Freedom of Information Advice & Support
Unlock effortless FOI compliance
Whether you are new to Freedom of Information (“FOI”) requests or a hardened veteran, our FOI advice, requests, and support services are tailored to meet your needs and handle all aspects of the Freedom of Information Act 2000.
Our FOI expertise and tailored FOI advice can help you achieve compliance and manage requests with confidence.
If you require expert legal advice and support in relation to the Freedom of Information Act 2000, get in touch with us. Our dedicated team is here to assist you every step of the way.
Our legal services
We offer a comprehensive range of legal services to ensure that you are well-prepared to handle FOI requests and comply with FOIA requirements. We can support with:
Our experts can provide advice and guidance in relation to audits of your information management systems to ensure compliance with FOIA requirements. We identify potential areas of non-compliance and provide actionable recommendations to rectify any issues.
Handling FOI requests can be complex and time-consuming. Our legal team assists you in managing and responding to FOI requests, ensuring that all responses are accurate, complete, and timely. We also help you apply the appropriate exemptions where necessary and can advise you on any relevant exemptions that may apply.
We offer tailored training sessions and workshops to educate your staff on the FOIA and its implications. Our training programs cover the following topics:
- Understanding the FOIA and its requirements
- How to handle and respond to FOI requests
- Identifying and applying exemptions
- Record-keeping best practices
If your FOI request has been denied, our legal team can assist you in filing an appeal. We provide expert representation and guidance throughout the appeals process, ensuring that your rights are protected. Additionally, we offer dispute resolution services to help you navigate any conflicts that may arise.
Understanding the Freedom of Information Act 2000
The Freedom of Information Act 2000 (“FOIA”) grants the public the right to access information held by public authorities. The Act promotes transparency, accountability, and public participation in government affairs.
Under FOIA, individuals and organisations have the right to request information, and public authorities are obligated to respond within a specified timeframe. Key Features of FOIA:
Individuals and organisations can request access to recorded information held by public authorities. We can assist with these requests.
Public authorities are required to respond to FOI requests within 20 working days. We provide a fast, efficient response service, ensuring timely advice.
Certain information may be exempt from disclosure under specified exemptions, such as national security or personal data protection. We can advise on any relevant exemption.
Requesters have the right to appeal if they believe their request was unjustly denied. We can review any appeals and advise.
Why choose us?
Choosing the right legal partner is crucial in navigating the complexities of FOIA. Here are some reasons why you should choose our services:
Expertise
Our team of lawyers have extensive experience in FOI law and a deep understanding of FOIA requirements
Client-centric approach
We prioritise our clients' needs and provide personalised legal solutions tailored to their specific circumstances
Proven track record
We have a history of successfully assisting clients in achieving compliance and effectively handling FOI requests
Comprehensive services
From compliance audits to training and dispute resolution, we offer a full spectrum of legal services under one roof
Notable work
Our clients consistently praise our dedication, expertise and client-centric approach. They have shared positive experiences of how our legal solutions have helped them successfully navigate FOI requests and compliance challenges. Their testimonials highlight the trust and confidence they have in our ability to deliver exceptional results, reaffirming our reputation as a leading FOI legal service provider.
Meet our team
Testimonials
MM
I have had the pleasure of working with Deryck Houghton on a wide range of contentious and non contentious legal matters. I have always found that...
Martin McCloskey, Group Commercial Director
Capita Group plc
"The team has highly qualified people who are approachable, understanding and helpful. They are swift in response, agile and articulate."
Chambers & Partners, 2025
"They have a good mix of background expertise combined with a pragmatic approach and industry knowledge."
Chambers & Partners, 2025
"Freeths are very knowledgeable in the sector."
Chambers & Partners, 2025
The team are highly skilled and experienced, sharing unique insights to solve problems and offer potential solutions.
The Legal 500, 2024
They are very hands-on and join meetings, supporting our teams and working collaboratively.
The Legal 500, 2024
They are also very responsive and helped when timescales were tight.
The Legal 500, 2024
They are skilled, articulate and levelled.
The Legal 500, 2024
Competitive, risk averse problem solvers.
The Legal 500, 2024
Freeths provide training, articles, and know-how. They are excellent value for money.
Chambers & Partners, 2024
The team at Freeths are experts in their area, and are also extremely effective communicators.
Chambers & Partners, 2024
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Whatever your legal needs, our wide ranging expertise is here to support you and your business, so let’s start your legal journey today and get you in touch with the right lawyer to get you started.
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