First, a quick personal note: If you noticed a few days' quiet here on Because Crime Doesn’t Pay (Enough) - you're absolutely right. Life and work pulled me into a few big projects recently, and posting paused for a moment. But I'm back now, and regular updates are resuming from today. Thanks for your patience - and for proving that community in law isn’t just about cases; it’s about showing up. And speaking of unrealistic expectations... today's myth to bust is this: “Real lawyers never miss a beat. They’re always perfect, always on time, and always available.” Let’s be real: that's not law — that’s legend. Law Is a Human Profession In law school and early practice, you’re often sold the idea that being a "real lawyer" means being invincible. No late deadlines. No missed details. No off days. In reality? Lawyers are human. And the legal system — despite its high standards — was designed with the understanding that humans run it. Judges grant adjournments. Clients reschedule. Superviso

When people think about law and tech, they often imagine dramatic courtroom AI or robot judges. But the real revolution? It's happening in the day-to-day. Legal automation isn’t glamorous. It’s not always disruptive. But it’s quietly transforming the way legal professionals - especially in small firms and consultancy roles - get things done. What Do I Mean by Automation? Let’s break it down. I’m not talking about replacing humans. I’m talking about: Automatically generating NDAs or contracts with client-specific inputs Automating email reminders for key dates (deadlines, renewals, filings) Using legal CRMs that track client onboarding, billing, and case progression Triggering updates or form completions based on client questionnaire responses Auto-tagging and routing documents with smart workflows These aren't futuristic tools. They’re available now. And I use some of them every day. Why It Matters in Legal Practice If you're running a lean team - or if you're supporting SMEs as a cons

When I first began studying law, I’ll admit - I didn’t fully grasp just how much of commercial law is about the small things. Clause placement. Payment schedules. Indemnities. Force majeure. At first, these details felt fussy. Now? I understand they are everything. The Fine Print Is Where Businesses Live (and Sometimes Die) Commercial law isn’t about theory. It’s about real businesses making real decisions in real time - and needing legal frameworks that are airtight, adaptable, and risk-aware. The wrong clause in a supply contract can bankrupt a company. The omission of a dispute resolution term can cost months of lost time and legal fees. The difference between “best endeavours” and “reasonable endeavours” might decide whether your client is in breach or walking free. Why I Love the Detail There’s something empowering about knowing you’ve caught the thing everyone else skimmed over. When you’re a commercial lawyer, your role isn’t just to react to problems - it’s to prevent them. You

Because sometimes, the law really does work. Back in October 2024, I wrote about Stephen Yaxley-Lennon’s (aka Tommy Robinson) 18-month prison sentence for contempt of court. I predicted that any appeal would be futile. Fast forward to April 2025, and the Court of Appeal has confirmed that prediction by dismissing his appeal in Yaxley-Lennon v HM Solicitor General [2025] EWCA Civ 476. Let’s break down the law behind it - and the judgment from the related judicial review - because the court’s reasoning is not just a win for procedural fairness. It’s a masterclass in how the judiciary deals with serial contempt and performative defiance. Contempt of Court: A Tool of Enforcement At the heart of the case was civil contempt: breaching an injunction imposed to prevent Yaxley-Lennon from repeating defamatory and dangerous claims relating to previous litigation. His breach was not only deliberate - it was proudly publicised. Civil contempt is not a criminal offence in the traditional sense, but

Welcome to the very first post in a new category here on Because Crime Doesn’t Pay (Enough) - Legal Mythbusting. Every week or so, I’ll tackle one of those persistent legal misconceptions that seem to survive no matter how many court judgments, solicitors, or common-sense reality checks try to kill them off. This series is for law students, clients, business owners, and anyone who’s ever said “I heard you can’t get done for that” and lived to regret it. And to kick things off? We’re starting with a big one. Myth: "If It's Not a Crime, Then It's Not Illegal" Nope. Just... no. This misunderstanding usually comes from a confusion between criminal law (which everyone knows about thanks to TV dramas and tabloid headlines) and civil law, which makes up the vast majority of everyday legal disputes - but rarely gets the spotlight. Here’s the truth: You don’t need to commit a crime to be sued. And just because the police aren’t involved doesn’t mean you’re off the hook. Enter: The Law of Torts

It’s been a busy week in Parliament — with major developments across national security, workers’ rights, housing, environmental protections, and more. From long-awaited protections for live event venues to bold moves on renters’ rights and cyber resilience, here’s your roundup of what’s new, what’s moving, and what SMEs, legal professionals, and the public should keep an eye on. Enacted: Martyn’s Law — Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 After years of campaigning, Martyn’s Law has finally received Royal Assent. Officially titled the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, the new law requires venues hosting over 200 people to assess and plan for the risk of a terrorist attack. Named in memory of Martyn Hett, a victim of the Manchester Arena bombing, this law is a significant step in enhancing public safety. Venue operators must now implement emergency training and security protocols to better protect staff and attendees. This isn't just a regulatory shift - it’s a cultura