Our Privacy Policy
At LegalEase Paralegal Solutions ("we" or "us"), we understand the critical importance of protecting your privacy and the sensitive nature of personal data. As professionals in the legal field, we have a responsibility to uphold the confidentiality of the information entrusted to us by our clients. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your personal information in compliance with applicable laws.
Definition of Personal Information:
Personal information refers to any information that can identify an individual, excluding the name, title, or business contact details of an employee within an organization.
Compliance with PIPEDA:
Since January 1, 2004, all Canadian entities involved in commercial activities are required to adhere to the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA), along with the Canadian Standards Association Model Code for the Protection of Personal Information. This legislation applies to paralegals and firms like LegalEase Paralegal Solutions.
Collection of Personal Information:
We gather personal information in a lawful and fair manner. Typically, this information is collected directly from you at the beginning of our professional relationship or throughout the duration of our services. In some instances, we may acquire information from other sources, which may include:
Government agencies or registries.
Other professionals, such as your accountant.
Witnesses or other parties involved in litigation - Participants in commercial transactions.
Obtaining Consent:
Generally, we will seek your consent prior to collecting, using, or disclosing your personal information. This consent may be obtained in writing or orally, and in some situations, it can be implied through your actions or the nature of our engagement. Please note that withdrawing your consent may affect our ability to provide services and maintain our professional relationship.
Use of Personal Information:
Your personal information is utilized to deliver legal services, manage our client databases, enhance our expertise, and include you in our informational and marketing communications. If you prefer not to receive updates about our services or changes in the legal landscape, you can request to opt-out of such communications.
Disclosure of Personal Information:
LegalEase Paralegal Solutions does not share your personal information with third parties for marketing purposes. However, there are specific circumstances in which we may disclose your information, including:
With your explicit consent.
When required or permitted by law, such as in response to a court order
To comply with the Law Society of Ontario’s regulations.
When necessary to fulfill the legal services we provide, where your consent is implied unless stated otherwise.
For the collection of fees or expenses.
If we engage third-party service providers who adhere to confidentiality obligations aligned with this policy - In case of a merger or expansion of our firm - When retaining experts on your behalf.
When consulting with other law firms as needed.
Keeping Your Information Current:
To ensure we provide you with the best possible service, it is vital that your personal information remains accurate and current. Please notify us promptly if any of your details change during our professional relationship.
Protecting Your Personal Information:
We implement various measures to ensure the security of your personal information against loss, unauthorized access, alteration, or disclosure. These measures include:
Adherence to confidentiality protocols as part of our professional responsibilities.
Use of technological safeguards such as firewalls and security software to protect against unauthorized access.
Internal policies regarding data access and security.
Email Communication:
Please be aware that email communication is not entirely secure. When contacting us, do not include any sensitive personal information. You will not be considered a client until we have formally agreed to represent you through our standard client acceptance procedures, which include a signed retainer agreement. Any confidential information received via email will be promptly deleted.
Accessing Your Personal Information:
You have the right to request access to the personal information we hold about you. However, detailed requests that involve archival or retrieval processes may incur our standard professional fees. Your right to access your information is not absolute, and there may be situations where we cannot grant access. If we deny your request for access or correction, we will provide an explanation for our decision.
Conclusion:
We are committed to maintaining the privacy of your personal information and ensuring compliance with applicable laws. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this Privacy Policy or our practices, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.