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Human Rights

 

Fairness In The 21st Century

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Awareness of human rights in increasing in Scotland.  Indeed, it is almost certainly fair to say that the Scottish public have taken a greater interest in the concept of human rights, of fairness generally, than those living elsewhere in the UK and the Scottish Courts have not shied away from their responsibility to ensure that human rights are respected.

The Laws of the United Kingdom recognise sixteen basic human rights.  These are fundamental rights and freedoms as originally envisaged by the European Convention on Human Rights.  These rights include:

  • right to life
  • prohibition of torture
  • prohibition of slavery and forced labour
  • right to liberty and security
  • right to a fair trial
  • no punishment without Law
  • right to respect for private and family life
  • freedom of thought, conscience and religion
  • freedom of expression
  • freedom of assembly and association
  • right to marry
  • prohibition of discrimination
  • protection of property
  • right to education
  • right to free elections
  • abolition of the death penalty

The Law affecting human rights is complex.  Our approach to the resolution of human rights problems is a proactive one.  Our main objective, as in other fields, is always to speedily identify solutions to our Clients’ needs.  We are well-placed to give you, at the very least, preliminary advice as to whether your human rights are being violated.  If we believe that they are we will liaise on your behalf with specialist Counsel with a view to ensuring that violation of your human rights is stopped.

Although we will be more than happy to act as liaison between you and the organisations which specialise in promoting human rights, and to obtain guidance and specific advice from them on your behalf, you may find that the following link may be helpful to you.

Department for Constitutional Affairs - www.dca.gov.uk/peoples-rights/human-rights
The Foreign & Commonwealth Office - www.fco.gov.uk
The Equality and Human Rights Commission – www.equalityhumanrights.com

Come In and See Us

We recognise that the nature of human rights problems is such that an urgent appointment may be necessary, in which case an appointment will be set up as soon as possible.

Our offices are conveniently based near the centre of Edinburgh, at 16 Heriot Row and clients are most welcome to make use of our parking facilities immediately to the rear of the building.

Do get in touch with us - we will be pleased to help.

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