Advertise on podcast: Clarkslegal Law Bites

Data breaches can have serious legal, financial and reputational consequences for organisations. In this episode of Data Protection Matters, Harry Berryman and Zahra Navarro, members of the Data Protection Team, discuss recent ICO enforcement action, common causes of data breaches, and the practical steps organisations should take to respond effectively when incidents occur. Through real-world examples and practical insights, they explore how businesses can strengthen their data protection compliance and reduce regulatory risk. This episode covers: Key lessons from recent ICO enforcement actionCommon causes of data breaches, including human error, insider misconduct and cyber incidentsBest practice for responding to data breaches and reporting obligationsPractical steps organisations can take to strengthen data protection complianceWhether you're looking to improve your organisation's data protection framework or understand how to respond when a breach occurs, this episode provides valuable practical guidance. If you have any questions about data protection compliance, data breaches or ICO investigations, please get in touch with our Data Protection Team.

This podcast marks the first episode in Clarkslegal’s five-part Shareholders’ Agreement miniseries, providing a practical introduction to one of the most important documents for business owners and investors. Emma Docking and Jonathan Hayes, Senior Solicitors in Clarkslegal’s Corporate team, answer some of the most frequently asked questions they receive from clients, including what a shareholders’ agreement is, why it is used alongside articles of association, and the risks businesses may face without one in place. The discussion highlights how a well-drafted shareholders’ agreement can provide clarity, protect shareholder interests, and help businesses avoid costly disputes in the future. In this episode, they cover: What a shareholders’ agreement is and why it mattersThe differences between a shareholders’ agreement and articles of associationHow these agreements can protect both majority and minority shareholdersCommon issues that can arise when no shareholders’ agreement is in placeThe role of share transfer restrictions, pre-emption rights and dispute resolution mechanismsContact our shareholder agreement experts If you have questions about shareholders’ agreements or need advice tailored to your business, contact our experienced lawyers today to discuss how we can help protect your interests and strengthen your company’s governance. A Business Essential Guide For more information and to access our comprehensive guide, click here.  Next episode: ‘Key Provisions found in a Shareholders’ Agreement’

Get ahead of major immigration regulatory changes set to take effect in 2026. In this podcast, immigration solicitors Ruth Karimatsenga and Monica Mastropasqua break down the key updates employers, HR teams, and sponsor licence holders need to prepare for now, including the introduction of new Sponsorship Management System (SMS) security requirements and major reforms to the UK’s right to work checking regime. This episode covers: The introduction of mandatory multi-factor authentication (MFA) for Sponsorship Management System users from 1 September 2026Updates to the right to work scheme effective 1 October 2026, including implications for contractors, subcontractors, and agency workersPractical compliance steps employers, HR teams, and sponsors should take immediatelyThe expanding use of digital right to work checks and tips to avoid common compliance pitfallsKey considerations for individuals working under different visa categories and flexible working arrangementsWhether you’re new to the sponsor system or a seasoned HR professional, this podcast will help you understand what these changes mean for your organisation and ensure your processes are ready before the September and October 2026 deadlines. For questions about sponsor licence compliance, right to work checks, or UK immigration law, contact our Immigration team for expert advice.

In this third episode of our Quarterly Insights podcast series from the Corporate and Commercial team at Clarkslegal, we bring you concise overviews and practical perspectives on the most topical issues and significant legal developments our team has explored in the past three months. Our goal is to help business owners, directors, and professionals navigate the latest trends and challenges shaping the corporate and commercial landscape. In this episode, Stuart Mullins, Partner in the Corporate and Commercial team, is joined by Jonathan Hayes, Senior Solicitor.  Together, they’ll discuss: Community Interest Companies (CICs) – What they are, why they're gaining popularity, and how they can benefit not-for-profit and charitable ventures.Company Registers – The importance of keeping accurate records, key risks for directors, and good governance practices.Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) in Business Sales – How NDAs protect confidential information and what to consider when drafting them.Early Legal Preparation for Business Exits – Why preparing early helps smooth the path for future business sales or investments.Business Exit Readiness Review – An introduction to Clarkslegal’s free review service to help clients prepare for a successful exit.If you’d like to discuss any of the topics covered in this episode, please contact Stuart Mullins or Jonathan Hayes, who will be happy to assist you. Articles featured in this episode: Community Interest Companies – What do you need to know? Is your Company’s Register of Members accurate? The hidden risks of getting it wrong Business sales and NDAs: Creating a safe space to open up your business Exit Readiness Consultation: Prepare your business for a successful sale

Join us for the final episode of our ICC Arbitration Rules 2026 series as Jack Hobbs, Associate at Clarkslegal, and Christopher Howitt, Barrister at Three Stone, explore the abolition of mandatory Terms of Reference. They discuss what this significant change means for arbitration practitioners, as well as its implications for the future of arbitration. In this episode, they cover: The reasons behind removing Terms of Reference from the ICC RulesHow this change affects case management and procedurePractical tips for preparing cases under the new rulesConsiderations for updating dispute resolution clauses in contractsPotential challenges for enforcement of awardsThe emerging role of AI in arbitration and future trendsFor more information or to discuss any of the topics from this episode, please contact Jack Hobbs or Christopher Howitt, who would be delighted to assist you. ICC Arbitration Rules 2026 Podcast Series Episode 1: Overview of the new ICC Arbitration Rules: Key changesEpisode 2: Accelerating arbitration: Expedited procedures and key changes in the new ICC RulesEpisode 3: ICC Arbitration Rules 2026 overhaul: The end of Terms of Reference and future trends

Join us for episode 2 of our arbitration podcast series, where Jack Hobbs, Associate at Clarkslegal, and Christopher Howitt, Barrister at Three Stone, discuss the key changes in the new ICC Arbitration Rules 2026. This episode explores how the latest expedited and highly expedited procedures are reshaping the landscape of dispute resolution. Key topics discussed include: A clear overview of expedited and highly expedited proceduresInsights into the new early determination mechanismPractical implications for parties and practitionersExpert commentary from leading arbitration professionalsStay tuned for next episode, where we’ll focus on practical takeaways and actionable advice for practitioners navigating these new rules in their day-to-day work. For more information or to discuss any of the topics from this episode, please contact Jack Hobbs or Christopher Howitt, who would be delighted to assist you.

Welcome to the first episode of our special three-part podcast series exploring the 2026 ICC Arbitration Rules. Join Jack Hobbs, Associate at Clarkslegal, and Christopher Howitt, Barrister at Three Stone, as they break down the most significant reforms to one of the world’s leading sets of arbitration rules. Discover expert insights into how these changes are set to make arbitration more efficient, flexible, and transparent and what they mean for practitioners, clients, and the future of international dispute resolution. Key topics discussed include: The ICC’s evolving role in global arbitration Abolition of mandatory terms of reference Expanded expedited procedures, including the new highly expedited process Early determination tools for swift dismissal of weak claims or defences Enhanced emergency arbitrator powers, including preliminary and ex parte orders Stronger duties of independence, impartiality, and transparency for arbitrators and tribunal secretaries Embracing digitalisation: electronic communication, signatures, and awards Broader improvements in case management and efficiencyStay tuned for the next episodes, where we take a closer look at expedited procedures and practical takeaways for practitioners. For more information or to discuss any of the topics from this episode, please contact Jack Hobbs or Christopher Howitt, who would be delighted to assist you.

Join immigration experts Ruth Karimatsenga and Monica Mastropasqua for an in-depth podcast discussion on sponsor licence compliance in 2026. As government scrutiny intensifies and the Home Office raises expectations for sponsor organisations, staying informed about the changing compliance landscape is critical. In this episode, you’ll learn about: The Home Office’s increasingly tough stance on complianceThe growing frequency of auditsThe serious consequences of non-complianceWhether you’re new to the sponsor system or a seasoned HR professional, this episode highlights key updates, including stricter reporting requirements, enhanced record-keeping duties, and a sharper focus on the genuineness test for sponsored roles. Take the first step towards a robust compliance strategy for 2026. Don’t miss this essential episode. If you’d like to discuss any of the topics covered in this episode or learn more about Right to Work Audits and Right to Work Training, please contact Ruth or Monica, who will be happy to assist you.

Join us for the latest instalment of Clarkslegal’s Corporate and Commercial podcast series, where our expert team unpacks the most topical issues and significant developments from the past quarter. In this episode, Stuart Mullins, Corporate Partner, is joined by Senior Solicitor Emma Docking to discuss three key areas shaping today’s business landscape:   Business Growth and Exits in 2026 – Key strategies for SMEs to maximise enterprise value, including organic and inorganic growth, debt financing, private equity, and governance reforms.Enterprise Management Incentive (EMI) Schemes - A clear overview of EMI schemes, their tax benefits, eligibility criteria, and recent changes, with a focus on incentivising key employees and supporting growth.Drag Along and Tag Along Rights - Why these shareholder protections are essential for fair and successful company exits.If you’d like to discuss any of the topics covered in this episode, please contact Stuart Mullins or Emma Docking, who will be happy to assist you.  Articles featured in this episode: Positioning Your Business for Growth and Exit in 2026EMI Schemes – following the 2025 Autumn StatementDrag-Along & Tag-Along Rights: Why Every Company Needs Them

In episode four of our Shareholder Disputes podcast series, Corporate Partner Stuart Mullins and Dispute Resolution Associate Jack Hobbs confront the realities of shareholder fallouts and share practical strategies for managing these complex situations. Building on earlier episodes about dispute prevention, this episode covers: Immediate actions to take when a shareholder dispute arises The importance of reviewing shareholder agreements and company documents Key legal remedies, including unfair prejudice petitions and derivative claims How to safeguard business operations during a dispute The role of mediation and setting realistic expectationsWhether you’re a founder, investor, or director, you’ll find essential insights and actionable advice to help you navigate shareholder disputes and protect your company’s future. For guidance or to discuss any topics from this episode, please contact Stuart Mullins or Jack Hobbs. Shareholder Disputes Series Episode 1: Navigating the ChallengesEpisode 2: Planning for the WorstEpisode 3: Managing Shareholder Buyouts and ExitsEpisode 4: What to do when disputes arise

In this third and final episode of our Shareholder Disputes series, we move from prevention to resolution—exploring what happens when a founder’s exit becomes unavoidable. We break down the practical mechanisms for buying out departing shareholders. Join hosts Stuart Mullins, Corporate Partner at Clarkslegal, and Nicky Goringe Larkin, founder of Goringe Accountants, as they provide practical guidance on:  Navigating the funding challenges of share buyouts after disputesUnderstanding company share buybacks: legal requirements, financial constraints, and the importance of expert adviceExploring alternatives when buybacks aren’t viable, including personal funding by remaining shareholders and structuring payment terms and security to include Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs)Practical tips for ensuring smooth exits and maximising value for all parties This episode offers actionable insights for founders and shareholders navigating the complexities of business separation.  To discuss any of the topics from this episode, please reach out to Stuart Mullins or Nicky Larkin—they’re ready to help.

Are you a business owner? Don’t leave your company’s future to chance. In the second episode of our podcast series on shareholder disputes, we explore what happens when business partners disagree—and why a robust shareholders’ agreement is essential for protecting your business from costly conflicts and complicated breakups. Join hosts  Stuart Mullins, Corporate Partner at Clarkslegal, and Nicky Goringe Larkin, founder of Goringe Accountants, as they share practical insights, including: How a shareholders’ agreement protects your businessWhy mediation should be your first stepThe financial and emotional impact of dissolving a company through the courtsTips to secure your company’s future and goodwillWhether you’re launching a start-up or looking to reinforce an established company, this episode delivers advice every business owner should hear. To discuss any of the topics from this episode, please reach out to Stuart Mullins or Nicky Larkin—they’re ready to help.

Welcome to the first episode of our podcast series delving into the complex world of shareholder disputes. Hosted by Stuart Mullins, Corporate Partner at Clarkslegal, and joined by Nicky Goringe Larkin, founder of Goringe Accountants, this episode covers: Why shareholder disputes happenHow to recognise early warning signsPractical tips for mitigationGain insights from experienced advisors as they discuss how to avoid disputes, manage risks, and address potential outcomes—including share transfers and recovery strategies. Whether you’re a business owner or shareholder, this series provides essential guidance to help you navigate challenging situations and protect your interests. If you’d like to discuss any of the topics from this episode, please contact Stuart Mullins or Nicky Larkin, who would be delighted to assist you.

Welcome to the first episode of our new podcast series from the Corporate and Commercial team at Clarkslegal. Each quarter, we’ll delve into the most topical issues and significant developments explored by our team over the past three months. Our aim is to provide concise overviews and practical insights into the legal matters shaping the corporate and commercial landscape. In this first episode, Stuart Mullins, Partner in the Corporate and Commercial team, is joined by Jonathan Hayes, Senior Solicitor. Together, they’ll discuss:  Family Investment Companies (FICs) – What they are, how they work, and why they’re increasingly popular for succession and wealth planning.Legal Due Diligence in Corporate Transactions – The importance of due diligence during acquisitions, what it involves, and benefits for both buyers and sellers.Directors’ Duties – Focusing on the duty to act honestly and in good faith, with a look at recent legal developments and practical implications for company directors.If you’d like to discuss any of the topics covered in this episode, please contact Stuart Mullins or Jonathan Hayes, who will be happy to assist you. Articles featured in this episode: Keeping It in the Family: How Family Investment Companies WorkWhy is carrying out a legal Due Diligence investigation necessary during an proposed acquisition?Directors Duties: Honesty and Goodfaith

The UK’s Autumn Budget 2025 has finally put an end to months of speculation. What are the major announcements that will impact businesses? In our latest podcast, join Stuart Mullins, Corporate Partner at Clarkslegal, and Nicky Goringe Larkin, Founder of Goringe Accountants and Co-Founder of Succession Planning, as they delve into the key updates from the Chancellor’s announcement, with a focus on what matters most for businesses looking to buy and sell. Key Highlights: Unchanged policies: The VAT threshold remains unchanged.No NI changes for limited liability partnerships (LLPs).No changes to BADR allowances.Significant changes to businesses looking to buy or sell:  Tax changes to acquisition through employee ownership trusts (EOT’s)Increased thresholds for Enterprise Management Incentives (EMI).If you’d like to discuss any of the topics covered in this episode, please contact Stuart Mullins or Nicky Goringe Larkin who would be happy to help.