Trade Secrets (Enforcement, etc.) Regulations 2018: Key legislation implementing EU Trade Secrets Directive that defines trade secrets, their protection, and outlines remedies for breach. Essential for determining what constitutes protected information and enforcement mechanisms.
Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR: Comprehensive data protection framework governing the handling of personal data, including data protection principles, rights of data subjects, and data security requirements that must be reflected in confidentiality agreements.
Employment Rights Act 1996: Fundamental legislation establishing basic employment rights, protection against unfair treatment, and defining the relationship between employer and worker, including duties of confidentiality.
Common Law of Confidentiality: Established legal principles covering equitable confidentiality, breach of confidence, and requirements for information to be considered confidential under English law.
Contract Law: General principles of contract law covering consideration, capacity to contract, terms and enforceability, and reasonableness of restrictions in confidentiality agreements.
Human Rights Act 1998: Legislation protecting fundamental rights including privacy and freedom of expression, requiring careful balance between confidentiality obligations and individual rights.
Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988: Intellectual property legislation governing protection of works, ownership of creations during internship, and associated rights and restrictions.
Equality Act 2010: Anti-discrimination legislation ensuring fair treatment and reasonable accommodations, which must be considered when imposing confidentiality obligations.
