Using a restaurant solicitor

Opening a restaurant will mean you must comply with a number of regulations. These regulations include:

The Food Premises (Registration) Regulations 1991
The Licensing Act 2003
The Food Safety Act 1990
The General Food Law Regulations (EC) 178/2002
The General Food Regulations 2004 (as amended)

You do not need an overall licence to open a restaurant in your area, but you must inform your Local Authority that you intend to open this type of business. If you fail to do so, could be fined. The other regulations relate to the sale of alcohol and food at your premises. You are responsible for complying with all these regulations and legislation. Remember that ignorance is no defence in a court of law.

A solicitor with experience of licensing and food law in the restaurant business can be an invaluable asset to have available. If you are unsure about any aspect of the law that relates to your restaurant business a solicitor can help clarify the law for you. Never take any action before getting fully qualified legal advice. Your local area will have law firms that include solicitors that have experience of restaurant laws and regulations. They can identify the regulations that impact on the restaurant business you want to open.

And if your business is taken to court by your Local Authority or the Food Standards Agency, the help, advice and support of a solicitor that has experience of restaurant litigation is essential. Your restaurant law solicitor can represent you if your case does go to court and also negotiate with your Local Authority if there are any issues with the licences you have applied for.

If you would like to obtain legal advice about licensing laws and legislation, Contact Law can put you in touch with a local specialist restaurant licensing solicitor free of charge. So, if you have any questions or would like our help in finding local restaurant licensing solicitors please call us on 0800 1777 162 or complete the web-form above.