The Law and You


Small businesses are affected by a huge range of rules and regulations. In this section you will find links to information from local and central government, as well as from Europe.

Who can help me?
A starting point if you need legal advice or a solicitor, plus where to find free publications to help new and existing businesses.

Company Law
Law which affects the way your business works.

Employment Law
Employment law is a part of everyday working life for the small business as recent cases on stress, working hours, part time work and race discrimination cases have shown.

Consumer Law
Small businesses are subject to a great range of consumer law, from food hygiene and environmental health to fair trading and Distance Selling Regulations.

Computer and Internet Law
A range of legislation is beginning to affect businesses who are using computers, going online or trading via the Internet.

Protecting and developing your ideas
Find information on trade marks, patents, copyright and design in our Intellectual Property pages.

Planning, Licensing, Building
Find out which local & national regulations affect your business, including new rights of access for disabled.