Trade Secrets (Enforcement, etc.) Regulations 2018: Key UK legislation implementing the EU Trade Secrets Directive. Provides legal definition of trade secrets, establishes protection framework, and outlines remedies for misappropriation of trade secrets.
Employment Rights Act 1996: Primary legislation governing employment relationships in the UK, including confidentiality duties during employment and aspects of post-employment restrictions.
Common Law of Confidence: Equitable principle in English law that protects confidential information, establishes protection requirements, and defines what constitutes breach of confidence.
Contract Law principles: Fundamental legal principles governing contracts including consideration requirements, reasonableness of restrictions, and enforceability of contractual terms.
Competition Law: Including Enterprise Act 2002 and Competition Act 1998, ensures trade secret protections don't breach competition rules or create unfair market restrictions.
Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR: Legislation governing personal data protection, processing principles, and employee privacy rights in relation to confidential information handling.
Human Rights Act 1998: Ensures protection of fundamental rights including right to work and privacy rights, requiring balance between employer protection and employee rights.
Intellectual Property Laws: Collection of laws including Patents Act 1977, Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988, and Trade Marks Act 1994, governing various aspects of intellectual property protection.
