Ridley & Hall incorporating Newman & Bond Solicitors - Barnsley

05/06/2026

There’s been some really important news this week about the rights of unmarried couples 👇

For years, family lawyers have been saying that the law simply hasn’t kept up with modern relationships - and we’re finally seeing steps towards change.

Our family Partner and Solicitor, Emma Hopkins Jones has written a short blog explaining what’s been announced and why it matters, particularly for women and children who are often the most affected when cohabiting relationships break down.

This is something she has been passionate about for a long time, both through her work with Resolution's Cohabitation Committee and contributing to national conversations around reform.

If you’re living with a partner (or supporting someone who is), it’s really worth understanding where the law currently stands - and what might be changing.

💬 You can read the full blog here:

Today has brought a significant and long awaited development in family law. The Ministry of Justice has unveiled proposals to strengthen the legal rights of unmarried couples, acknowledging what family lawyers have been saying for many years: the law has not kept pace with modern relationships.

04/06/2026

Thank you to Dilly’s Delights for the beautiful cupcakes at our Empowering Women launch event in Barnsley yesterday.

They were a real hit with our guests and such a lovely addition to the day. We really appreciate your support and contribution to making the event a success.

04/06/2026

What an incredible day! ✨

Our Family law team were proud to host their Empowering Women Through Divorce launch event at The Cooper Gallery in Barnsley yesterday.

The event brought together an inspiring group of professionals, and supporters who share the same common goal: helping women navigate separation with clarity, confidence, and choice through the right support.

The room was filled with meaningful conversations, new connections, and a genuine commitment to collaboration. Together, we’re building a network that empowers women to move forward positively and access the guidance they need at every stage of their journey.

Special thanks to our wonderful guest speakers: Kathryn Mumby and Kathryn Andrassy of Andrassy & Partners and Jayne Taylor Coaching

And thank you to everyone who joined us and contributed to such an uplifting and impactful event. This is just the beginning. 💚💙🩷

01/06/2026

⏳ Did you know executors often have a full year before beneficiaries can expect to receive their inheritance?

This is known as the “executor’s year” and it plays an important role in estate administration. But what does it actually mean for beneficiaries and what should you expect during that time?

Our latest blog breaks down:
• What the executor’s year is
• Why delays can happen
• When concerns may be justified
• What beneficiaries can do if they are worried

If you are waiting on an estate or want to better understand the process, this is a must-read.

👉 Read the full blog here: https://ridleyandhall.co.uk/the-golden-year-for-executors-what-beneficiaries-need-to-know/

📩 Get in touch with our team if you need advice or reassurance on 0800 860 62 65 or by email on [email protected]

Are you a beneficiary who is concerned about a lack of progress in relation to a loved one’s estate? Perhaps months have passed since the funeral, you have heard very little from the executors, and you are beginning to wonder whether the delay is normal or whether something is wrong.

27/05/2026

⏰ Only ONE WEEK to go until the Ridley & Hall Empowering Women Launch comes to Barnsley!

📍 1pm | 3rd June | The Cooper Gallery, Barnsley

There are still a few tickets available, so don’t miss your chance to join us.

Join us in a safe, supportive space designed to empower women through Clarity, Confidence & Choice. This event is an opportunity to share experiences, make connections, and collaborate with others who may be navigating divorce or separation.

Whether it’s for you or someone you know, you’ll be welcomed into an encouraging environment focused on support, understanding, and moving forward positively. 💜

We can’t wait to welcome you.💙🩷💚

🎟️ Click the link to book your ticket:

27/05/2026

We’ve been asked… nudged… and in some cases firmly reminded… so we’re delighted to say:

Barnsley Business Social is BACK!

To celebrate the return of summer (and to give us all an excuse to step away from our desks), we’re bringing local business leaders and organisations together once again for a relaxed, informal get together. No fuss, no speeches, just good people and great conversation.

📅 Friday 19th June 2026
📍 Falco Lounge, Barnsley
⏰ 3:00pm – 5:00pm

Expect:
The usual fantastic crowd of local professionals
Plenty of opportunity to catch up and make new connections

And yes… the infamous tapas will be making an appearance

🎟️ Book your place here:
https://www.trybooking.com/uk/GNGF

All proceeds will be going to Barnsley Hospice, helping raise vital funds for an incredible local cause.

If you can, please get this one in your diary as soon as possible — not just so you don’t miss out, but to help keep our event organiser’s anxiety levels nicely under control!

At its heart, this is what it’s all about: bringing great local people together to build a stronger business community — whilst supporting the Hospice.

We’d love to see you there.

Barnsley Business Social Team
Ridley & Hall incorporating Newman & Bond Solicitors - Barnsley - J W Insurance - Hallcroft

The return of the monthly social gathering on the 3rd Friday of the month for business owners, professionals and managers across the Barnsley area...

26/05/2026

⚠️ Applying for a UK spouse or partner visa in 2026?

Even strong applications can be refused if the evidence is not prepared correctly.

Common issues we see include:
❌ Financial documents that do not match
❌ Not enough proof of your relationship
❌ Inconsistencies across your application

In our latest blog, we explain exactly what you need and what to avoid, including a clear evidence checklist to help you get it right first time.

👉 Read the full guide: https://ridleyandhall.co.uk/uk-spouse-partner-visa-requirements-2026-evidence-checklist-common-refusal-reasons/

If you need support with your application, our Immigration team is here to help.

Yorkshire solicitors. Nationally renowned, client-focused. Legal 500 recommended. 24/7 free live chat. Services: Divorce, Children, Wills, Probate, Property, Inheritance Disputes.

25/05/2026

🌼 May Bank Holiday notice 🌼
Our offices will be closed today, Monday 25th May.

We hope everyone enjoys the bank holiday and makes the most of the spring break.
We will be back and ready to help from Tuesday.

21/05/2026

The Government has recently announced further support for families navigating separation, including extending the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme and introducing new online tools to assist parents in making decisions about their children.

The voucher scheme now continues to offer up to £500 towards the cost of mediation, reinforcing the growing focus on Non-Court Dispute Resolution helping families resolve issues without the stress, delay and cost of court proceedings.

Mediation can be a really effective option: it’s often quicker, less confrontational and more cost-effective, while still allowing you to get independent legal advice alongside the process.

Alongside this, new digital tools including the Child Arrangement Planner are now available to help parents explore and consider practical arrangements for their children. These tools are a helpful starting point, but they can’t replace tailored legal advice. That’s where we come in.

At Ridley & Hall’s Family Team, we work alongside these resources to make sure you feel fully supported:

1. Clear advice on your options from the outset
2. Guidance on what arrangements are realistic and in your child’s best interests
3. Support through mediation and negotiations
4. Strong representation if court becomes necessary

Our priority is helping you achieve the best outcome for you and your children, in the least stressful way possible. If you’re separating or struggling to agree arrangements, don’t wait for things to escalate. Contact Ridley & Hall’s Family Team today for clear, practical advice and support from the very beginning.

If you need advice, please contact us on 0800 860 62 65 or by email at [email protected]

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/families-spared-time-and-money-during-separation-thanks-to-government-action

Measures will help separating families save cash and settle childcare issues more easily.

20/05/2026

Empowering Women Through Divorce Campaign Launch is coming to Barnsley ✨💙🩷💚

Join us for the launch of our Empowering Women Through Divorce campaign: a supportive, inspiring event created to help women rebuild confidence, rediscover purpose, and connect with others who understand the journey.

Built around the principles of Clarity. Confidence. Choice. This event is designed to help women move forward, feeling informed, empowered, and supported.

Whether you’re:
💙 Recently separated
🩷 Years into rebuilding your life
💚 Supporting a friend or loved one
💙 Navigating co-parenting, healing, finances, or self-discovery

…you are welcome here.

This event brings together women from all walks of life to share encouragement, practical support, honest conversations, and empowerment without judgment.

3rd June 2026
At The Cooper Gallery, Barnsley
1pm

🎟 Free tickets in the link below - reserve yours today and invite another woman who may need this space.

Together, we rise stronger.
Together, we heal.
Together, we empower.

By Ridley & Hall Solicitors - Empowering Women