Security officer called ‘mummy’ by colleagues awarded £69k compensation
March 23rd 2026A female security officer who was repeatedly called “mummy” by male colleagues and subjected to sexist and racist behaviour at work has been awarded almost £69,000 in compensation by an employment tribunal. Jennifer Cafferky, Associate Solicitor in our employment team, reports on this recent case. The tribunal found that the woman, identified only as CL, was harassed on grounds of sex and age while working as a security officer for Mitie…
Investing in future talent – 10th trainee joins top law firm
March 17th 2026Prominent law firm Cartmell Shepherd is continuing to grow its team with the appointment of a new trainee solicitor – the 10th individual to receive their backing. Tom Miller has joined the agricultural property team based at Rosehill in Carlisle. He was born and bred in the city, attended Nelson Thomlinson School, and comes from a farming family so his first role in the company’s team is perfectly placed. “I’ve…
Landlord loses possession claim after failing to prove HMO exemption
March 10th 2026The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 is coming soon, with the first phase commencing from 1st May 2026, which includes the abolishment of section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions. Landlords will still be able to serve, and rely on, a section 21 notice up to the end of April. However, landlords should bear in mind that it is more important than ever to get things right to ensure any section 21 notice…
Give to Gain: Supporting Women to Thrive at Cartmells
March 9th 2026On International Women’s Day, Managing Director Joanne Stronach reflects on the barriers facing women in the legal industry and how Cartmell Shepherd ensures women across the firm feel supported, valued and able to thrive. It’s been fantastic to see so many businesses showing their support for International Women’s Day again this year, with some wonderful events happening locally championing women in business. I had the pleasure of joining a panel…
Local lawyers help steer Oak Tree Animals’ Charity into new era
March 5th 2026Two local lawyers are helping shape the future of animal welfare in Cumbria as volunteer trustees at Oak Tree Animals’ Charity. Rob Winder and Rebecca Armstrong are both Senior Associates at Cartmell Shepherd Solicitors, leading the firm’s Property Litigation and Will and Inheritance Disputes teams respectively. Both animal lovers, Rob and Rebecca jumped at the opportunity to become trustees at Oak Tree, with Rebecca joining two years ago and Rob…
Is your Will still right for you?
March 4th 2026This Update Your Will Week (2nd – 8th March 2026), we are proud to support The Association of Lifetime Lawyers in highlighting the importance of not only making a Will, but also reviewing and updating it whenever personal circumstances change. A Will is far more than just a legal document. It captures your wishes, protects your loved ones, and safeguards the legacy you want to leave behind. Modern families are…
High Court injunction breaks deadlock between opposing directors
February 17th 2026The High Court has intervened to break a boardroom stalemate between two equal blocs of directors and shareholders, ordering a company to circulate written resolutions that could lead to the appointment of an independent director. Mark Aspin Director and Head of Dispute Resolution reports on this recent case. The case arose from a long-running deadlock at ESMS Global Ltd, where Simon and Jennifer Webster on one side and Rajesh and Sarita Sood on…
New appointment strengthens Cartmell Shepherd’s Wills, Probate and Inheritance team
February 11th 2026Cartmell Shepherd Solicitors has expanded its Wills, Probate and Inheritance Department with the appointment of a new Associate Solicitor. James Clark has joined the company’s Penrith office, bringing his expertise from the health and community sectors. James trained and worked for respected legal firms in Carlisle and Hexham before joining Cartmell Shepherd. In advance of training in law with the Open University and completing a Masters at Northumbria University, James…
Homeowners on ‘fleecehold’ estates to get protection against unfair charges
February 9th 2026Homeowners on what have become known as ‘fleecehold’ estates are to get more protection against excessive charges for the upkeep of roads, green spaces and other shared communal areas. Ashley Shepard, Solicitor Apprentice in our conveyancing team, provides an update. The government says the current system is unfair and can put people at risk of losing access to their home for a debt as low as £100 or see a lease imposed on…
How will the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 impact landlords?
January 30th 2026The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 introduces the biggest changes to the private rented sector in decades. Coming into force on1st May 2026, the legislation will affect how tenancies operate, how rent is reviewed and how landlords meet new compliance standards. Understanding the key changes early will help landlords prepare, protect rental income and avoid penalties. What’s changing? From ending fixed term tenancies to new rules for tenants with children and…
