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.

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

In this episode, we are joined by Annaliese Barber, a Director at Richard Reed, qualified solicitor, Notary Public, and Head of the firm's Wills, Trusts, Probate & Court of Protection Department. We're also delighted to welcome Kay Carrick, Development Team Manager at St Cuthbert's Hospice, who oversees fundraising and legacy giving.

Today, we're exploring wills and the important role of charitable giving. We'll look at how leaving a gift to charity in your will can create a lasting legacy while potentially reducing inheritance tax. Kay shares the real impact these gifts have on St Cuthbert's Hospice and the community it serves.

In this episode, we'll cover:

• Why having a will is essential and what happens without one

• Types of gifts you can leave to charity in your will

• How charitable giving can reduce inheritance tax

• The impact of legacy gifts on St Cuthbert's Hospice

• Common misconceptions about charitable giving

• Practical steps for including a charity in your will

• How to start conversations about wills and end-of-life planning

Tune in to learn how a well-planned will can protect your loved ones while supporting causes close to your heart.

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 Matthew Lockey and Debra Taylor from the Family Law team at Richard Reed Solicitors for an insightful discussion on the legal differences between cohabiting and married couples.

With more couples choosing to live together without tying the knot, it’s important to understand the legal implications of each path. What rights do you really have if you're not married? What should you be thinking about when it comes to finances, children, or even separation?

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

• The truth about “common-law marriage”, and why it’s a myth

• Key legal differences between marriage and cohabitation

• Protections and agreements you can put in place as a cohabiting couple

• What happens when children are involved

• The legal discussions and difficulties around changing cohabitation law

• How assets are treated depending on your relationship status

If you're living with your partner, or thinking about it, this episode is essential listening to help you understand your legal position and protect your future.

Get in touch:

Richard Reed Solicitors: Website: https://richardreed.co.uk/ Phone: 0191 567 0465 Email: info@richardreed.co.uk

Connect: Sarah Reid: LinkedIn Matthew Lockey: Matthew.lockey@richardreed.co.uk

Debra Taylor: debra.taylor@richardreed.co.uk

References:

Resolution: Cohabitation

Martin Lewis Article: Is being married financially worth it?