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Disputing a Statutory Demand: A Strategic Guide for Debtors

Business

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13/12/2023

Disputing a Statutory Demand: A Strategic Guide for Debtors

A Statutory Demand, rooted in the Insolvency Act 1986, is a formalised call for debt repayment used by creditors to compel payment from debtors, whether they are individuals or businesses.

For debtors who question the legitimacy of a Statutory Demand they have received, there is a legal pathway to challenge and possibly get it set aside. The following steps outline the process of disputing a Statutory Demand:

Professional Legal Consultation: It’s crucial for a debtor to initially seek advice from a solicitor who is experienced in insolvency and debt-related legal matters. This step is essential to understand the specifics of their situation and to plot an appropriate legal response.
Valid Grounds for Challenging a Statutory Demand: Understanding the legitimate reasons for disputing a Statutory Demand is key for the debtor. These grounds typically include:
- Contesting the accuracy of the debt.
- The debt being below the statutory minimum.
- Errors in the statutory demand’s format or content.
- The debtor having a counterclaim, set-off, or cross-demand that meets or exceeds the debt.
Crucial Forms for the Challenge in England and Wales:
- Form 6.4 (Rule 6.4(1)): The application form for the debtor to challenge the statutory demand.
- Form 6.5 (Rule 6.4(2)): This form provides evidence and details to support the challenge.
- Form 6.6 (Rule 6.4(3)): Used if the debtor is also seeking an injunction against a bankruptcy petition from the creditor.

The debtor must complete and submit these forms to the court, which then schedules a hearing to review the application. It is important to follow the correct protocol and present all necessary evidence and information for a successful challenge.

Assistance from Expert Commercial Law in Debt Recovery

Expert Commercial Law, through its panel of solicitors experienced in commercial law, offers invaluable assistance for parties looking to set aside a Statutory Demand. While we are not a law firm, we provide access to a panel of solicitors for legal advice and cost-effective support on commercial law cases, including setting aside Statutory Demands. Our panel also deals with other commercial matters like business energy claims, shareholder disputes and contract disputes.

Global Gaming Adventure: Ticket to Ride Hits Mobile Platforms

News Desk

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13/12/2023

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Global Gaming Adventure: Ticket to Ride Hits Mobile Platforms

Marmalade Game Studio proudly announces the expansion of Ticket to Ride to mobile platforms, following its acclaimed introduction on Steam in November.

Since launching on Steam, Marmalade Game Studio has been exemplary in its community interaction, continually incorporating feedback from players into the game’s development. They have also provided a clear roadmap of ongoing support extending through 2024. This move to mobile is in direct response to the gaming community’s desire for a more mobile-friendly version of Ticket to Ride. True to Marmalade’s ethos, the game supports cross-platform multiplayer, enabling users to connect with others regardless of the device.

Co-CEO of Marmalade Game Studio, Michael Willis, highlights the studio’s community-driven approach: “We’ve always prioritised actively listening and responding to our players’ desires and with Ticket to Ride we’ve enjoyed amazing support and engagement from our player-base. The transparent roadmap, detailing our commitment to ongoing support through 2024 and beyond, is a testament to our dedication. Your feedback drives us, and together, we’re shaping the future of our game.”

The mobile iteration of Ticket to Ride encompasses all features present in the Steam release, including an advanced adaptive AI system, a revitalised design, and various play modes, both real-time and asynchronous. The game launches with the Europe map available for purchase within the app, and players can anticipate multiple expansions over the next 12-18 months.

The Downfall of Smile Direct Club: Thousands Left With Incomplete Dental Treatments

Medical

News Desk

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13/12/2023

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The Downfall of Smile Direct Club: Thousands Left With Incomplete Dental Treatments

Smile Direct Club’s recent filing for bankruptcy has stranded countless patients in the midst of their dental treatments, posing a risk of irreversible harm to their dental and bone health. Board-certified orthodontist Dr Guilherme Xavier from Dulwich Dental Office had long predicted such an outcome.

Dental professionals have consistently called for more stringent oversight of these unlicensed, makeshift dental clinics offering economical teeth straightening services. The old adage that if something appears too good to be true, it often is, rings true in this case – a crisis that was bound to happen.

Smile Direct Club did manage to deliver on their promise of affordable teeth straightening to a select group, typically those with minor dental issues and good oral health. Yet, even these patients now find themselves in a tough spot, having paid for services with no avenue for reimbursement or certainty about future orthodontic care.

The dental community isn’t surprised by this development, having sought stricter regulation from the General Dental Council without success. Smile Direct Club had devised various methods to avoid any punitive measures. As is often the case with inexpensive alternatives, numerous patients are now facing potential gum disease, a relapse of their treatment progress, or in the worst cases, tooth loss.

Legal action against Smile Direct Club appears unlikely due to the extensive disclaimers in their initial patient agreements.

Affected patients should first avoid panicking and consult a specialist orthodontist for an assessment and a revised treatment plan. This might involve starting over or adapting the previous treatment.

Depending on the case, either aligners or traditional braces might be recommended. Consulting with a board-certified specialist orthodontist is the best course of action. Dr Xavier is offering legitimate consultations at Dulwich Dental Office, Dental Care Centre, and Camden High Street Dental in London.

Consultation bookings are available at:

Dr Guilherme Xavier is a board-certified specialist orthodontist registered with the General Dental Council and has held a position as an Academic Clinical Lecturer and honorary specialist registrar in Orthodontics at King’s College London.

Osbourne Pinner Addresses Survey Indicating One Quarter of Landlords May Sell in 2024

Property

News Desk

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12/12/2023

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Osbourne Pinner Addresses Survey Indicating One Quarter of Landlords May Sell in 2024

Osbourne Pinner, a top-tier law firm in London, has issued a response following a recent survey by Alan Boswell Landlord Insurance Statistics, which revealed that one in four landlords is contemplating selling their properties in 2024.

The survey highlighted that a slim majority (52%) of landlords plan to maintain their current portfolio size, with 26% intending to sell more properties than they purchase, and 22% looking to expand in the coming year.

2023 has been a significant year for the industry, marked by the introduction of the Renters Reform Bill in Parliament. This Bill seeks to eliminate assured shorthold tenancies and, consequently, section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions. The proposed change would see PRS tenancies become monthly periodic assured tenancies without a fixed end date. The Bill also aims to bolster the criteria for repossession, addressing issues like anti-social behaviour and accumulated rent arrears.

The Bill underwent its second reading in October and was successfully passed, bringing it a step closer to enactment.

Santosh Kumar, Senior Housing Solicitor at Osbourne Pinner, commented: “With tougher legislation such as the Renters Reform Bill currently on the agenda, as well as unpredictable inflation rates, landlords appear to be thinking twice about whether the industry is as lucrative as it once was.

“The Alan Boswell survey showed that tenant conflicts are also high on the list of landlords’ biggest concerns, so working with a trusted legal partner is recommended to deal with conflicts as and when they occur.

“As the legislation landlords have to comply with is changing, having an expert legal team on your side is crucial to protecting your investment. We view our clients’ properties as if they’re our own, whether they are renters or landlords looking for a future investment or a source of income.

Located in Piccadilly Circus and Harrow, Osbourne Pinner recently launched its Landlord and Tenant service. The service has quickly attracted a substantial client base. It offers landlords bespoke services, including advice and support from the time a tenant moves in until their departure.

Santosh further stated: “Our specialist tenant dispute solicitors know how to protect tenants’ rights and ensure they get what they deserve. When your landlord takes legal action against you, we’ll help and advise you about your rights and the potential legal costs. Additionally, we can assist you with tenant disputes over assured shorthold tenancies, deposit disputes and property repair claims.

“We work as an integral member of your commercial property team and our approach is straightforward and clear, limiting the financial impact of disagreements. We will advise and assist you throughout the landlord and tenant dispute, explaining your rights, alternatives, and likely outcomes.”

Further information about Osbourne Pinner is accessible here.

Expert Chris Boyd Elucidates the Importance of Latest Burglary Technologies for Residential and Commercial Property Security

Technology

News Desk

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12/12/2023

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Expert Chris Boyd Elucidates the Importance of Latest Burglary Technologies for Residential and Commercial Property Security

In 2022/2023, England and Wales reported an alarming 191,490 house burglaries. This breaks down to about 525 burglaries each day, or one every 165 seconds.

Given these figures, the need for businesses and families to evaluate and update their security measures is paramount.

Chris Boyd, the founder of NSW UK, which specializes in a broad spectrum of CCTV and burglary systems, discusses strategies for ensuring optimal security.

Advancing Security Technology

The last decade has seen substantial advancements in CCTV technology, moving away from the once-standard fuzzy images featured on Crime Stoppers.

The real strength of CCTV systems lies in their integration with other security solutions, such as burglar alarms, to prevent theft and vandalism in both residential and business environments.

Chris Boyd shares NSW UK’s technology approach: “Every CCTV system we build and install has the ability to capture high-definition footage. In a court of law, CCTV footage from a professionally built system may be included as evidence, which can protect communities more efficiently.”

He further explains, “There are analogue and digital CCTV systems available. Digital systems, using Internet Protocol (IP), are newer, while analogue systems have been in use for longer. IP cameras can be either hardwired or wireless, and operate using sim cards or wifi.”

The advancements in security technology have brought invaluable peace of mind to property owners. The capability to monitor locations remotely via web browsers or smartphone apps plays a critical role in deterring crime and identifying offenders.

He concludes: “CCTV systems, whether digital or analogue, each offer benefits and drawbacks. Selecting the correct system can be difficult, so it’s important to do your homework and pick a company that has the best expertise, carefully trains its employees, and has the newest designs and can assist you along the way. Although this may be more expensive, it’s better to avoid going with the less expensive option that could end up costing much more if properties are broken into later.”

Chris also highlights the significance of maintaining systems:

“Every part of a protective system is brand-new and fully functional when it is installed. The components of an alarm may wear out with time and frequent use. When this occurs, safety issues may also surface in addition to the alarm’s decreased effectiveness.

This is the reason why maintaining systems is crucial for both financial and safety reasons. This can also be accomplished through the business you chose; NSW UK has the best-trained personnel to install and support your alarms and systems in addition to providing ongoing maintenance.”

Further details about NSW UK’s CCTV and tech services are available here.

Leading Academics and AI Experts to Deliberate Education’s Future at London Event, Introducing KEATH

AI
Education

News Desk

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12/12/2023

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Leading Academics and AI Experts to Deliberate Education’s Future at London Event, Introducing KEATH

The University of Surrey, in collaboration with their AI EdTech spinout KEATH.ai, is orchestrating a landmark AI Advancement Forum at London’s House of Lords. Scheduled for December 15th, this forum is set to address the challenges and opportunities of AI in education, potentially shaping its future direction.

Diverse Experts Gather to Explore AI in Education

This notable event will host discussions on AI’s implications in the education sector. The forum will see a gathering of influential figures, including lords, chancellors, and leaders from academia and venture capital. Key speakers at the event are:

Prof. Max Lu, President and Vice-Chancellor, University of Surrey
The Lord Taylor of Warwick
Prof. Katie Normington, Vice-Chancellor of De Montfort University
Prof. Manolis Mavrikis, Artificial Intelligence Professor at University College London (UCL)
Kevin Ebenezer, Head of Global Recognition, Cambridge University Press and Assessment
Dr. Lisa Nelson, Director of Learning, Kaplan

Launch and Showcase of KEATH’s EdTech Solutions

The event also serves as a platform for KEATH.ai to launch and present its innovative EdTech solutions. Joey Lin, KEATH’s CEO, is confident in the company’s groundbreaking approach to assessment. KEATH’s technology, having shown remarkable accuracy in grading Pearson EPQs, is touted as independent and proprietary, distinct from existing AGI models.

Addressing Teacher Workload through AI

The issue of overburdened educators is significant, with studies indicating excessive hours spent on tasks beyond teaching, especially assessment. In the US, educators work upwards of 54 hours a week, with UK teachers dedicating around six hours daily to student assessments. This considerable workload has led to industrial actions, highlighting the potential role of AI in alleviating these pressures.

Advancing Education with AI Solutions

The integration of AI in education, spearheaded by the University of Surrey and KEATH.ai, represents a new chapter in teaching methodologies. Institutions like the University of Southampton and Sunway University in Malaysia are early examples of the practical application of these AI tools. The upcoming AI Advancement Forum is a crucial juncture, uniting experts to deliberate on and navigate the future of AI in the educational landscape.

Data References

Hardison, H. (2022). How Teachers Spend Their Time: A Breakdown. Education Week. [online] 19 Apr. Available at: https://www.edweek.org/teaching-learning/how-teachers-spend-their-time-a-breakdown/2022/04

Mcshane, M. (2022). How do Teachers Spend Their Time? [online] Available at: https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED621761.pdf.

Weir, M. (n.d.). 7 things you might not realize teachers have to do after the school day ends. [online] Business Insider. Available at: https://www.businessinsider.com/teachers-time-spent-after-school-work-2019-10?r=US&IR=T.

www.tes.com. (n.d.). Teachers spend ‘44 days a year’ assessing pupils | Tes Magazine. [online] Available at: https://www.tes.com/magazine/archive/teachers-spend-44-days-year-assessing-pupils

euromedia (2016). UK teachers spend a whole day on marking each week. [online] qaeducation. Available at: https://qaeducation.co.uk/feature/uk-teachers-spend-whole-day-marking-each-week/

Craig Herd Secures Prestigious Young Banker of the Year Award for Dementia-Supportive Banking Concept

News Desk

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11/12/2023

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Craig Herd Secures Prestigious Young Banker of the Year Award for Dementia-Supportive Banking Concept

Craig Herd, representing Sainsbury’s Bank, has been awarded the prestigious title of 2023 UK Young Banker of the Year at the contest’s climax held at Mansion House in London on 7 December 2023.

Since its inception in 1987 by the Chartered Banker Institute, the awards have been spotlighting individuals who demonstrate a commitment to customer-focused, ethically driven professionalism, a standard set by the Institute and anticipated by society.

This year’s competition challenged Young Bankers across the UK to present innovative ideas for their organisations that would positively impact customers, colleagues, and communities. Their proposals were to embody their vision for the future of banking, aligned with the principles of the Chartered Banker Institute and the UN Principles for Responsible Banking. The champion of the contest is awarded a trophy, a £1000 cash prize, and an additional £1000 to donate to a charity of their choice.

Craig Herd proposed a pioneering idea for a dementia-supportive feature in banking services, providing a comprehensive support package for customers affected by dementia and their families. This feature, activated upon the customer’s disclosure of their diagnosis, includes enhanced customer service support, monitoring tools for a designated “champion,” and advanced screenings to guard against financial crimes like fraud and scams. This initiative is designed to assist customers in retaining control over their finances during challenging times.

After receiving the award, Craig Herd stated:

“I’m delighted to have had this opportunity to champion the needs of customers living with dementia. The number of people diagnosed with dementia is increasing every year in the UK, and research shows that customers living with dementia and their families need more targeted support from the banking industry. Being able to raise my idea of Dementia Safe on such an esteemed platform will start conversations in the industry on how we better support customers living with dementia. The proposals from my fellow finalists show the very best of our industry, and giving young bankers the opportunity to develop and present these ideas will continue to have a positive impact on not only banking but wider society.”

Alderman Sir Peter Estlin, announcing this year’s winner, commented:

“The Young Banker of the Year competition is an excellent opportunity to not only celebrate some of the future leaders of our City, but to showcase the abundance of talent that exists across the sector too. By grappling with, and finding solutions to, some of the key issues being discussed in the City – like how to deliver sustainable growth – these young professionals are pushing boundaries, challenging accepted wisdom, and devising strategies today that will benefit us all tomorrow. My congratulations to Craig and the other finalists. They are a credit to themselves, their businesses, and the City as a whole.”

Simon Thompson, Chief Executive of the Chartered Banker Institute, added his congratulations:

“All four finalists personified the ethical and professional ethos of the Chartered Banker Institute and the values underpinning the UN Principles for Responsible Banking. Congratulations to Craig, our Young Banker of the Year, and to all our finalists for presenting their ideas for aligning banking with the objectives of the Paris Agreement and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The future of our banking sector and profession is bright if tonight’s Young Bankers are anything to go by.”

In addition to the main title, Craig Herd was also honoured with the Audience Prize, as chosen by the attendees for exemplifying the highest professional standards in banking. Steve Pateman, President of the Chartered Banker Institute, said upon presenting the award:

“I would like to congratulate Craig, for winning the Audience Prize and on becoming, the 2023 Chartered Banker Young Banker of the Year. I pay tribute to all four finalists tonight, for their inspirational ideas. There has been much to be proud of and it leaves me with enormous confidence in the future of our banking profession.”

Osbourne Pinner’s Insight on New Stringent Skilled Worker and Spouse Visa Rules”

Legal

News Desk

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08/12/2023

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Osbourne Pinner’s Insight on New Stringent Skilled Worker and Spouse Visa Rules”

Osbourne Pinner, a distinguished law firm in London, has reacted to the newly enacted visa regulations that aim to reduce migration into the UK. Noted for its expertise, the firm has assisted over a thousand businesses in recruiting international talent through its Skilled Worker Visa and Sponsor Licence service, achieving a remarkable 100% success rate in Sponsor Licence applications and earning a reputation as a foremost solicitor in this sector in London.

Reacting to Home Secretary James Cleverly’s recent introduction of several measures to limit immigration, including raising the minimum salary for foreign skilled workers to £38,700 from the prior £26,200 (excluding the healthcare sector), Osbourne Pinner has articulated its position.

Senior Immigration Solicitor at Osbourne Pinner, Richard Young, commented: “These new regulations are going to have a significant impact on UK businesses seeking to recruit skilled workers from overseas. The raised minimum salary is a large jump and will mean that some UK companies can no longer afford to recruit workers from overseas. We strongly advise companies who are looking to recruit foreign skilled workers to enlist the support of a legal expert to establish what effect the new regulations will have on the process.”

The firm estimates that the new regulations could lead to a reduction in migration by approximately 300,000 annually, making it more challenging for companies to hire overseas workers and for the workers to obtain skilled worker visas. Sponsor licence applications are crucial for companies to employ skilled individuals from outside the UK and EEA under the Skilled Worker rule for Tier 2 and Tier 5 visas.

Further elaborating, Richard Young said: “Anyone seeking to employ overseas workers should be mindful of the record-keeping, reporting and monitoring that is required by the Home Office to ensure that your company complies with the regulations. We can assist with this, but an in-house HR team is highly beneficial. Since the legislation changed in April 2023 to the points-based immigration system, the legalities around recruiting overseas workers now has added complexity. The updated regulations will add further complications to the process, so having legal aid to guide you through the process is strongly recommended. Time will tell as to what the impact the new rules will have, but our team has a 100% success rate in this field so we will be able to assist companies as they navigate the regulations and understand what is now required of them to ensure compliance.”

Additionally, the new ruling also increases the minimum income requirement for a spouse or family visa from £18,600 to £38,700, affecting the ability of UK citizens to bring their foreign-born spouses to the country.

Yee Han, Senior Associate at Osbourne Pinner, stated: “The raised salary requirement for a spouse visa will mean that some UK citizens will be unable to bring their spouse to live with them, unless they are able to get a higher-paid job that meets the £38,700 threshold.

“We are working with clients on the changes to check their eligibility. Even prior to these new regulations being introduced, obtaining a partner visa can be a complicated and long process. It is essential to consider your circumstances carefully and seek professional advice before applying for a spouse visa in the UK. Applying for a skilled worker visa may be time-consuming. If you make mistakes in your application, you risk delays, rejection, or even being denied entry to the UK. Our team can assist you in avoiding these mistakes and improving your chances of having your application accepted.”

Osbourne Pinner offers free consultations for those navigating the new migration rules, available through their online booking system.

More information about Osbourne Pinner can be found here.

Economic Pressures Lead Brits to Sideline Sustainability in Christmas Shopping, Manhattan Associates Study Shows

Business

News Desk

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07/12/2023

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Economic Pressures Lead Brits to Sideline Sustainability in Christmas Shopping, Manhattan Associates Study Shows

A new study by Manhattan Associates Inc. (NASDAQ: MANH) highlights a shift in British consumer habits this Christmas, with economic pressures leading to a decreased focus on sustainability. The survey, conducted by YouGov, found that amidst the cost-of-living crisis, 32% of Brits are not actively looking for sustainable products or brands for their holiday shopping.

Sustainable Shopping Takes a Backseat

Craig Summers, Manhattan Associates’ Managing Director UKI, MEA & Nordics, comments on the economic impact on consumer choices: “The golden quarter and holiday season is well underway but clearly the state of the economy is having an effect on customer behaviour – unfortunately, it looks as if cost is trumping sustainability just now.”

Despite the current trend, the study reveals that outside the festive season, British consumers still value sustainability, with a significant majority supporting sustainable packaging and product lifecycles. Furthermore, many are willing to adjust their shopping habits to lower carbon emissions.

Retailers’ Role in Balancing Sustainability and Cost

For retailers, the challenge lies in offering sustainable yet affordable options. They must consider sustainability from the start of the product design process and work towards greener supply chains. Summers reflects on the challenges faced in 2023: “This year has been tough for retailers and consumers across the board… While inflation is beginning to ease, the road to recovery will not happen overnight… but hopefully we will see greener shoots of recovery for the economy, and also consumer impetus for sustainability, return in the spring.”

LEAP Offers Free Energy and Money-Saving Advice to Residents of Kent and Essex

News Desk

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06/12/2023

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The Local Energy Advice Partnership (LEAP), known for providing free energy and money-saving advice, has extended its services to the residents of London, Kent, and Essex. This expansion comes as part of the ongoing efforts to combat rising fuel poverty in the UK.

Residents in these areas who are facing difficulties with their energy bills or struggling to heat their homes this winter can now avail free advice from LEAP’s network of qualified energy advisors. They can also access support for energy efficiency and energy-saving technological enhancements.

The recent government announcement about a 5% price cap rise from the current rates is set to impact 29 million energy customers across the UK, with fuel costs anticipated to increase by £94 for direct debit customers. This rise is particularly concerning for households in Kent and Essex, where, according to the Office of National Statistics, areas south of Tunbridge Wells rank low in energy efficiency. National Energy Action has highlighted that nearly 6000 households in Harwich and North Essex are living in fuel poverty.

Vanessa Springham, Head of Marketing & Communications at LEAP, underscores the immediacy of the issue: “Fuel poverty is right on our doorstep. We are here to help local residents with free energy advice; it all starts with a relaxed, informal call. Anyone in the area who is struggling with the rising cost of energy bills is encouraged to get in touch. It’s about helping households minimise the risk of falling into fuel poverty and for those who are already in it, it’s reminding them that they don’t have to suffer alone.”

LEAP’s services are comprehensive, offering appliance support, energy advice, and access to energy efficiency funding schemes and boiler replacement. Residents of Kent and Essex are encouraged to contact LEAP through their website and schedule a call to benefit from these free services.

A Statutory Demand, rooted in the Insolvency Act 1986, is a formalised call for debt repayment used by creditors to compel payment from debtors, whether they are individuals or businesses.

Assistance from Expert Commercial Law in Debt Recovery

Marmalade Game Studio proudly announces the expansion of Ticket to Ride to mobile platforms, following its acclaimed introduction on Steam in November.

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