December 2009 - What does the Lisbon Treaty do?

The Lisbon Treaty came into force on 1st December and should improve legislative procedures across the EU and increase access to the European courts for businesses and individuals.

According to the Law Society, this may result in an increased number of challenges in European courts because the treaty makes it easier for businesses and individuals to contest the legality of some EU Regulatory acts.

The treaty illuminates the EU's ability to legislate in both family and criminal law, enabling both recognition and enforcement EU-wide of criminal convictions from any of the member states. It also  underlines the development of alternative methods of dispute resolution. Additionally, it strengthens the European Union's powers regarding future amendments to data protection, energy and intellectual property laws.

If you would like to discuss the Lisbon Treaty with us please call us on 01562 66000, email us on This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or contact us using the contacts page of our website.