Impact Family Services supports individuals and families beyond the legal process
• How legal and support services can collaborate to help survivors rebuild their lives

This episode is a reminder that domestic abuse can affect anyone, but no one has to face it alone.

If any of the topics discussed in this episode affect you, please reach out for support using the resources below.

Get in touch:

Richard Reed Solicitors

0191 567 0465 | info@richardreed.co.uk | Impact Family Services

Connect:

Matthew Lockey: LinkedIn

Julie Robinson: LinkedIn

Resources:

• National Domestic Abuse Helpline (24/7) 0808 2000 247
• National Centre for Domestic Violence (NCDV): Free legal help with emergency injunctions and protection orders.
• Women’s Aid Information, support, and access to local services.
• Respect Support for those wanting to change abusive behaviour and professionals working with perpetrators.
• HollieGuard: – Personal safety app that alerts trusted contacts if you’re in danger.
• Clare’s Law: Check if a partner has a history of abuse.
• Connected Families CIC: Community support and advocacy for families affected by abuse.
• Wearside Women in Need (WWiN): Refuge, advice, and support for women and children in Sunderland.
• Galop: LGBTQ+ anti-abuse charity providing confidential support.