• 0161 696 6170
  • Request a callback
Stephensons Solicitors LLP Banner Image

Freedom of Information Act 2000

The Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOIA) is a law that provides the public with a right of access to certain information held by public authorities. It is often used by private individuals, the media and businesses to obtain information. 

Whilst the Act applies to public authorities, it can also have an effect upon private businesses in certain situations – for example, where a business has tendered to provide services to a public authority, it is sometimes possible that certain information relating to that process could be disclosed to a person who makes an application for the information under the FOIA. 

 

Excellent4.7 score on Trustpilot
Rated 4.7 / 5 Based on 2085 reviews
Read all reviews

FOIA request

If you represent a public authority, have received an FOIA request and are seeking guidance as to how to respond, then we can help. Certain exemptions apply under the Act and, therefore, it is not always necessary for a public authority to provide the requested information in every case. 

Alternatively, if you represent a business and have been notified by a public authority that they may disclose information about your organisation to a third party in response to a FOIA request, then we can advise you on this issue.

Call us now on 01616 966 229 to discuss your situation or complete our online enquiry form and a member of the team will contact you directly.

Ofsted immediate suspension of one word inspection grades

Single-word Ofsted judgements for state schools will be scrapped with immediate effect to be replaced by report cards. The move by the Government is aimed at improving standards and helping parents to better understand schools’ strengths and...

Read more

What are my options if goods are seized by Border Force or HMRC?

Goods can be seized by HMRC or Border Force under Section 139 of the Customs and Excise Management Act 1979 when there has been a breach of customs law, for example, if the goods being imported are mis-declared. Once seized, the owner of the goods will be...

Read more