Privacy Policy
Introduction
Firths – The Compensation Lawyers and Firths – The Superannuation Lawyers both comply with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) (‘The Act’) and endeavour to protect the privacy of “personal information”. “Personal information” means information or an opinion about an identified individual, or an individual who is reasonably identifiable; whether the information or opinion is true or not; and whether the information or opinion is recorded in a material form or not.
Collection of Personal Information
We may collect personal information about an individual in order to provide legal advice, work on claims and/or for the purpose of litigation. This information will only be collected where it is reasonably necessary for one or more of our functions or activities. Any information collected in relation to a client’s matter will be handled and stored in accordance with the Legal Profession Uniform Law Australian Solicitors’ Conduct Rules 2015 (NSW) (‘SCR’).
We may elect to destroy a client’s file and all associated information after a period of seven years has expired since the completion or termination of our involvement in a matter, pursuant to rule 14 of the SCR.
We often encounter and/or collect personal information about individuals or organisations without their direct or express authority. These individuals or organisations may be indirectly or directly associated with a matter.
- Obtaining information regarding the factual matrix surrounding a client’s matter
- Collecting personal information regarding our clients’ contact details, personal relationships, financial statements, business affairs, medical history or criminal history
Where this information is “sensitive information” relating to another individual or organisation, this information will only be collected with the consent of that individual or organisation.
Types of Personal Information We Collect
- Name
- Email address
- Addresses
- Fax number
- Information from enquiries
- Communications with us
Examples of sensitive information we may collect:
- Credit card and bank account information
- Medical and relationship information
- Data under subpoena or court order
- Government data (Medicare, ATO, Centrelink)
Use and Disclosure of Personal Information
We only use or disclose your personal information for the primary purpose it was collected, or for legal obligations, or with your consent.
Examples include communicating with experts, legal representatives, courts, and in marketing our legal services (never for direct marketing).
We will assess if legal privilege can apply before disclosing data and will not disclose personal data overseas unless required.
Security of Personal Information
We secure personal information using locked offices, encrypted servers, firewalls, and secure service providers who comply with privacy standards.
Access to Personal Information
You may request access to any personal information we hold. We may refuse access if required under legal exceptions or privacy principles. Reasons will be provided.
Requests must be in writing and identification may be required. We may charge reasonable fees for this process.
Correcting Personal Information
We will take reasonable steps to correct any inaccurate, outdated, or misleading personal information, either on request or as identified.
Amendments to Our Privacy Policy
We may amend our privacy policy at any time without prior notice. Changes will be published on our website.
Questions, Concerns or Complaints
Please contact Firths – The Compensation Lawyers at Level 6, 370 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000 for any privacy concerns or questions. We aim to respond within a reasonable timeframe.