These pages give you access to the latest valuable legal information regarding commercial law.

For a full list of legal briefings issued by all our departments visit News and Events.

Digital Commerce: recent news and views

E-Privacy Directive changed the requirements that online providers must meet when using cookies from the opt-out regime that was previously in force, to a requirement for informed consent. In May 2011, the Information Commissioner’s Office (“ICO”) published its guidance on the changes, but was unclear as to how the issue of consent should be dealt with. In December 2011, the ICO published updated guidance and was of the view that user awareness was not good enough for websites to rely on as implied consent to the use of cookies. It continued to advocate an opt-in regime. Read more at this link.

Understanding the Bribery Act 2010: an essential guide for your business

The risks from bribery are a growing concern for all businesses which can be confronted with demands for bribes, faced with competitors acting corruptly or undermined by employees violating their codes of conduct. In addition, there has been an increase in the enforcement of foreign bribery laws and the introduction in the UK of comprehensive bribery legislation. Businesses must act now to guard and promote their reputation for integrity and responsibility. Read more at this link.

Join the Club

Among all this talk of economic recession, it is easy to forget one of the major contributors to the success of our society – the voluntary sector.

Most of our valuable communities just couldn’t survive without the unpaid activities/contribution of public-spirited individuals who act at trustees, governors, committee members and group leaders. These activities represent 2% of the nation’s GDP (The National Council for Voluntary Organisations, The UK Voluntary Sector Almanac 2007). Article added March 2009. Read more ...

What do you need to know and be aware of when entering into a software licence agreement?

Within any kind of business, taking a licence to use someone else’s Intellectual Property (IP) will often be necessary if you want to use that IP without infringing their rights. The terms of any software licence should always be set out in writing to provide you, the licencee, with absolute clarity as to what both you and the licensor would like to achieve and what you have agreed. However, before signing and entering into any software licence agreement there are a number of common issues which you should pay careful consideration to. Article added March 2009. Read more ...

Selling Online... legally

More and more consumers are abandoning the High Street in favour of on line shopping. In response more businesses are offering their goods and services on line and investing in the development of their websites. But what are the legal implications for businesses operating in this comparatively new market place? Read more.

To Spam... Or Not to Spam

Information on the two recent EU regulations regarding email marketing, the Electronic Commerce Regulations 2002 and the Privacy and Electronic Communications 2003.Read more

Freedom of Information Act 2000

Information on the Freedom of Information Act 2000 which was passed on 1 January 2000. Read more