A question of standards…
Legislation concerning trading standards aims to protect consumers, legitimate businesses and the wider public from unlawful and unfair trading.
Local Authorities are the principal body responsible for enforcement of trading standards regulation which can involve:
- Consumer rights
- Food safety
- Animal welfare
- Fair trading
- Food labelling
Businesses can find themselves involved in long and expensive investigations following complaints from the public and visits from the local authority. This can result in enforcement action ranging from:
- A written warning to service of an improvement notice
- Suspensions
- Penalty notices
- Injunctions
- Prosecutions and actions under the Proceeds of Crime Act
In some cases, individuals risk a custodial sentence.
We can advise and assist you and your business following the commencement of an investigation, negotiate with the trading standards authority and ensure your interests are protected.
Our aim will always be to avoid enforcement action and prosecution. In the event of a prosecution, we will provide you with representation throughout the process advising on the prospects of a conviction or acquittal at the earliest opportunity.
Regulatory
