#law firms in london

[hudsonmckenzie]

Big challenges in front law firms in London

In recent times, the dynamics of the UK’s legal sector have changed considerably. At one end, they all seem to uplift the level of services and value for client, whereas, at the other end, they present new challenges for corporate law firms in London. Let’s take a look at them.

Service levels

According to the Report, the most general complaints reported were associated with delays, deficiency of competence and neglect which were made direct to law firms (called as first tier complaints).

Conveyancing work invited the majority of complaints reported to the SRA and the Legal Ombudsman2 and grievances to the Legal Ombudsman in consideration to improper communication and delay have increased.

Why is this concern?

The level of service expected of solicitors is extremely high. In addition, SRA Principle 5 mentions that you must enablean appropriate standard of service to your clients.

Important actions

Guarantee that your client care detail is concrete and concise, with major areas highlighted and the firm’s complaints procedure clearly accessible

Deal with your client’s expectations about their choices and keep them aware of progress

Agree the services and the costs from the onset and uphold clients knowledgeable on operating costs

Make sure that you can determine susceptible clients and provide required information and support suitable to their needs

Complaints must be handled promptly, justly, amenably and effectively.

Data security

Corporate Law firms in London manage huge amounts of client and sensitive data which is striking to cyber criminals. Should this information bring into the improper hands it can be detrimental to both your clients’ interests and your firm’s reputation. Data breaches can come out in various ways and cyber crime is a general cause for such breaches, but it is necessary to recall written and verbal communications also pose a risk. A report on data security accidenttrends from the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) reveals that for all domains for the first quarter of 2018 they got 284 reports of data being sent to the wrong person by email, post or fax.

Cyber security

A related theme is the disturbing rise in cyber security risk across the legal sector. The legal occupation is striking to criminals as law firms carry vast amounts of client money and personal data at any one time, both of which are clearly valued assets to cyber criminals and law firms in London.

Key Actions

Execute policies and procedures that need to be dealt with

How and when crucial information should be carried out of the office

Determine clear reporting policies so employees know who to report such issues to

With the surge of nimble working, make sure that you have released and communicated a Working from Home Policy that also includes the management of sensitive documents

Ensure all members of staff are properly trained to be animated to the risks from cybercrime and scams

A procedure for dealing with lost or stolen documents, laptops and smartphones.  This preferably should be set out within your firm’s Business Continuity Plan

Run a Clear Desk Policy

[whitehorselaw]

Human Rights Law Firms in London - White Horse Solicitors & Notary

When it comes to defending your fundamental freedoms, finding the right legal representation is crucial. White Horse Solicitors & Notary is one of the leading human rights law firms in London, dedicated to protecting your rights in an ever-evolving legal landscape. Our experienced team of solicitors specialises in areas like discrimination, unlawful detention, freedom of expression, and more.

We understand that human rights cases are sensitive and require a compassionate approach, which is why we work closely with our clients to ensure that their voices are heard. Whether you're a victim of discrimination at work or facing wrongful treatment, we provide personalised legal advice and support every step of the way.

At White Horse Solicitors & Notary, we believe that everyone deserves justice. Our approach blends deep legal knowledge with a commitment to your cause, ensuring you have the best chance at a successful resolution. If you're seeking legal help in human rights matters, our team in London is here to fight for you.

[tenth-sentence]

They had offices in Tokyo and London.

"The Pelican Brief" - John Grisham

[globallegalassociation]

GLA (Global Legal Association) Litigation Event in Dubai serve as a premier platform for legal professionals to converge, collaborate, and exchange insights on the evolving landscape of litigation. This event attracts a diverse array of participants, including attorneys, judges, legal scholars, and corporate counsel from around the globe.

Participants engage in a series of panels, workshops, and networking sessions, focusing on pressing legal issues and innovative strategies in litigation. Topics often cover international arbitration, commercial disputes, regulatory challenges, and the integration of technology in legal practices.

Esteemed speakers, including leading practitioners and thought leaders, share their expertise, fostering discussions that inspire new approaches to complex legal challenges..

With its focus on the future of litigation, this event is essential for anyone looking to stay ahead in the fast-paced legal landscape. By attending, legal professionals gain invaluable insights and tools that empower them to navigate the complexities of litigation in an increasingly interconnected world.

Address-

Global Legal Association

Suite-427,425 Broadhollow Road,

Melville, New York, USA- 11747

US: +1 716 941 7798

Mail id: events@globallegalassociation.org

Website: https://www.globallegalassociation.org/event-dubai-litigation

[thebutchprinxe]

the way i just reviewed a taylor swift itinerary for my job ????? lmfao ???????

[lexlawuk]

Your Guide to the Skilled Worker Visa in the UK

The Skilled Worker Visa serves as a gateway to the United Kingdom for individuals worldwide, offering a pathway to secure employment and potential settlement. Embracing diversity and talent, this visa route welcomes skilled professionals from diverse backgrounds, fostering growth and innovation within the UK workforce. Let’s explore the Skilled Worker Visa in detail, from eligibility requirements…

[brandsmiths]

How to Navigate Trademark Protection in a Global Market: A Comprehensive Guide

Safeguarding your brand's identity and assets has become paramount. Intellectual property (IP) law, particularly trademark protection, serves as a fortress in defending your brand from infringement, counterfeiting, and unauthorised use. Brandsmiths, a leading litigation company specialising in intellectual property law, understands the complexities involved in this landscape and is committed to guiding businesses through the intricate maze of global trademark protection. Here's a complete guide to steer your brand through the labyrinth of global trademark protection:

Understanding Intellectual Property Law in a Global Context

In the modern digital era, businesses transcend geographical boundaries, requiring comprehensive trademark protection strategies. Intellectual property solicitors play a pivotal role in safeguarding brands by offering expertise in IP law, ensuring your trademarks are shielded across jurisdictions. Brandsmiths, a renowned intellectual property law firm, recognises the nuances of global IP law and assists clients in navigating this intricate terrain.

The Terrain of Global Trademarks:

Before embarking on the journey of trademark protection, it's crucial to comprehend the landscape. Each country boasts its distinct trademark laws and registration procedures, rendering the process complex and multifaceted. Start by conducting a thorough trademark search to ensure your mark is available for use and registration in your target markets. This involves scrutinising existing trademarks, both registered and unregistered, to avoid potential infringement issues.

Crafting a Robust Strategy:

A holistic trademark protection strategy is indispensable for global expansion. Begin by prioritising markets based on business potential and trademark-friendly jurisdictions. Filing for trademark registration in these territories should align with your expansion timeline to secure your brand's identity pre-emptively.

Nurturing International Relationships:

Forge alliances with legal experts well-versed in global trademark laws. Collaborating with experienced attorneys specialising in international trademark protection can be invaluable. They offer guidance on the nuances of each jurisdiction, facilitate seamless registrations, and provide counsel on navigating potential disputes.

Leveraging International Treaties:

Explore the benefits of international treaties like the Madrid Protocol and the Nice Agreement. These treaties streamline the process of obtaining trademark protection across multiple countries by enabling a single application process. Leveraging such treaties can economise resources and simplify the often convoluted process of global trademark registration.

Adapting to Cultural Nuances:

Understanding cultural diversities is pivotal in global branding. A mark that resonates profoundly in one region might bear a different connotation in another. Prioritise comprehensive market research to ascertain the cultural implications of your trademark. Adaptability and flexibility in branding strategies can mitigate potential pitfalls and ensure a resonant connection with diverse audiences.

Vigilance and Enforcement:

Securing trademark registration is just the initial step; vigilance and enforcement are ongoing imperatives. Regular monitoring of trademarks in various jurisdictions is critical to address any potential infringements swiftly. Establishing a robust enforcement strategy enables prompt action against unauthorised usage, safeguarding your brand's integrity and market share.

Continuous Evolution:

The global market is in a perpetual state of change, demanding continuous evolution in trademark protection strategies. Periodic reviews and updates to your portfolio, in alignment with market shifts and regulatory changes, fortify your brand's protection and resilience.

Conclusion

In the global market, trademark protection stands as an indispensable fortress safeguarding a brand's identity. Navigating this terrain mandates meticulous planning, a profound understanding of international laws, and a proactive approach. Embrace the complexities as opportunities to fortify your brand's presence globally. Engage expert guidance, adapt swiftly, and vigilantly safeguard your trademarks to ensure your brand continues to thrive amidst the diverse, competitive global market.

If you’re looking for trademark litigation services, Brandsmiths is the place to go. Brandsmiths specialise in navigating the intricate realm of trademark protection in the global market. With their expertise and dedication, the company safeguards your brand's identity, empowering it to flourish in diverse landscapes.

[gwhsolitcitors]

Turn your startup dreams into reality with the UK Startup Visa. Trust our guidance to navigate the immigration process, for your entrepreneurial venture.

[hudsonmckenzie]

What is the best time to connect with the London immigration lawyers?

No single person loves visiting the court for any matter. Be it a family issue or a corporate scenario, people want quicker and powerful solutions. In general, people visit court only in case of litigation or any other matter that need court intervention. But on the other end, a business may come across numerous matters that were related to legal consultation. And this doesn’t always mean that you would have to visit court but there are many issues where having a legal expert would be an added advantage.

Let’s understand this with an example. If you’re a product manufacturer and you come to discover that another firm has been imitating your trademark and other intellectual properties to sell its products. In that case, you need to file a legal case against the firm and seek recompence for the suffered loss. And it is not possible for a layman to gain needed knowledge and get things done. This is a situation where only a legal professional could help. Today, most of the big firms consult with London immigration lawyers to seek legal advice for immigration-related matters.

From managing human resource concerns to consumer rights and business management issues, these law firms in London are capable of assisting you at every step of business management. While you definitely don’t need an attorney for every step of running your business, a jot of prevention is worth a pound of the cure.

Most of the issues can be managed by a smart business owner (if you can run a business, you can certainly fill out IRS forms or fill in boilerplate business forms). There are cases, however, when a business encounters issues that are too intricate, too time consuming, or fraught with liability issues. At such a point, the wisest move is to retain a business lawyer.

For example:

Former, current, or prospective employees suing on the grounds of discrimination in hiring, firing, or hostile work environment

Local, state, or federal government entities filing complaints or investigating your business for violation of any laws.

You want to make a special allocation of profits and losses or to contribute appreciated property to your partnership or LLC agreement

An environmental concern emerges and your business is involved (even if your business didn’t cause the environmental problem, you may be reprimanded)

Negotiating for the sale of your company or for the acquisition of another company or its assets While you unquestionably need to retain an attorney for the serious issues mentioned above, your focus should be placed on preventing such incidents in the first place. Prevention does not essentially involve hiring an attorney, though consulting with one wouldn’t hurt. By the time you or your business is sued, the avoidable damage has been done and the only question that remains is how much you’ll be paying in the form of attorney’s fees, court fees, and damages.

To avoid needless attorney costs at the inception of your business as well as incredible costs after a lawsuit has been filed, you might consider a consultation arrangement with an attorney. Such an arrangement would involve you doing most of the research of research and the attorney providing legal review or supervision.

[whitehorselaw]

In a world where human rights violations still persist, finding the right legal support is crucial to ensure justice prevails. Whether it’s issues related to social equality, education, healthcare, or any other area where your rights are at stake, having an experienced human rights solicitor by your side can make all the difference. At White Horse Solicitors & Notary Services, we understand the significance of human rights and are dedicated to upholding them. In this blog, we will explore the importance of human rights law firms in London and how our team of expert human rights solicitors can assist you in protecting your rights.

[actlegal]

Solicitors Brighton

Looking for reliable solicitors Brighton? Look no further than ACT Legal. Whether you require assistance with property law, family law, employment law, or any other legal matter, our knowledgeable solicitors are here to guide you through the complexities of the legal system. We understand that legal issues can be daunting, but our friendly and approachable team will ensure that you receive clear and practical advice throughout the process.

Trust ACT Legal to be your reliable partner in navigating the legal complexities with confidence.

[thelegistsuk]

Discover Paralegal Jobs in London at The Legists

Get exciting paralegal job opportunities in London with one of the world's leading legal hubs The Legists. We will help you find work alongside esteemed solicitors and barristers, assisting with case management, drafting legal documents, and providing critical support to legal proceedings. For more details, feel free to visit the website.

[prenuplawyeruk]

Law firms swindon

Looking for top law firms in Swindon? Discover expert legal advice and tailored solutions for your needs. Whether it's business law, family matters, or property issues, find the right legal partner in Swindon. Your trusted local law firm is just a call away. #SwindonLaw #LegalAdvice

[zepskies]

BETWEEN THE CITY & THE STARS - Part 1

Pairing: Dean Winchester x Reader

Summary: In the fall of 1945, Dean is having a difficult time assimilating back into civilian life after the War. He’s visiting his brother Sam in New York City, where he’s beginning to build up his law firm. At two minutes to closing time, you interrupt their evening to solicit a solicitor. Your request? You need help in order to divorce your husband.

AN: My day tomorrow is going to be a bit packed, so I decided to release this a bit early for you guys! So here we go! The first chapter of yet another new series, my first ever 1940s AU. 🥰 I hope you have fun on this one, because I sure did. Again, very much inspired by The Clock (1945), starring Judy Garland and Robert Walker. 💜

Prompt for @jacklesversebingo: Historical Epic

Song Inspo: For this chapter it’s “Cry Me a River” by Ella Fitzgerald

Word Count: 3.9K

Tags/Warnings: Angst, mentions of cheating, PTSD, historical tidbits

✨ Series Masterlist

🎵 YouTube Playlist || Spotify Playlist

Part 1: Legal Grounds

November 2, 1945

Dean idly read the pamphlet stacked with others on his brother’s desk, which advertised his new and successful enterprise.

Law Offices of Winchester, Bialystock & Bloom

What do you know? His brother had his own office, his own business, and his name on a pamphlet.

Dean couldn’t help but curl a finger around a steel ball on the abacus sitting at the head of the mahogany desk, right next to Sam’s nameplate.

He let it fly. The abacus began to clack as one ball hit the other.

Sam looked up from the deposition he was writing to give his brother a wry brow raise.

“So this is what you do, huh?” Dean remarked, crossing his arms.

Without his jacket, his suspenders were on display over his shoulders. His red pinstripe tie was still in place, but his white dress shirt was rolled up to the elbows. Meanwhile, his brother preferred to keep himself more presentable with his sleeves down to his wrists. Jacket on.    

Dean glanced around the office, nodding at the line of bookshelves behind Sam, framing him as the bookish academic he’d always been. There was limited seating in here though, just a spare chair in front of the desk, and another to the right of it. Dean stood on the opposite side.

“If you’re bored, all you have to do is say so,” Sam said. “Which is strange, considering we’re smack dab in the middle of a city that never sleeps.”

He was right, Dean could concede. His little brother had given him a veritable list of things to do in New York City: visit the park, go to the zoo, see a picture show, visit a nightclub, or sample a host of restaurants that Sam knew Dean would probably enjoy.

He’d seen a lot of this place in the week that he’d been here visiting Sam, but a good deal of it he’d either spent alone, or with any willing young lady Dean came across, thanks to the demands of this office. If he was honest, entertaining young ladies was eating into the wallet in his trouser pocket, and the hustle and bustle was starting to be a little much for him.

“You don’t get tired of it?” Dean asked, gesturing to the out there beyond them. “The, uh…the lights, the noise, all the people?”

Sam picked his head up from his paperwork to consider the question. “No, I like it. Keeps my mind busy, and…I guess it makes me feel alive, you know?”

Dean supposed he could understand that, so he nodded.

Sam wasn’t fooled though. He thought he could tell what was running through his brother’s head, watching him fidget, and turn his head a bit sharply when a bus honked loudly outside the office’s glass doors as it thundered past.

It had only been two months since the end of the war. Two months since he and Dean met back in their family home in Lawrence, Kansas after three years fighting on two different fronts, in two different countries.

Both of them had enlisted, but Sam had spent most of his time in London while he was deployed, helping British Intelligence. Dean had clawed his way out of Normandy, and later, out of the Ardennes—the last offensive before the end.

Their experiences might as well have been worlds apart, but one thing remained the same: it had been three years in which neither brother knew if they’d see each other again.

Now, Sam saw the signs. Dean seemed a bit jumpy, overstimulated, but willing to be here to spend a little more time with Sam before he went back home. Guilt prickled in Sam’s gut. 

“I’ve got some work here to finish up, but afterwards let’s go to dinner,” he suggested. “Maybe see a show?”

Dean’s lips flickered at a smile. “You’re burning both ends of the candle. You know that, right?”

Sam opened his mouth to reply, when there was a knock on one of the glass doors—at the entrance to the small building. Their heads turned, and through the open door of his office, they spotted you standing there in the evening light. You wore a wide-brimmed hat on your head and a scarf underneath, wrapped over your hair and under your chin to shield your face. You knocked again with a hand covered by a leather glove, more persistently.

Cocking his head in confusion, Sam stood from his desk and left the room to let you in. Dean hung back and sat on the corner of the desk to wait. He withdrew a cigarette from the pack and a lighter from his pocket as he did so, but he heard you talking with his brother by the door.

“I’m sorry. We’re closed, miss,” Sam informed you.

“It’s still two minutes until closing. At least, according to my watch.”

“…Well, I suppose you’ve got me there.”

“So can I come in? I need to speak to a lawyer.”

“You sure it can’t wait until tomorrow?”

“I’m afraid it can’t, sir.” Your tone was firm, and it more than implied that you wouldn’t be moved. Sam paused then, perhaps to take a steeling breath.

“All right. Come with me, please.”

You later followed behind him through the hallway and into the office. With a lit cigarette between his fingers, his arms crossed, Dean took note of you. He subtly glanced down at your crème-colored blouse, neatly tucked into the long, burgundy skirt (with lipstick to match), your modest, classy heels, and the way you wore your hair. His brows subtly raised. He’d met quite a few girls this week, but he hadn’t seen a lady like you in quite some time.

Should’ve shaved this morning. The thought was accompanied by the way he swiped a subtle hand over his prickly chin.

You gave him a cursory glance in turn, and offered a polite, “Hello.”

He stood from the desk and switched his cigarette to his other hand, so he could shake yours.

“Hey there. Dean Winchester,” he said. He offered a smile with no small amount of charm. “Pleased to meet you…”

You dutifully gave him your first name only. He found that a little strange, but you soon slipped your hand out of his and focused on the nameplate on the desk, followed by Sam himself.

“So you’re brothers,” you realized. “Do you work together?”

Dean scoffed. “Nope, I’m just here to distract him.”

Sam tossed him a sidelong glance. There was a subtle edge of bitter truth in there somewhere, and you didn’t seem to miss it. You looked between the two men, a hint wary.

“Well, as I said, I’m here to speak to the solicitor,” you said. 

“That would be me,” Sam nodded. He went to his desk and sat down behind it, gesturing for you to do the same in front of him. You obliged him, smoothing your hands down your skirt once you were seated. “How can I help you?”

You met his eyes with a directness that surprised him a little.

“I want to divorce my husband,” you said.

To say it shocked the room would be an understatement. Behind you, Dean gave his brother a pair of raised brows. Sam didn’t allow himself to react too much in order to remain professional, but he still tilted his head, blinking, before he focused on you again.

“What’s your husband’s name?” he asked.

“Michael. Michael Milligan.”

“Why do you want a divorce, Mrs. Milligan?” 

Here, your gaze fell to the folded hands in your lap. 

“I have reason to believe he’s been unfaithful,” you quietly replied.

Once again, there was a pregnant pause.

“I’m sorry to hear that,” Sam said. His sympathy was genuine, because he could see the way you’d hesitated to say the words, like they embarrassed you, shamed you, and saddened you all at once. 

“But I have to ask,” he added, “do you have proof?”

Dean glanced his way, his brow raising once again. Sam knew what he was thinking, just as he saw how you frowned as well. But there was a reason why he asked, and it wasn’t to be unkind.

You sighed. “What kind of proof?” 

“Pictures. Letters. A witness. Something of legal standing that we can use as leverage and as grounds to grant you a divorce, whether he wants it or not,” Sam said. 

You let out another heavy breath through your nose. “No, I don’t have anything like that.”

“Then what makes you so sure he’s steppin’ out?” Dean chimed in. By now he was leaning against the wall, off to the side where he could smoke with the window cracked open. It let in the sounds of cars and distant honking, people traversing the sidewalks. 

You turned in your seat to give him a tight look. “If you must know, there’ve been…signs. I won’t trouble you with the details, but I’m sure.”

You met Dean’s gaze, and then Sam’s firmly. 

“So will you help me?” you asked him. Sam nodded.

“Yes, I’ll look into your husband and try to find some evidence of his…extracurricular affairs.”

Your lips pursed. “And how long will it take?”

Since you were being so direct, Sam levelled you with honesty.

“It may take time,” he said. “Realistically, we’re looking at months, even after I find what we need… It would be easier to legally separate.”

You had been slowly deflating the more he spoke, but now your expression became stony.

“Mr. Winchester,” you began. “I don’t want to just be separated. I don’t want to live in our apartment, let alone share his bed or wear his last name.”

Despite your best efforts, your voice began to shake. Tears welled up and stung in your eyes.

“I don’t want anything from him, other than his signature on the damn papers,” you said. “The case is that I can no longer tolerate that man in my sight, much less in my life. Will you help me? Or should I look for another lawyer who will actually do his job.”

Sam and Dean shared a glance. For his part, Dean couldn’t remember the last time he heard a woman curse. Despite your outburst, the tears clinging to your lashes stirred both men.

“I understand, Mrs. Milligan,” Sam said. “I’ll help you. Don’t worry.”

He began to look for his handkerchief, but you retrieved one of your own from your purse and quickly dabbed at your eyes, sniffling. You were embarrassed.

“What about your fee?” you said, withdrawing your checkbook. “I, um…I have a little money stashed away. I’ve always worked, you see.”

Sam nodded and went over what his rate would be going forward. Once the two of you came to an agreement, you signed the first check right then and there, even though he felt bad for even taking it from you.

You were still sniffling, and twice you dabbed under your eyes to make sure your face was dry. When you handed over the check, your hands shook, just a little. Sam wouldn’t tell you that he discounted his usual rate.  

Again, he mentioned that he would need some time first to investigate your husband and begin collecting evidence for your case. He asked you for any documents you could safely bring him of your finances, for example. You agreed to do an investigation of your own.

“Just be careful,” Dean cautioned. He was getting an idea of what kind of man your husband was, but Dean couldn’t be too sure of what the man was capable of. He’d hate to hear of a girl like you getting hurt over a few papers.

Dean put out the bud of his cigarette on the ashtray lying on the windowsill. He pushed off the wall to approach where you and Sam were getting to your feet. You gave Dean a nod of acknowledgement.

“I will,” you agreed. “Thank you both. I’m sorry I’ve taken up so much of your time, but I’ll be heading home now.”

“Did you take a bus or a taxi?” Sam asked.

“Oh, I walked,” you replied, and you checked your watch as you gathered up your purse. You headed for the coatrack, but Dean got there first, helping you into your beige wool coat. It went nicely with the burgundy you had on, namely on your painted lips.

“Thank you,” you said to him, but you still didn’t smile. You were a hint demurer now. It seemed with Sam’s promised help, the fire had dimmed behind your eyes and your tongue.

“How about I give you an escort, make sure you get home okay?” Dean found himself offering. “It’s getting pretty late on a Friday.”

Sam shot him a knowing look, but Dean ignored him, instead focusing on your face.

You hesitated. “It’s a bit far though. Out of your way, I’m sure.”

“All the more reason that you shouldn’t go it alone at this time of night,” he argued.

You considered his offer, and him, with a quick perusal. You seemed to be judging for yourself if he was trustworthy. Dean kept his posture straight, yet relaxed. Maybe he’d liked what he saw the moment he took you in, but after hearing your situation, he felt for you. It really was just an honest offer to walk you home.

“Where did you serve?” you asked. “The Army, the Navy, or the Air Forces?”

The question took him off guard for a beat, but he answered you.

“The Army,” he replied.

“Your rank?”

“I was a sergeant, ma’am.”

You looked at him a little more shrewdly, then you relaxed.

“I might’ve guessed,” you said. “All right, Sergeant. Let’s go then.”

You buttoned up your coat and turned to leave the office. Dean shot his little brother a raise of his brows and a what do ya know? kind of smile. He grabbed his dark brown jacket and hat and followed you out.

Sam’s smile was more reserved, with a shake of his head. He closed the door behind you and Dean and locked it. He still had some work he wanted to finish before tomorrow, and Dean’s little show of chivalry would give him time to do it.

Dean had his hands in his coat pockets as he walked with you down the long city sidewalk. Night had drawn into the November sky, but with all these lights, he couldn’t see many stars. It was also cold as all hell. The frigid wind slapped at him every time they turned the corner of a building, snapping right into his bones.

Still, he supposed there was a kind of attractiveness to the city at night. The stores and their signs were all lit up gold and other neon colors. Couples and families walked together, all done up nice for wherever dinner reservation or movie they were trying to get to. It begged the question of what your husband was doing right now if he didn’t notice his wife out at this time of night.

“Where’s your husband tonight, if I might ask?” said Dean.

You shot him a look, reading between his lines.

“He claims to be working late virtually every night of the weekdays,” you said, “but he usually comes home stinking of alcohol.” Your eyes dimmed, even with the pretty lights shining in them. “He was in the Army as well. A corporal. He’s had a hard time adjusting to being back home, and I know that… He doesn’t sleep very well. And do you know, he had a hard time finding work for a while too. Luckily, he has his father’s business to fall back on.”

Dean tried not to show how much your words resonated with him. He didn’t think it a good thing to have common ground with your husband, if he was the kind of man you said he was.

“Yeah? What’s his business?” he asked.

“He manages a meat production plant, of all things,” you said.

“Ah, located in the Meat Packing District, I presume?”

“You’d presume right.”

Dean nodded. “I get it. I inherited the family home back in Lawrence. I just need to figure out what’s next.”

“Lawrence?”

“Kansas.”

“Oh, the Midwest,” you inclined your head. “What’s it like there?”

Dean scoffed. “Dusty.”

You almost laughed at that. At least it earned him your first smile of the night.

“Do you have an idea of what you’ll do for work?” you asked.

Dean chuckled. “Not just yet. Didn’t plan that far, you know?”

“Why not?” you asked.

“Hmm. Guess I didn’t see the point,” he replied with a mild shrug. It hid a deeper, darker well inside him. The part of him that hadn’t thought he’d make it back home after the war.  

You turned to him then, and you saw it behind his eyes. The two of you walked in silence for a little while as the neighborhood blocks began to shift and change, becoming somewhat quieter, more residential. Dean put himself between you and the sidewalk when a taxi zoomed by too close to the curb, resting a hand on the small of your back for protection.

Part of you trilled inside at the small touch, but you immediately beat that reaction down. Dean Winchester was an attractive man, to be sure. His hair was a lighter brown than his brother’s, and shorter too. He had an air of roguishness about him, even though he’d been perfectly pleasant so far.

But by the way he eyed you when you came into the law office, you had a strong feeling he was a flirt. You had no room for that in your life, and not only because you were still a married woman.

Yet, there was something about him that…well, made you curious.

“I was a nurse,” you said eventually, earning his attention. “I was there when they liberated Paris.”

Dean turned to you with newfound interest lighting his green eyes. “You were at Normandy.”

You nodded. “For a while. Almost a year before D-Day.”

Dean let out a short, if humorless chuckle, running a hand through his hair.

“Well, that’s where I was. At that time, at least,” he said. "By the end, D-Day was just one of a lot of days."

You gave him a similar look; respect, and perhaps finding a kindred spirit.

“I did what I could do before, during, and afterwards,” you said. “I think that’s all we can do now, Mr. Winchester.”

“Call me Dean,” he said. “If you like.”

A second smile almost tugged at your lips. You nodded in agreement.

“Dean,” you said.

In another ten minutes, he was walking you up to your porch at your apartment building. You travelled up the four small steps, while Dean stopped at the second one. For the first time, you had the vantage point above him as you turned on your heel to face him. You were about to thank him when he shook his head, scoffing.

“This guy must be dumb, deaf, and blind, sweetheart,” he said.

Your face warmed in a blush, and you gave a rueful smile when you realized what he meant. He was looking up at you like someone who couldn’t understand your plight. You knew the feeling.

“That’s kind of you, but you don’t have to do that,” you said.  

His brows furrowed. “Do what?” 

“Try to make me feel better,” you said, scuffing the toe of your sensible heels against the brick platform. Dean crossed his arms. 

“Why not?” he asked.

“Because the fact of the matter is, Sergeant, words don’t move me anymore.” You picked up your gaze from the ground, and you met his. “Flattery is just a pretty way of lying, and I’ve grown to really, truly hate lying.” 

It took him a moment, but Dean nodded.

“I guess that’s fair,” he said. He had to stop himself before he proved your point with a smart word on your pretty smile. Although, it wouldn’t have been a lie. He tipped his hat up. “Goodnight then, Mrs. Milligan.” 

You stopped him from leaving with just your voice. 

“Please,” you said, your eyes briefly closing. “Just…call me by my name. My first name.” 

Dean slowly smiled. “Perfect. I like your name better anyway.” 

This time, your smile in return was genuine, if tinged with amusement. 

“Goodnight, Dean,” you replied.

He gave you a charming grin and a more casual soldier’s salute. Then he stuck his hands back in his pockets, turned on his heel, and began to walk back the way he came. You couldn’t help but watch him go for a second or two. His legs were slightly bowed under his slacks, you noticed.

With a blush, you shook your head to rid yourself of those silly thoughts. You closed the door.

That night, Michael came home late, as usual—this time at two in the morning. He reeked of alcohol, also per usual, but this time when he rolled over towards you in bed to say goodnight, you stiffened. He also smelled like a woman’s perfume. Expensive stuff. 

This was one of those signs you hadn’t wanted to tell Sam Winchester. Frankly, it was crude and embarrassing.

“Sorry it’s so late, darling. Got held up,” he said, kissing your shoulder through your nightgown. His fingers played with the ends of your hair while you laid facing away from him.

You squeezed your eyes shut. You were fighting every instinct you had inside you that wanted to recoil from his touch and bolt out of the bed. When just a few months ago, his touch was all you craved, almost desperately so. 

“Where were you?” you asked. Somehow, you kept your voice steady and calm. “You weren’t at the office all this time.”

“Had a couple of drinks with the guys after,” he said with a shrug. “Sorry. The night got away from us, but, uh…I’ll be home on time for dinner tomorrow.”

With your back turned to him, you were able to roll your eyes.

“What’d you make tonight, outta curiosity?” he asked.

“Egg salad sandwiches,” you replied flatly. 

“Hmm. No real loss there then.” 

Your teeth clenched. “If I thought you were actually going to be home when you said you would, maybe I would make a rump roast with all the fixings.” 

Michael paused, but then, he grasped your shoulder, slowly turned you around in the bed until you were facing him. His face was sterner. 

“Excuse me?” 

You remained quiet. Your gaze travelled downwards, avoiding his.

Michael huffed, shaking his head. “Sometimes you got a real mouth on you. One of these days, you just might regret it.” 

He turned his back on you, laying on his side. You did the same while trying to stem your tears.

When did this become your life?

AN: Oof, sorry for all that angst at the end there, but I hope you liked the first chapter! Did you enjoy soldier!Dean and soldier/lawyer!Sam? Do you want to find a dark alley for Michael yet? 😅

And are you ready for what's coming up next? 😘

Next Time:

Dean both could and couldn’t believe it. He might not have been a saint himself when it came to the fairer sex, but if he went through the whole ordeal of marrying one, let alone a straight-shooting woman like you, beautiful, clever…

“Geez,” he muttered. “He could’ve at least waited until the ink dried on the certificate.” 

Sam nodded in agreement. He picked up the receipt to the Cotton Club, and he shot his brother a grin.

“Wanna go to the club tonight?”

▶️ Keep Reading: PART 2

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