Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed – the podcast where we dive into the intricacies of the law and uncover how the justice system impacts our daily lives.
Join us as we break down complex legal topics with the help of experienced legal professionals, making the world of law easier to understand and navigate. From family law to employment law, we’ll explore issues that touch everyone at some point in their lives.
Throughout this series, the team from Richard Reed will share their insights, practical advice, and tips from their areas of legal expertise.
Considering Short Term Lets and Buy-to-Let Mortgages with Hannah Cullen and Steve Lightley
Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed, the podcast that simplifies the law and explores how it affects our daily lives. In this episode, Sarah Reid is joined by buy-to-let specialist Hannah Cullen and mortgage adviser Steve Lightley. They discuss property law with a focus on short term and Airbnb type lettings specifically.
Letting a property out by the night rather than the year can look like the obvious way to get more from a buy-to-let investment. The returns are often better and the flexibility is appealing, particularly with the Renters' Rights Act changing how longer tenancies work. But permission to let short term isn't automatic. It can be restricted by your mortgage conditions, the covenants on your title, the terms of a lease or the council's planning rules.
Sarah is joined by Hannah and Steve to explain what needs checking before you commit, how lenders view short term letting differently, and what happens when a property is being used in a way that hasn’t been signed off on.
Here's what we'll cover in this episode:
· Why not every mortgage allows short-term letting
· How lenders stress test income that only comes in seasonally
· Restrictive covenants, lease restrictions, and who needs to give consent
· Planning permission, the 90 day rule in London, and Article 4 directions elsewhere
· Insurance, and what changes once you have paying guests rather than tenants
· The consequences of breaching your mortgage conditions and what sellers need to provide
Whether you're buying your first investment property or already letting a property out, this episode will help you understand what's allowed, what isn't, and what to sort out before you commit.
References:
Buy to Let Blog Post: https://richardreed.co.uk/short-term-lets-key-risks-and-complications-to-consider/ (https://richardreed.co.uk/short-term-lets-key-risks-and-complications-to-consider/)
Get in touch:
Website: https://richardreed.co.uk/ (https://richardreed.co.uk/)
Phone: 0191 567 0465
Email: info@richardreed.co.uk (mailto:info@richardreed.co.uk)
Connect:
Sarah Reid: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahreid-/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahreid-/)
Steve Lightley: steve.lightley@firstmortgagene.co.uk (mailto:steve.lightley@firstmortgagene.co.uk)
First Mortgage NE
Website: https://www.firstmortgage.co.uk/branches/north-east-england/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=17364676705&utm_term=first%20mortgage%20north%20east&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=17364676705&gbraid=0AAAAAD-hX3Z7WHvTD1cXz4PnoX6nb27Mg&gclid=Cj0KCQjwh4TVBhCWARIsAG0czmq45JLfJfhHcgIyHZFIlz-SahYzTcVVjRTMsU4Pn5Eeua_W6u0TA0caAqhIEALw_wcB (https://www.firstmortgage.co.uk/branches/north-east-england/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=17364676705&utm_term=first%20mortgage%20north%20east&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=17364676705&gbraid=0AAAAAD-hX3Z7WHvTD1cXz4PnoX6nb27Mg&gclid=Cj0KCQjwh4TVBhCWARIsAG0czmq45JLfJfhHcgIyHZFIlz-SahYzTcVVjRTMsU4Pn5Eeua_W6u0TA0caAqhIEALw_wcB)
22 Jul 2026
Family Law, Divorce and Mediation with Matthew Lockey and Sophie Milliken
Family Law, Divorce and Mediation with Matthew Lockey and Sophie Milliken
Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed, the podcast that simplifies the law and explores how it affects our daily lives.
In this episode, Sarah Reid is joined by Matthew Lockey, Head of Private Family Team and Associate Solicitor at Richard Reed Solicitors, and Sophie Milliken, CEO of Moja.
Together, they unpack the realities of family law in England and Wales, from the moment a relationship breaks down through to financial settlement, child arrangements and life on the other side.
They cover what the process actually looks like, what it costs emotionally and practically, and how mediation can offer a faster, less adversarial route for families who want to avoid the courtroom.
Here's what we'll cover in this episode:
What to expect when a marriage or civil partnership breaks down and the steps involved in the legal process.
How divorce proceedings work in practice and what the process looks like from start to finish.
Financial remedy and how courts approach the division of assets, property and pensions.
Child arrangements, parental responsibility, living arrangements and how disputes are resolved.
When court proceedings are necessary and what the process looks like when they are.
The role of mediation and why it is often a quicker, cheaper and less damaging alternative to litigation.
How to choose the right legal support and what to look for in a family law solicitor.
Practical advice on protecting your interests and those of your children from the outset.
This episode is essential listening for anyone navigating the breakdown of a relationship, considering separation, or supporting a friend or family member through the process, and for anyone who wants to understand their rights before they ever need them.
Get in touch:
Website: https://richardreed.co.uk/ (https://richardreed.co.uk/)
Phone: 0191 567 0465
Email: info@richardreed.co.uk (mailto:info@richardreed.co.uk)
Contact Matthew:
https://richardreed.co.uk/team/matthew-lockey/ (https://richardreed.co.uk/team/matthew-lockey/)
https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-lockey-19b04ba3/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-lockey-19b04ba3/)
Resources:
Pathfinder Pilot Scheme Report (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/private-law-pathfinder-pilot-understanding-the-experience-of-children-and-families): research into an approach in some family courts that front‑loads welfare assessment and child‑focused work to streamline cases and improve outcomes for children
Resolution (https://resolution.org.uk/): family law association promoting constructive, amicable approaches.
3 Jun 2026
Navigating Probate and Intestacy with Annaliese Barber & Helena Dar
In this episode, Sarah Reid is joined by Annaliese Barber, Director and Head of Richard Reed Solicitors’ Wills, Trusts, Probate and Court of Protection Department, and Helena Dar, Wills, Trusts and Probate Solicitor at Richard Reed Solicitors.
Together, they cut through the jargon and walk through what actually happens when someone dies, what the law requires, and how to navigate the process without making costly mistakes.
Here's what we'll cover in this episode:
What probate is and when you actually need it.
Who needs to apply and what the process involves.
Understanding intestacy: what happens when someone dies without a will.
The role of executors and administrators, and what's expected of them.
Common mistakes families make and how to avoid them.
When to seek legal advice and why getting it early can save time and money.
This episode is essential listening for anyone who has recently lost a loved one, is helping a family member through the process, or simply wants to understand what will happen to their estate and how to make things as straightforward as possible for the people they leave behind.
Get in touch:
Website: https://richardreed.co.uk/ (https://richardreed.co.uk/)
Phone: 0191 567 0465
Email: info@richardreed.co.uk (mailto:info@richardreed.co.uk)
23 Apr 2026
Updates to the Employment Rights Act with Kat Moody and Nikki Masterman
Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed, the podcast that simplifies the law and explores how it affects our daily lives.
In this episode, Sarah Reid is joined by Employment Law & Dispute Resolution Associate Solicitor Kat Moody and Founder and CEO of Inspired HR, Nikki Masterman.
Together, they break down the Employment Rights Act 2025 and its staged rollout across 2026 and 2027 – one of the biggest shake‑ups in UK employment law in decades.
They explain what’s changing, when it takes effect, and what employers, especially small and medium‑sized businesses, need to be doing now to stay compliant, manage costs and reduce their risk.
Here’s what we’ll cover in this episode:
National minimum wage increases and common compliance pitfalls.
Major reforms to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP), including day‑one rights and removal of the lower earnings limit.
New day‑one rights for paternity and parental leave.
Protecting staff and managing risk.
The creation of the Fair Work Agency and what it could mean for inspections and enforcement.
Unfair dismissal protection after six months’ service.
What employers should be doing now.
This episode is essential listening for employers, HR professionals and employees who want a clear, practical guide to how the new Employment Rights Act will affect workplaces and how to get prepared in good time.
12 Nov 2025
Raising Awareness of Domestic Abuse with Matthew Lockey & Julie Robinson
Associate Solicitor Matthew Lockey and Service Manager Julie Robinson discuss domestic abuse, available legal protections, and the importance of community support, highlighting how legal and emotional support work together in this interview.
22 Oct 2025
Gifts in Wills with Annaliese Barber and Kay Carrick
Annaliese Barber and Kay Carrick discuss the essentials of creating a will and the significant role of charitable giving, including its potential to reduce inheritance tax, in an interview with Richard Reed.
1 Oct 2025
The Legal Implications of Cohabitation with Matthew Lockey & Debra Taylor
Matthew Lockey and Debra Taylor explore the legal distinctions between cohabitation and marriage, clarifying rights concerning finances, children, and separation for unmarried couples in an interview with Sarah Reid.
10 Sept 2025
The Importance of Shareholder Agreements with Phil Moir, Lewis Cassap and Stephen Hope
Host Sarah Reid interviews Phil Moir, Lewis Cassap, and Stephen Hope about why shareholder agreements are crucial for business success and avoiding future complications.
27 Aug 2025
Making Sense of Residential Jargon with Steven Douglas, Nicola Bennell and Graham Hickey
Host Richard Reed interviews Steven Douglas, Nicola Bennell, and Graham Hickey to demystify residential property jargon, empowering listeners with clear explanations for a confident home-buying journey.
30 Jul 2025
Understanding Special Guardianship with Amy Orange
Legal expert Amy Orange elucidates special guardianship within family law, differentiating public and private law, defining orders' purpose, and outlining the application process in an interview with Sarah Reid.
9 Jul 2025
Understanding the Impact of Employment Law Changes with Kat Moody and Nikki Masterman
Host Sarah Reid interviews legal expert Kat Moody and Nikki Masterman, Founder/CEO of Inspired HR, about the UK's Employment Rights Bill, covering key changes, impact on small businesses, and compliance preparations.
18 Jun 2025
The Importance of Lasting Powers of Attorney with Jonny Cockayne and Louise Johnson
Host Sarah Reid interviews legal expert Jonny Cockayne and community outreach officer Louise Johnson about Lasting Powers of Attorney, emphasizing proactive planning and open discussions regarding health, welfare, property, and financial matters.
14 May 2025
Navigating Divorce and Finances with Matthew Lockey
Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed, the podcast that simplifies the law and explores how it affects our daily lives. In this episode, Sarah Reid is joined by legal expert Matthew Lockey to discuss family law, looking at divorce and finances specifically.
Divorce is difficult to navigate. When emotions are high and communication becomes strained, even the most practical decisions can feel overwhelming. From dividing financial assets to making arrangements for children, there’s a lot to consider before finalising the end of a marriage.
Matthew joins Sarah to break down the complexities of finances during divorce, offering clear, practical advice to help anyone navigate the process and ensure no crucial detail is overlooked.
Here’s what we’ll cover in this episode:
What needs to be considered when going through a divorce
What qualifies as marital assets — and what doesn’t
Key legal priorities when settling a divorce
How the courts approach fairness and financial needs
The role of children, property, pensions, and other key factors in the final agreement
Common pitfalls to avoid and tips for reaching an amicable resolution
Whether you're going through a divorce yourself or just want to better understand the process, this episode will guide you through the legal landscape with clear, expert advice.
References:
Resolution: https://resolution.org.uk/ (https://resolution.org.uk/)
101 Questions Answered About Seperating with Children: https://www.familylawpartners.co.uk/resources/101-questions-answered-about-separating-with-children (https://www.familylawpartners.co.uk/resources/101-questions-answered-about-separating-with-children)
Get in touch:
Website: https://richardreed.co.uk/ (https://richardreed.co.uk/)
Phone: 0191 567 0465
Email: info@richardreed.co.uk (mailto:info@richardreed.co.uk)
Connect:
Sarah Reid: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahreid-/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahreid-/)
Matthew Lockey: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-moody-31928a238/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-moody-31928a238/)
30 Apr 2025
Making Work Safer: Employment Law Changes with Kat Moody
Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed, the podcast that simplifies the law and explores how it affects our daily lives. In this episode, Sarah Reid is joined by legal expert Kat Moody to discuss recent changes in employment law, with a particular focus on sexual harassment in the workplace.
The government has committed to making workplaces safer, and a key part of this involves strengthening legislation around sexual harassment to ensure every employee feels safe at all times. Kat joins Sarah to explain what constitutes sexual harassment, how employers can educate themselves on the law to implement effective protections, and what steps an employee should take if they feel at risk in the workplace.
Here’s what we’ll cover in this episode:
Recent changes to employment law
Sexual harassment behaviours to watch for in the workplace
Preventative steps employers can take
How to train staff effectively
Employee rights when addressing sexual harassment at work
The introduction of new third-party sexual harassment legislation
This is a must-listen for both employers and employees seeking to understand how to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace.
Get in touch:
Website: https://richardreed.co.uk/ (https://richardreed.co.uk/)
Phone: 0191 567 0465
Email: info@richardreed.co.uk (mailto:info@richardreed.co.uk)
Connect:
Sarah Reid: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahreid-/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahreid-/)
Kat Moody: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-moody-31928a238/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-moody-31928a238/)
16 Apr 2025
Making Sense of Wills with Annaliese Barber
Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed, the podcast that simplifies the law and explores how it affects our daily lives.
In this episode, host Sarah Reid is joined by legal expert Annaliese Barber. Annaliese is a Director at Richard Reed, a qualified solicitor, Notary Public, and Head of the firm’s Wills, Trusts, Probate & Court of Protection Department.
Today, we’re tackling a subject that’s often overlooked but incredibly important: making a will. Your will determines what happens to your money, property, and personal possessions after your death, yet many people avoid the topic or put it off indefinitely.
Annaliese will explain why having a will is essential, walk us through the process of creating one, and highlight common mistakes to avoid.
In this episode, we’ll cover:
• When to start thinking about making a will
• What to include in your will
• How to create a legally valid will
• When and why to review your will
• What steps to take once it’s written
Tune in to learn how to create a will that’s clear, legally sound, and truly reflects your wishes.
Get in touch:
Website: https://richardreed.co.uk/ (https://richardreed.co.uk/)
Phone: 0191 567 0465
Email: info@richardreed.co.uk (mailto:info@richardreed.co.uk)
Connect:
Sarah Reid: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahreid-/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahreid-/)
Annaliese Barber: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annaliesebarber/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/annaliesebarber/)
Resources:
Association of Lifetime Lawyers: https://www.lifetimelawyers.org.uk/ (https://www.lifetimelawyers.org.uk/)
The Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners: https://www.step.org/ (https://www.step.org/)
Age UK: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/money-legal/end-of-life-planning/ (https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/money-legal/end-of-life-planning/)
2 Apr 2025
Buying Your First Home with Nicola Bennell & Hannah Parton
Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed, the podcast that simplifies the law and explores how it affects our daily lives. In this episode, Sarah Reid is joined by legal experts Nicola Bennell and Hannah Parton for a practical discussion on buying your first home.
Purchasing a property is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make, and it can feel overwhelming if you're doing it for the first time. Nicola and Hannah are here to clear up the confusion and answer some of the most common questions first-time buyers face.
Here’s what we’ll cover in this episode:
When to start booking house viewings
Key things to look for during a viewing
The right time to involve a solicitor
How to find the right legal support
A step-by-step breakdown of the home-buying process
Whether you're just starting your property search or getting ready to make an offer, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you feel confident and prepared on your journey to homeownership.
Get in touch:
Website: https://richardreed.co.uk/ (https://richardreed.co.uk/)
Phone: 0191 567 0465
Email: info@richardreed.co.uk (mailto:info@richardreed.co.uk)
Connect:
Sarah Reid: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahreid-/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahreid-/)
Nicola Bennell: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-bennell-3279bb195/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-bennell-3279bb195/)
Hannah Parton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-parton-835372172/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-parton-835372172/)
19 Mar 2025
The Housing Act & 2025 Renters Bill Explained with Phil Moir & Kat Moody
Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed, the podcast that simplifies the law and explores how it affects our daily lives. In this episode, Sarah Reid is joined by legal experts Phil Moir and Kat Moody to break down the Housing Act and discuss the 2025 changes to the Renters Bill.
If you're a landlord, tenant, or someone interested in property law, this episode is packed with valuable insights on eviction laws, possession processes, and how to navigate legal changes effectively.
What we’ll cover in this episode...
Grounds for eviction – Section 8 vs. Section 21 and recent updates
The possession process for landlords
Common mistakes landlords make and how to avoid them
The impact of the 2025 Renters Bill and what landlords need to know
Why legal advice is crucial for landlords navigating possession cases
Tune in if you’re a landlord facing challenges with a tenant, and remember, legal guidance is key.
Get in touch:
Website: https://richardreed.co.uk/ (https://richardreed.co.uk/)
Phone: 0191 567 0465
Email: info@richardreed.co.uk (mailto:info@richardreed.co.uk)
Connect:
Sarah Reid: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahreid-/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahreid-/)
Kat Moody: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-moody-31928a238/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-moody-31928a238/)
Phil Moir: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-moir-729b9022/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-moir-729b9022/)
Resources:
Guide to the Renters’ Rights Bill - (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guide-to-the-renters-rights-bill/82ffc7fb-64b0-4af5-a72e-c24701a5f12a)GOV.UK (http://GOV.UK)
Renters' Rights Bill - Parliamentary Bills - UK Parliament (https://bills.parliament.uk/bills/3764)
13 Mar 2025
Legally Sound with Richard Reed Trailer
Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed – the podcast where we dive into the intricacies of the law and uncover how the justice system impacts our daily lives.
Join us as we break down complex legal topics with the help of experienced legal professionals, making the world of law easier to understand and navigate. From family law to employment law, we’ll explore issues that touch everyone at some point in their lives.
I’m Sarah Reid, Managing Director and Solicitor at Richard Reed Solicitors. Throughout this series, my team from Richard Reed will join me to share their insights, practical advice, and tips from their areas of legal expertise.
Who has been a guest on Legally Sound with Richard Reed
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Matthew Lockey
Julie Robinson
Annaliese Barber
Kay Carrick
Debra Taylor
Podcast Authority Score: 9 / 100
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Questions about Legally Sound with Richard Reed
Who hosts Legally Sound with Richard Reed?
Sarah Reid and Richard Reed host the show. Published by Richard Reed solicitors.
How often do new episodes come out?
The show publishes monthly, based on its RSS feed.
Does Legally Sound with Richard Reed take guests?
Yes. Guests have been identified in episode analyses.
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