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A local lawyer has warned businesses of the perils of doing business online.

Writing on the blog of Peterborough-based marketing communications company Metrix Marketing (http://www.metrixmarketing.co.uk) solicitor Aimee Marsh (http://www.mcp-law.co.uk/people/aimee-marsh.html) of Metcalfe Copeman & Pettefar LLP (http://www.mcp-law.co.uk/) warns of the possible legal pitfalls involved in selling to consumers via the internet.

“Marketing online couldn’t be easier, particularly with customers able to tweet about excellent customer service they have received. And best of all; very limited overheads,” Aimee points out.

“But there are always difficult customers. There’s no escaping them. What’s even worse are the difficult customers who know their rights! It’s always better to be one step ahead.”

Aimee goes on to explain some of the consequences of the Consumer Protection (Distance Selling) Regulations 2000 which can be enforced by the Office of Fair Trading and local authority trading standards departments.

In particular, businesses should be aware of the information which the regulations say must be provided to customers and the rights which customers have to cancel the contract.

Aimee concludes: “The regulations are a potential minefield for the unwary. Make sure you have your terms and conditions and business practices reviewed to ensure your business is compliant. That might save you from potentially costly disputes with grumpy customers and investigations by trading standards officers!”