Coodes Solicitors

18/06/2026

What happens to your divorce settlement if your ex-partner dies?

It's not something most people think about. But if financial matters haven't been resolved when your ex-spouse dies, you may still have rights under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975.

A recent court case involving Kars v Brown shows that getting a decree absolute doesn't end your financial claims. Those claims stay open until a court makes a final financial order.

If you're going through divorce and things are still being sorted out, understanding your position is important. There are strict time limits to bring a claim - usually within six months of probate being granted.

If you're concerned about your situation, early legal advice is worth getting.

Read the full blog by Jodie Walmsley: https://coodes.co.uk/2026/06/what-happens-if-your-former-spouse-dies-before-a-financial-settlement-is-reached/

12/06/2026

This time last week we were soaking in the atmosphere at the Royal Cornwall Show!

Although the weather cut this year's show short, we loved being part of the Thursday and Friday chatting to new and familiar faces at the showground.

An early start on the Thursday allowed us to deliver bacon rolls to the cattle exhibitors, giving them a good start to the day - all thanks to Philip Warren Butchers .

A real highlight was watching Lucy Poole from our Wills and Probate team take part in the Grand Parade, showcasing cattle, sheep and goats. A great representation of the rural community we serve and the farming expertise within our team, with other members exhibiting and competing in the main ring too.

We also celebrated 25 years of Addington Fund on Friday afternoon with fizz and canapés, which was a pleasure to sponsor.

Thanks to everyone who stopped by our stand and to the Royal Cornwall Show for hosting one of the best events in Cornwall.

12/06/2026

Thinking about gifting a property to your children? It can make financial sense, but there's more to consider than many parents expect.

Before making any decisions, you must ask yourself these key questions: Can you genuinely afford to give it away? What happens if your circumstances change? Have your Wills been updated? And what about capital gains tax, inheritance tax, and the risks of divorce or bankruptcy?

An outright gift is permanent. Once the property transfers, there's no straightforward way of reversing that decision.

For families with concerns about these risks, settling a property into a trust can offer a more controlled alternative, protecting against potential difficulties while still passing on wealth to the next generation.

Sarah Cornish shares more on property gifting here: https://coodes.co.uk/2026/06/passing-on-property-what-to-consider-before-gifting-to-the-next-generation/

11/06/2026

A right of way used for years can still be legally vulnerable if it was never formally recorded. When a new neighbour or developer challenges it, the consequences can be serious.

Access rights can arise through express recording in deeds, long use, or by implication. Many disputes occur when a property changes hands and the new owner takes a different view.

Evidence – like witness statements, historic maps and records - are crucial in these disputes.

Most can be resolved through negotiation and mediation once both sides understand the legal position, and a formally drafted deed of easement can put an informal arrangement onto a permanent legal footing.

If you are buying a property and access is unclear, get answers before exchange, not after completion.

Read the full blog by Darren Higginson: https://coodes.co.uk/2026/06/rights-of-way-disputes-when-long-established-access-rights-are-suddenly-challenged/

10/06/2026

Don't miss the St Austell Festival of Children's Literature this Saturday.

The town will be filled with author and illustrator events where children can meet the creators of their favourite books.

Tickets are just £1 per event, so it's a great day out for the whole family.

The festival is run entirely by volunteers who are passionate about encouraging children to read and changing lives through literature.

As sponsors, we're proud to support their mission. For the event details, see here: https://staustellfestivalofchildrensliterature.com/

08/06/2026

We have a great opportunity for someone looking to start their career in IT.

We are recruiting an Apprentice IT Support to join our IT team in Truro and help support colleagues across our offices.

Full training and mentoring will be provided - all you need is a genuine interest in IT, good communication skills and a positive work attitude.

To apply or find out more, see here: https://careers.coodes.co.uk/job/882283

06/06/2026

We are super proud of our Evie Groves today for representing Cornwall at Twickenham in the women’s rugby final and WINNING, beating Durham 46-27.

Well done to her and the whole team!

Cornwall Women secure historic Twickenham victory https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/articles/c1ly5g9mqg6o.

https://coodes.co.uk/profile/evie-groves/

Cornwall Women beat Durham 46-27 to win their first-ever match at Twickenham in the County Championship.

05/06/2026

Our very own Lucy Poole in the main ring in the Grand Parade of cattle sheep and goats Royal Cornwall Show.

04/06/2026

Come and see us on our stand Royal Cornwall Show by the main ring.
Our fabulous prize draw is looking great for all those who sign up to our newsletter https://coodes.co.uk/about-us/newsletter-subscription/

03/06/2026

Promotions across Coodes following an outstanding year

Five legal professionals have achieved Partner status:

Hayley Gaffney (Dispute Resolution)
Laura Noble (Residential Property)
Ben Sidgwick (Dispute Resolution)
Kerry Tresidder (Residential Property)
David Usher (Personal Injury)

We have also named our first cohort of Senior Associates:

Michelle Hawkins (Residential Property)
Jack Peart (Corporate & Commercial)
Kathryn Shaw FCILEx (Residential Property)
Laura Vanstone (Residential Property)
Shelley Workman (Family)

Seven legal professionals have been promoted to Associate:

Aimee Edwards (Wills & Probate)
John Holdsworth (Court of Protection)
Karen Jones (Residential Property)
Sharon Parsons (Clinical Negligence)
Lianne Priest (Residential Property)
Lucy Poole (Wills & Probate)
Heidi Start (Residential Property)

These promotions reflect the culture and ambition we have built across all departments and throughout every level of the firm. This is a testament to the talent and dedication of our people, and we congratulate each and every one of you who has been promoted.

Read the full release here: https://coodes.co.uk/2026/06/coodes-announces-raft-of-promotions-following-an-outstanding-year/