What, this old thing? I’ve had it for years!

I was getting dressed up in my favourite little black number the other day (as a regular court goer I have quite a few!) when my other half commented on how good I looked (that’s why it’s my favourite!) and asked if it was new.  Without thinking, I’m already explaining not only how old it was, but what a bargain it was, which is completely ridiculous.  I earn my own money and I’m free to spend it how I like.   I don’t have to justify it to anyone, and he certainly wouldn’t expect me to.  Nevertheless, that’s what I do automatically, and I know I’m not the only woman who does this.

In my experience, this is largely a female thing.  Men often tend to be more confident on their spending habits and are more likely to be proud of the new car they bought, or the new set of golf clubs they’ve just invested in, and why not.  If you work hard, either in the office or in running the home, why shouldn’t you be able to talk about what you’ve done with your money.

In legal terms, however, men and women are often equal in terms of their desire to play their cards close to their chest.  Sometimes that can be a good thing.  You don’t necessarily want the other side to know that you think you are about to be offered a great new job if you are negotiating an exit package from your current employer.  If it’s litigation, and you’re dealing with things like disclosure, then an open and up front strategy is always best.  All relevant documents must be disclosed, even the ones that don’t help your case, or hurt it!  Property transactions are the most interesting ones.  This tends to be where people can get a bit paranoid about what to tell the purchaser or what to ask of the vendor.  It is important to know everything and it’s vital that you are completely honest with your solicitor so they can advise you on what the other side need to know. As with litigation a failure to answer questions properly and give correct information can give rise to a very big claim in damages.

If you are buying or selling a property and would like some information about what’s involved and what you need to know, drop me a line at stephanie@kleymansolicitors.com and I’ll fill in the blanks for you.  I’ll buy something new to wear specially!

Kleyman & Co Solicitors.  The full service law firm.  Good advice never goes out of fashion.