Catalyst Law

03/09/2026

The Competition & Markets Authority has launched three new consumer protection investigations into businesses over concerns that customers were not shown the total price upfront when buying train tickets, holidays and driving lessons.

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/trainline-virgin-atlantic-and-red-driving-school-investigated-for-drip-pricing

Investigations into online pricing practices are part of CMA’s work to help ease cost of living pressures.

25/08/2026

Got a new contract landing on your desk? Before you sign on the dotted line, taking a few minutes to review the details can save you major headaches down the road.

Whether you're accepting a job offer, partnering with a new supplier for your business, or creating T&Cs for your start-up, knowing what to look out for in a draft agreement can make all the difference.

Our guide explains five critical areas that you should scrutinise before putting pen to paper.

https://www.catalystlaw.co.uk/blog/how-to-conduct-a-contract-review

Many people struggle when asked to review an agreement that has been presented to them. So how can you review a contract like a lawyer?

09/08/2026

We all appreciate robust consumer rights, but when compliance costs get too high, those extra expenses can end up on our receipts.

Are some overly strict regulations actually doing shoppers more harm than good?

https://www.am-online.com/features-landing/executive-view-do-consumers-have-too-many-rights

Prof Jim Saker, president of the Institute of the Motor Industry, argues that the Consumer Rights Act must reflect the complexity of software-driven vehicles

06/08/2026

Ever wondered if a contract you signed (or even a verbal agreement you made) is actually legally binding?

From hidden fees and unfair terms to confusing fine print, unenforceable contracts can leave everyday consumers and business owners caught out if things go wrong.

Understanding what makes an agreement legally valid helps protect your position and keeps you from getting locked into undesirable terms.

Our quick guide breaks down common traps like penalty clauses, verbal promises, and unfair contract terms so you know where you stand before signing.

https://www.catalystlaw.co.uk/blog/how-to-avoid-unenforceable-contracts-and-agreements

Could your business agreements be unenforceable? Find out the kind of contract terms that may not hold up in court.

17/06/2026

From flexible working requests and unplanned absences, to social media conduct and harassment risks, the World Cup raises a wide range of potential HR issues for employers.

https://hrzone.com/hrs-game-plan-for-the-world-cup-2026/

Employment lawyer Emma O’Connor advises on how to manage the workplace impact of the biggest World Cup yet.

05/06/2026

Under consumer law, businesses must show all unavoidable charges in the headline price from the outset, enabling people to make informed choices.

Adding extra charges later in the process (a practice known as drip pricing) can result in consumers being misled into choosing a service or product for its low price, only for this to be upped when they finally get to the checkout.

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/cma-orders-the-aa-and-bsm-driving-schools-to-refund-learner-drivers-over-drip-pricing

The AA Driving School and BSM Driving School – both of which are owned by the AA – must refund more than 80,000 customers and pay a fine of £4.2 million.

12/05/2026

Not one but two surprise deliveries over the last few weeks!

Huge thanks to our clients for the lovely hamper, chocolates and kind words. We love what we do, but the appreciation makes it all the more rewarding.

24/04/2026

A poll of 2,000 over-50s found 22% have provided their children with large sums of money in the past 5 years.

Of these 32% stepped in during the financial squeeze to help cover rising bills, providing an average of £1,972.

18% helped their kids onto the property ladder, the average handout totalled over £30,000.

https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/newsbirmingham/bank-of-mum-and-dad-giving-out-2000-to-help-kids-with-cost-of-living-crisis/ar-AA1Qa0nP

A poll of 2,000 over-50s found 22% have gifted their children a large sum of money in the past five years, according to SunLife.