The Legal Compass (Previously Legally Speaking)

Settlement Agreements Explained: What Every Employee Should Know Before Signing

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 07:00:00 +0100

Many employees will encounter a settlement agreement at some stage during their career, often when facing redundancy, a workplace dispute, or a negotiated exit from their employer.

In the latest episode of The Legal Compass, Employment Solicitor Sanjay Rall joins Mike Massen to explain what settlement agreements are, how they work, and why taking independent legal advice is essential before signing.

The discussion covers:

What settlement agreements are and when they are used
The rights employees may be giving up
Common misconceptions surrounding settlement agreements
Potential risks hidden within poorly drafted agreements
How legal advice can improve both financial and non-financial terms
What employees should do immediately after receiving an agreement

The key message is simple: settlement agreements are far more than an administrative formality. They are legally binding documents with potentially significant implications.

Child Arrangements Explained: The New Pathfinder Process

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 09:00:00 +0100

In this episode of The Legal Compass, Mike Massen is joined by family law solicitor Jess Yates to discuss child arrangements following separation and the changes brought about by the Pathfinder approach.

Jess explains what child arrangements involve, why the legal system has moved away from outdated terms such as "custody", and how the courts focus on what is in the child's best interests. The conversation explores when parents can resolve matters through mediation, when court intervention may be necessary, and the factors judges consider when making decisions under the Children Act 1989.

The episode also takes an in-depth look at the Pathfinder process, which is transforming private family law proceedings by gathering key information earlier, reducing delays, minimising conflict, and keeping children at the centre of decision-making. Mike and Jess discuss how the new approach benefits families, particularly those affected by safeguarding concerns or domestic abuse, and why seeking legal advice early can help parents understand their options.

Whether you're going through a separation or simply want to understand how child arrangements are decided, this episode provides practical guidance on navigating the process while prioritising the welfare of children.

Legally Speaking - Becoming an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT)

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 12:47:48 +0000

In this episode we are joined by Managing Director of Ison Harrison Solicitors, Jonathan Wearing, along with fellow Director Richard Coulthard to discuss the process of becoming an EOT - a process that Ison Harrison completed in January 2022. The discussion will cover themes such as the direct benefits to employees and what they can expect, the potential challenges a business may be faced when undergoing the process and how this compares with other employee share schemes.

Legally Speaking - Pressure Sore Claims

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 11:05:45 +0000

In this episode we are joined by Victoria Holland - experienced Paralegal at Ison Harrison Solicitors - to gain some insight into what pressure sores/ulcers are and how they develop. Unfortunately, through substandard care in hospitals and care homes, people can develop pressure sores (particularly those with poor mobility) which can be extremely painful and can lead to further health problems through infection. Some areas covered in this episode include what preventative measures should be taken? What are patient risk factors in developing a pressure sore, and what are the different types of pressure sores?

Legally Speaking - Cancer misdiagnosis and delay in diagnosis

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 12:01:37 +0000

It's well documented about the importance of an early diagnosis of serious conditions such as cancer, but what happens if this is delayed due to negligence?

It may be that the delay in diagnosing your condition is detrimental to the prospects of successful treatment or that more invasive treatment is now required. In this Podcast, Ami Law, Solicitor at Ison Harrison Solicitors provides insight into the details and process of a prospective compensation claim.

Legally Speaking - Buying and Selling Businesses

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 15:51:26 +0100

In uncertain times some people might not have a choice of whether to sell their business or not, even if you do, you need to make sure you are protected and get the best available price. Conversely, now could be the best time to consider buying a business if you have access to the finance. In this episode Richard Coulthard - Partner and Head of Corporate Law at Ison Harrison Solicitors - offers tips and advice on how to come out on top...whichever side of the coin you are on.

Legally Speaking - Birth Injury

Fri, 11 Jun 2021 17:35:24 +0100

In this episode we are joined by James Thompson - Head of Clinical Negligence for Ison Harrison Solicitors - to gain an insight and an overview of where parents and their children stand legally in the event of a traumatic and injurious event through the result of negligence. Some areas covered in this episode include what is classed as a birth injury in law and what time limits are there on bringing a case to court? What can be claimed for and whether legal aid is available? And even if your child does not yet have a diagnosis, can you still bring a claim?