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<copyright>Copyright &#169; 2012 info@lblaw.co.uk (Lanyon Bowdler)</copyright>
<pubDate>Sun, 05 Feb 2012 07:43:39 +0000</pubDate>
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<description>Lanyon Bowlder Solicitors blog.</description>
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<title>Lanyon bowdler Blog feed</title>
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<link>http://blog.lblaw.co.uk/</link>
<description>Lanyon Bowlder Solicitors blog.</description>
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<title><![CDATA[Company Commercial Team Compete in the Cold]]></title>
<link>http://blog.lblaw.co.uk/company-commercial-team-compete-in-the-cold-364/</link>
<description><![CDATA[
The Company Commercial team at Lanyon Bowdler were active last weekend training for and competing in the various sporting passions they pursue when not in the office.
Kathryn Morgans, a trainee solicitor in the team, represented Wolverhampton and Bilston Athletics Club on Saturday 28 January at the Midlands Counties Cross Country Championships in Nottingham. Kathryn said: The womens race was a national standard event and took in several muddy and hilly loops of Wollaton Hall and Deer Park. Despite being sunny it was really cold so it was good to see runners of all abilities from Shropshire and the West Midlands turning out to compete.
Ruth James, associate solicitor, had a successful day on Sunday 29 January competing at the Stourport Head of the River race as a member of the womens eight from Ironbridge Rowing Club. Ruths crew coped with the freezing conditions on the water and cruised to victory in both the morning and afternoon divisions. Ruth, who rows at number seven seat, commented: It was difficult to keep warm sat waiting for the race to start, but rowing a 4,500 metre course soon warms you up! We were pleased with our win in the morning but were thrilled to win again in a higher category in the afternoon - a clean sweep for Ironbridge!
Meanwhile, partner and head of the team Richard Murrall is well into a training schedule preparing for his forthcoming coast-to-coast bike ride challenge which he intends to complete in May. Richard spent Sunday out on his bike in the cold and fog covering a 32 mile training circuit through the West Midlands. He said: I am conscious that cycling coast-to-coast in three days will be tough, so Im very aware that there is still much work to be done.]]></description>
<category><![CDATA[Lanyon Bowdler News]]></category>
<pubDate>Thu, 02 Feb 2012 10:47:24 +0000</pubDate>
<guid>http://blog.lblaw.co.uk/company-commercial-team-compete-in-the-cold-364/</guid>
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<title><![CDATA[Metal on Metal Hip Replacements Risk - Cause for Concern?]]></title>
<link>http://blog.lblaw.co.uk/metal-on-metal-hip-replacements-risk-cause-for-concern-363/</link>
<description><![CDATA[
There is much in the media this week regarding the growing concerns in the medical profession about the safety of metal of metal hip replacements.  The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) are launching an investigation into the safety of these implants.These types of prosthesis became common from the mid-1990s in preference to the traditional type of prosthesis of metal ball in plastic socket. With the metal on metal hip replacement the metal femoral ball which sits on the top of the leg fits into the metal acetabular socket which is attached to the hip. Studies have shown an increase in failure rate of the metal on metal prosthesis and, of more concern to recipients, evidence to a reaction to a build up of metal debris from the wear and tear of the socket and a reaction to the metal itself. Problems occur when the friction between the metal ball and the cup causes tiny metal filings to break off and potentially seep into the blood. These can also cause a soft tissue reaction which can go on to affect muscle and bone.Those patients with metal on metal prosthesis should be reviewed annually. Of particular concern was the De Puy models now taken off the market in September 2010.Patients should have been told what type of prosthesis was used in their hip replacement procedure. Those with a De Puy prosthesis should have already been called back for checks however, if you are concerned at all with regard to whether you should be reviewed and as to what type of prosthesis was used it is recommended that you contact the hospital where the procedure was carried out.The MHRA has stressed that the majority of people with such devices are at low risk of developing serious problems but if you have any concerns the advice is to contact your doctor. Complaints of discomfort in the groin, discomfort in the outside of  the hip or buttock or a  mass or visible swelling around the hip, clicking or clanking of the hip or the patient saying the hip gives way should prompt a referral to an orthopaedic specialist ( British Medical Journal).If you require any advice or assistance with regard to metal on metal hip replacements then please contact a member of our clinical negligence team on 0800 954 9936 
]]></description>
<category><![CDATA[Clinical Negligence]]></category>
<pubDate>Tue, 31 Jan 2012 15:52:00 +0000</pubDate>
<guid>http://blog.lblaw.co.uk/metal-on-metal-hip-replacements-risk-cause-for-concern-363/</guid>
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<title><![CDATA[Miss Radnorshire Galaxy To Skydive for Help for Heroes]]></title>
<link>http://blog.lblaw.co.uk/miss-radnorshire-galaxy-to-skydive-for-help-for-heroes-362/</link>
<description><![CDATA[
On 23 May 2012 I will be doing a charity skydive in aid of Help for Heroes at the Airfield Camp, Netheravon, Wiltshire. 
Some time ago, I wrote to an old friend (a Royal Marine) who was at the time serving in Afghanistan. The day after he received my letter, he was injured in an IED explosion which resulted in him having his leg amputated. He is 24 years old. After initial treatment, he was taken to Headley Court in Surrey where all wounded soldiers stay until they are recovered. 
I really feel that raising money for this cause is important. Help for Heroes is such an inspiring and worthy charity, caring for all the brave men and women injured in service, and they deserve the best treatment. There are hundreds of men and women in Headley Court, some who are barely over the age of 21, who have suffered loss of limbs.  There are many more who have lost their lives in the line of duty.  
I will be doing a bag pack at Newtown Morrisons on 24 February with the current Miss Galaxy International  - Jamie Lee Williams a local Oswestry girl.  I will also be attending Help for Heroes fundraising events.  
If you would like to sponsor my skydive, you can donate online at www.bmycharity.com/larastephen.  
As I am also the current Miss Radnorshire Galaxy  I will be doing the skydive wearing my sash..!
 
 ]]></description>
<category><![CDATA[Charity and Fundraising]]></category>
<pubDate>Thu, 26 Jan 2012 11:49:11 +0000</pubDate>
<guid>http://blog.lblaw.co.uk/miss-radnorshire-galaxy-to-skydive-for-help-for-heroes-362/</guid>
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<title><![CDATA[Increase in Dangerous and Illegal Dogs in the West Midlands]]></title>
<link>http://blog.lblaw.co.uk/increase-in-dangerous-and-illegal-dogs-in-the-west-midlands-361/</link>
<description><![CDATA[
The subject of dangerous dogs is featuring heavily in the news at the moment, and there is a continuing problem of dangerous and illegal dogs in the West Midlands.Although the majority of dog owners are responsible and care for their animals, sadly certain individuals choose particular breeds of dog, some of which are already illegal, for use in criminal activities or as protection dogs, creating an animal which is out of control, aggressive and dangerous, through no fault of its own.Many dog owners and victims alike will be uncertain of the laws surrounding dog attacks.  If you are the owner, are you liable if your dog injures or attacks somebody?  If you are the victim of an attack, can you claim for compensation and press criminal charges?Responsible owners of dogs would not be held responsible as they ensure their dogs are kept under sufficient control so as to avoid causing anyone any injury.  In fact a large majority of dog owners themselves are concerned that there are a small minority who mistreat dogs which can often result in the dog turning and attacking someone innocent.The reality of dog bite attacks is that they often involve severe injuries which lead to permanent scarring.  Of course, in addition to the physical injury there is the psychological impact, not only from the scarring, but also from the attack itself.  Often the attacks are not just a little bite from a dog, they are vicious aggressive attacks and can often involve more than one bite.  An attack by a dog can be incredibly distressing, aside from the physical injury.  In severe cases victims require cognitive behaviour therapy to assist them to deal with a phobia of dogs. It is also an unfortunate fact that dog bite claims are on the increase, and statistically children between the ages of 5 to 9 years are most vulnerable.  More than half the incidents involving dog bites require medical attention and a high percentage are fatal.For successful compensation claims a dog owner would only be potentially liable for injuries if their breed of dog falls under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 or if they had the knowledge that their dog has previously shown a tendency of aggressive behaviour, or has previously bitten.  The Dangerous Dogs Act came into force in May 1991 and it states that any Pit Bull Terrier, (Pit Bull Type), Japanese Tosa and Fila Brazilliero, must be muzzled and on a lead whilst in any public place.  Because these dogs are classed as "dangerous breeds" any injury caused will automatically lead to compensation, irrespective of any previous incidents.  If you own one of these breeds of dog it is an offence not to have them muzzled and on a lead, any failure to do so can lead to a fine, or imprisonment for up to 6 months, or in some cases both.  In addition a clause within the Act, which is applicable to all dogs in the UK, states any dog "dangerously out of control in a public place" would also be liable for destruction.In addition, for a successful claim the dog either has to be listed under the Dangerous Dogs Act or proof has to be obtained that the owner should have known that their dog would attack in the given circumstances of the case.  Often either of these things can be proved but victims are left uncompensated because the owner of the dog has no insurance or money to cover the compensation for the victim.  The victim is then left with permanent scarring and distress with no recompense.I am disappointed that in March 2010 the Government announced a compulsory insurance on dogs but then ruled it out only a week later they on the basis that they did not want to penalise responsible owners. There are a staggering 200,000 dog bites in the UK each year, often leaving the victim with permanent physical and psychological scarring.  Responsible owners would have nothing to fear - if you are responsible with your dog, these incidents are likely to be avoided.  In addition, irresponsible owners of dogs would be highlighted as insurance companies would be aware of the claims being made.Often victims of dog attacks do not know that they can claim for compensation due to the actions of irresponsible dog owners.  It is a very sad fact that some people who own dogs do not take responsibility for them or indeed choose a particular breed to use to attack or for dog fighting.  I would urge anyone who has concerns about a dog having a vicious nature to report it immediately to the Police.  Often attacks are not reported to the Police which means there is no evidence of an owners irresponsibility and no way of knowing which owners need education on how to control the dog.  Similarly there would be no records of where owners are using dogs inappropriately.If you have been bitten by a dog contact a local solicitor who specialises in dog attacks, as you may be eligible for a compensation claim.
]]></description>
<category><![CDATA[Personal Injury]]></category>
<pubDate>Tue, 24 Jan 2012 10:34:28 +0000</pubDate>
<guid>http://blog.lblaw.co.uk/increase-in-dangerous-and-illegal-dogs-in-the-west-midlands-361/</guid>
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<title><![CDATA[Lawyers Advise Shropshire and Herefordshire Students in Schools]]></title>
<link>http://blog.lblaw.co.uk/lawyers-advise-shropshire-and-herefordshire-students-in-schools-359/</link>
<description><![CDATA[
We are often approached by schools, colleges and career advice centres who ask if Lanyon Bowdler can assist them with their career events, helping students interested in the law with their career choices.  Our answer is always yes  its great to be able to help out in the local community, and to demonstrate the diversity of roles which exist within a full practice law firm.  
Its fortunate that we have plenty of extremely helpful legal and support staff, who are always more than willing to take the time out to go along to these events to talk about their role, the reality of what it involves, and how they took their first steps into a career in law.  Not everyone takes the classic route into law, and there are far more options available than many students realise, so its good to be able to demonstrate real examples to students who may believe that a career in law is not an option for them.  
As I write, one of our criminal defence lawyers Stephen Scully is at a local school assisting with a Magistrates Court mock trial mooting competition, which has been organised by the Citizenship Foundation.  The aim of the competition is to give young people a glimpse of the legal system in an innovative and exciting way, whilst assisting with their learning and development.   Stephen will be blogging about the mooting competition shortly so watch this space for an update! ]]></description>
<category><![CDATA[Community News]]></category>
<pubDate>Fri, 20 Jan 2012 16:08:43 +0000</pubDate>
<guid>http://blog.lblaw.co.uk/lawyers-advise-shropshire-and-herefordshire-students-in-schools-359/</guid>
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<title><![CDATA[Pedestrians and Cyclists Listening to Music on Headphones - Hear the Warning]]></title>
<link>http://blog.lblaw.co.uk/pedestrians-and-cyclists-listening-to-music-on-headphones-hear-the-warning-358/</link>
<description><![CDATA[
With the advancement in technology, marvellous devices such as the Ipod allow people to listen to music wherever they may be, but at what price?  Recent studies have shown an increase in accidents involving pedestrians because of the use of such devices.  Accidents where pedestrians are involved always have the potential for the pedestrian to sustain serious or significant injuries which more often than not lead to death. 
Pedestrians and cyclists who use MP3s or the like whilst out and about on the roads should ensure that they take extra care for their own safety.  Whilst headphones are in use, the pedestrian or cyclists concentration is likely to be affected, as is their ability to hear the actions of car drivers around them.  I was recently driving to work when a cyclist pulled out in front of me.  Whilst I had sounded my horn to indicate my presence and alert the young man involved, unfortunately he was completely oblivious to my horn as he had headphones on and no doubt his volume was greater than just background noise.   
Drivers are often criticised in claims involving pedestrians or cyclists for not making the victim aware of their approach, for example for failing to sound their horn or flash their lights or indicate their intention.  Unfortunately, a driver observing a pedestrian who does not seem fully aware of the vehicle's presence will have little impact sounding their horn if the pedestrian or cyclist cannot hear it.  Similarly while devices are on and the headphones in, often the individual can drift off into a world of their own and become very unaware of what is going on around them.   
In accidents involving pedestrians or cyclists using headphones, they should be aware that it is likely that if they are injured and wish to pursue someone for compensation, their compensator may claim contributory negligence against them for failing to take care of their own safety.  Contributory means that they have in some way contributed to the accident and therefore their injuries.  In recent years there have been laws brought in with respect to the use of mobile phones whilst driving and I would welcome similar laws being brought in with respect to the use of headphones - particularly with cyclists.   
Headphones are just as likely to affect concentration as mobile phones, so think twice when 'plugging in' on your journey. 
  
]]></description>
<category><![CDATA[Personal Injury]]></category>
<pubDate>Tue, 17 Jan 2012 11:46:00 +0000</pubDate>
<guid>http://blog.lblaw.co.uk/pedestrians-and-cyclists-listening-to-music-on-headphones-hear-the-warning-358/</guid>
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<title><![CDATA[Botox - The Risks]]></title>
<link>http://blog.lblaw.co.uk/botox-the-risks-357/</link>
<description><![CDATA[
We learned recently of yet further warnings of serious injury associated with the use of botox for cosmetic purposes. 
Research suggests that Botulinum cosmetics products may cause brain damage.  This contradicts earlier findings about using botulinum neurotoxins for cosmetic purposes.
The study by the Italian National Research Council's Institute of Neuroscience, concludes it is not safe to use botulinum products (popularly known by their trade names Botox or Dysport or Xeomin) to get rid of the wrinkles in the face.  These products may cause brain damage because the toxins might be able to travel to the brain.
Worryingly we are told that the researchers injected a botulism product into rat's whisker muscles.  Three days later, they found remnants of a protein broken down by the toxin in part of the brain stem.  Later, signs of the toxin showed up in their brains. They found that it also moved to a part of the brain that controls long-term memory, spatial navigation and eye-head coordination.
It is common knowledge that Botulinum neurotoxin is a poisonous substance.  If inhaled, it would kill a person.  Botulinum toxin causes botulism poisoning, a serious and life-threatening illness in humans and animals.  It works by paralyzing muscles.
We are told that notwithstanding the known poisonous nature of this substance today, botulinum neurotoxin injection is the most commonly performed cosmetic procedure in the world.
Worldwide there has been an increase in lawsuits against manufacturers of botulinum toxins type A products. Many require a warning detailing serious side effects but does this go far enough?
More and more stories are emerging of sufferers of brain injury and other serious side effects arising from the use of botulism injections. Clearly additional research is needed. 
Until then, beware.]]></description>
<category><![CDATA[Clinical Negligence]]></category>
<pubDate>Fri, 13 Jan 2012 16:09:18 +0000</pubDate>
<guid>http://blog.lblaw.co.uk/botox-the-risks-357/</guid>
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<title><![CDATA[Assisting the CIDT at the University of Wolverhampton ]]></title>
<link>http://blog.lblaw.co.uk/assisting-the-cidt-at-the-university-of-wolverhampton-356/</link>
<description><![CDATA[
Recently myself and colleague Emma Alsop were delighted to be able to provide assistance to the Centre for International Development and Training (CIDT) at the University of Wolverhampton.  The CIDT has recently hosted teams from Bangladesh interested in furthering their knowledge and understanding in various fields of business, to assist them in projects planned for their country.  
One of the teams, based at the Universitys Telford campus, had specific interest in the registration of land transfers, digitalisation of information, plans relating to land transactions, the security of such information and how to make the ownership of land clear and transparent to all the citizens.  During their stay the team visited various relevant organisations including the Land Registry in Telford. 
Following the team's visit to the Land Registry, I chaired a half day de-brief and we then hosted a half day demonstration on the benefits of a conveyancing case management system and its interaction with the land transfer process. Emma Alsop, who heads the firms residential property team in Shrewsbury, ran the workshop. 
The feedback from the Bangladeshi teams was extremely encouraging and it really was a pleasure to be able to offer our help.  ]]></description>
<category><![CDATA[Residential Property]]></category>
<pubDate>Mon, 09 Jan 2012 14:38:23 +0000</pubDate>
<guid>http://blog.lblaw.co.uk/assisting-the-cidt-at-the-university-of-wolverhampton-356/</guid>
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<title><![CDATA[Drug Driving - New Legislation On The Way?]]></title>
<link>http://blog.lblaw.co.uk/drug-driving-new-legislation-on-the-way-355/</link>
<description><![CDATA[
Reports released in the press today suggest that the government is recruiting a panel of scientists to look into drug-driving limits to try and make it easier to secure convictions.
At present the law requires the CPS to prove beyond reasonable doubt that a drivers actions have been impaired by taking drugs.
The panel will consider a possible new offence and whether or not it is possible to impose a level at which a drivers ability would be impaired. 
Many experts consider the current legislation to be inadequate.
Department of Transport figures for accidents in 2010 suggest that driving under the influence of drugs was a contributory factor in 1094 cases including 51 fatal accidents. 
 
 ]]></description>
<category><![CDATA[Criminal Law]]></category>
<pubDate>Wed, 04 Jan 2012 16:44:47 +0000</pubDate>
<guid>http://blog.lblaw.co.uk/drug-driving-new-legislation-on-the-way-355/</guid>
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<title><![CDATA[New Year, New Will - Is It At The Top Of Your Resolution List?]]></title>
<link>http://blog.lblaw.co.uk/new-year-new-will-is-it-at-the-top-of-your-resolution-list-354/</link>
<description><![CDATA[
New Year  new plans, and with them, the best of intentions, which do not always come to fruition.  However, certain resolutions are worth sticking to, and for those people who have not yet made a Will, it should be at the top of the resolution list!
It is estimated that around 50% of people die without a Will, which puts both their finances and their families at risk.  Many people do not realise that if they die without leaving a Will, it is likely that their money will go to the Crown.
The law as it currently stands does not recognise partners even if they have been living together for many years.  However, if you do make a Will, you will be able to include partners, friends, charities and even pets, and have full control over matters such as funeral arrangements.  
Although it is a topic which many people dont wish to dwell on, and many think they do not currently need, it is essential to protect your assets, and the future of your family.  It is also vitally important to make sure that your Will is properly drawn up.  A badly drafted Will, or one which is incorrectly executed, can have dire consequences.  
If you think about it, making a Will should be one of the most important legal transactions that you enter into in your life  right up there with a house purchase and mortgage.  However, too few of us have a Will or keep it regularly under review.  My view is that, not having a Will runs an unnecessary risk.  If you have a family, I think that risk is not just unnecessary, it is unjustifiable.  Do not put it off.  Make that resolution.]]></description>
<category><![CDATA[Private Client ]]></category>
<pubDate>Fri, 30 Dec 2011 09:05:33 +0000</pubDate>
<guid>http://blog.lblaw.co.uk/new-year-new-will-is-it-at-the-top-of-your-resolution-list-354/</guid>
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