Corporate liability rules change: what do businesses need to know?

20.07.26 20.07.26

In this edition of Ashfords' business bulletin, our experts provide businesses with essential updates on the latest legal developments. We:

  • outline the Crime and Policing Act 2026 and what it means for businesses,

  • explore the evolving legal landscape surrounding Agentic AI,

  • analyse the High Court ruling involving Banksy and lessons learnt for parties involved in contentious litigation,

  • examine the government’s proposed changes to the National Security and Investment Act 2021 (NSIA) mandatory notification regime; and

  • explore the impact of TUPE on M&A transactions.

Read our insights

A new era of corporate criminal liability: The Crime and Policing Act 2026

The Crime and Policing Act 2026, which came into force in June 2026, introduces a significant expansion of corporate criminal liability, making it easier for prosecutors to hold organisations accountable for offences committed by senior managers. This article explores the new regime, what it means for businesses, and the practical steps organisations should take to reduce their exposure to enforcement action.

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Agentic AI: the legal issue is no longer just what the model says, but what it is allowed to do

The rise of agentic AI shifts the focus from what AI generates to what it is authorised to do. We explore the evolving legal landscape, the risks associated with autonomous decision-making and workflows, and how organisations can deploy AI agents responsibly and compliantly.

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Banksy, copyright, and defamation: when the court is used as “an anvil for settlement” – litigation as leverage in the spotlight

A High Court ruling involving Banksy has raised important questions about anonymity, copyright and the proper use of defamation proceedings. In this article we explore the court's reasoning and the wider lessons for parties involved in contentious litigation.

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UK National Security and Investment Act 2021: proposed changes to mandatory notification sectors explained

The Cabinet Office has published its response to the consultation on proposed changes to the NSIA mandatory notification regime. This article examines the planned sector-specific reforms and considers whether they improve clarity and proportionality for businesses.

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Managing people risks in M&A transactions: the TUPE process

Employment considerations are a key part of any business acquisition. This article explores the impact of TUPE on M&A transactions and the challenges employers face when integrating transferring employees.

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