legal rights

• Legal rights in the UK are created, enforced, and protected by the government. They ensure that individuals obey the law while respecting the rights of others. Many human rights become legal rights when laws are made to protect them. Legal rights help society function in an organised way and include age restrictions, employment rights, and consumer protection laws.
• Some Key Age Laws

  Certain activities are restricted by age to ensure responsibility:

  • 10 – The age of criminal responsibility, meaning children can be arrested and charged.
  • 13 – Can legally get a part-time job.
  • 16 – Can marry with parental consent, access medical treatment, and apply for a passport.
  • 17 – Can drive a car and donate blood.
  • 18 – Can vote, serve on a jury, open a bank account, buy alcohol, and get married without consent.
• Employment Law:

  Employment laws protect workers from exploitation and unfair treatment.

  • Minimum wage laws prevent employers from underpaying staff.
  • Health and safety laws ensure safe working conditions.
  • Contracts of employment outline workers’ rights and responsibilities.
  • The Equality Act 2010 prevents discrimination in the workplace based on race, gender, disability, or other factors.
• Consumer Law:

  Consumer law protects people when buying goods or services to ensure fairness.

  • The Consumer Rights Act 2015 states that products must be fit for purpose and match their description.
  • If a product is faulty or not as advertised, customers have the right to a refund, replacement, or repair.
• Consumer Organisations:

  Several organisations help enforce consumer rights:

  • Citizens Advice – Offers free legal guidance on consumer issues.
  • Trading Standards – Investigates complaints about businesses breaking the law.
  • Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) – Regulates advertisements to prevent false or misleading claims.
• Employment Legislation:

  Several key laws protect employees in the workplace:

  • Minimum wage laws – Ensure workers receive fair pay.
  • Health and safety laws – Protect employees by ensuring safe working conditions.
  • Contracts of employment – Define employee rights and responsibilities.
  • The Equality Act 2010 – Ensures protection from discrimination in the workplace based on characteristics such as race, gender, disability, or age.
• Using an example, explain how consumer law protects the rights of consumers.

  
  

  Consumers purchasing goods or services are protected by The Consumer Rights Act 2015. For example, if the good or service is not as advertised, they have a right to make an exchange, claim money back, or for a repair service to be carried out properly.