Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988: Primary legislation governing intellectual property rights, copyright protection, and ownership of software code and related materials
Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR: Legislation governing the processing, storage, and protection of personal data, including requirements for data processing agreements and security measures
Consumer Rights Act 2015: Legislation protecting consumer rights, relevant if the software development services involve consumer-facing products
Supply of Goods and Services Act 1982: Sets out the basic requirements for service contracts, including implied terms about quality and fitness for purpose
Contracts (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999: Governs how third parties may enforce terms of a contract, relevant for software licensing and end-user agreements
Unfair Contract Terms Act 1977: Regulates clauses that exclude or limit liability, particularly important for warranty and limitation of liability provisions
Competition Act 1998: Ensures competition law compliance, particularly relevant for exclusive arrangements or restrictive covenants
Employment Rights Act 1996: Defines employment rights and status, important for distinguishing between employees and independent contractors
IR35 Legislation: Tax legislation governing off-payroll working rules, crucial for determining contractor status and tax implications
Agency Workers Regulations 2010: Protects rights of agency workers, relevant if using agency contractors for software development
Working Time Regulations 1998: Governs working hours and rest periods, applicable to consultant working arrangements
Electronic Communications Act 2000: Provides legal framework for electronic signatures and electronic communications in contracts
Electronic Commerce (EC Directive) Regulations 2002: Regulates electronic commerce and online business practices
Computer Misuse Act 1990: Covers computer security and unauthorized access to systems, relevant for confidentiality and security provisions
Network and Information Systems Regulations 2018: Sets security requirements for network and information systems
Trade Marks Act 1994: Protects trademarks and branded elements in software development
Patents Act 1977: Governs patent protection for technical innovations in software
Financial Services and Markets Act 2000: Regulatory framework for financial services, relevant if developing software for regulated financial institutions
