Consumer Rights Act 2015: Primary consumer protection legislation that governs service standards, including veterinary services provided to private individuals. Requires services to be performed with reasonable care and skill.
Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966: Core legislation that regulates veterinary practice in the UK and establishes the framework for professional veterinary services.
Limitation Act 1980: Sets statutory time limits for bringing claims, generally allowing 6 years for contract claims. Critical for determining if a debt claim is still valid.
Late Payment of Commercial Debts (Interest) Act 1998: Applicable to business-to-business transactions, providing statutory right to claim interest on late payments of commercial debts.
RCVS Code of Professional Conduct: Professional standards set by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons that vets must follow, including requirements for clear communication about fees and services.
Contract Law Principles: Fundamental legal principles governing contracts, including establishment of contract existence, terms of agreement, and elements of breach.
Pre-Action Protocol for Debt Claims: Procedural guidelines that outline required steps before initiating court proceedings and specify information that must be included in demand letters.
