The introduction of the Human Rights Act 1998 to Northern Ireland in October 2000 has impacted every area of law.
The Human Rights Act protects the fundamental human rights identified by the European Convention of Human Rights and ratifies them as part of our domestic law in Northern Ireland.
These protected rights include the right to life, the right to freedom from torture and inhuman degrading treatment, the right to be made aware of the specific charges and the nature of the evidence against a client, the right to a fair hearing (whether civil or criminal), and the right to freedom from discrimination. The general principles in relation to these protected rights may apply in all types of cases including criminal cases, judicial review cases, children and family law cases and litigation.
Should you have an issue which engages a Convention right and require further information please contact our office to arrange an appointment.
