Privacy Policy

Ackermann Attorneys Inc. is committed to protecting your privacy and the confidentiality of your personal information. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your personal information in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act, 4 of 2013 (POPIA), and other applicable laws. By using our website, engaging with our firm, or providing us with your personal information, you agree to the terms of this policy.

1. Scope of the Privacy Policy

This Privacy Policy applies to all personal information collected by Ackermann Attorneys Inc. when you engage with our legal services, access our website, or interact with us through any communication channels. This policy should be read in conjunction with any agreements, contracts, or terms of engagement you may enter into with us. We are the "Responsible Party" for the purposes of POPIA, determining the purpose and means for processing your personal information.

2. Collection of Personal Information

We collect personal information in the course of conducting our legal practice, including but not limited to:

• Identity Information: Name, ID number, gender, marital status, etc.

• Contact Information: Phone numbers, email addresses, physical addresses.

• Financial Information: Bank account details, tax numbers, financial records.

• Technical Information: IP addresses, browser details, and website usage.

• Transaction Information: Records of services provided and payment details.

We may collect information directly from you, your representatives, or third parties, and in some cases, from publicly available sources.

3. Use of Personal Information

We use your personal information to:

• Provide legal services and fulfill contractual obligations.

• Comply with legal and regulatory requirements (including anti-money laundering and KYC checks).

• Communicate with you regarding matters related to our services.

• Improve and personalize your experience on our website.

• Protect the rights, property, and safety of Ackermann Attorneys Inc., our clients, and others.

We may also process your personal information for other purposes permitted by law, provided such purposes are consistent with the original reason for collection.

4. Sharing of Personal Information

We will not disclose your personal information to third parties without your consent, except where required by law or to provide our legal services. This may include:

• Sharing with service providers, such as IT or document storage providers, who assist in our operations.

• Complying with legal obligations, including disclosures to regulators or enforcement authorities.

• Collaborating with other law firms or professionals where necessary for the conduct of your matter.

We ensure that any third-party service providers are subject to confidentiality and data protection agreements that are consistent with this Privacy Policy and applicable laws.

5. Data Security

We take reasonable steps to protect the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of your personal information. This includes:

• Using secure servers and encryption technology to protect data.

• Implementing access controls to ensure that only authorized personnel can access personal information.

• Regularly reviewing and updating our security practices to mitigate risks, including unauthorized access, loss, or damage to data.

Despite our efforts, we cannot guarantee absolute security, and you acknowledge the inherent risks in sharing personal information electronically.

6. Cookies

Our website uses cookies to improve functionality and provide a more personalized user experience. Cookies are small data files stored on your device when you access our website. You may disable cookies in your browser settings, but doing so may affect your ability to use certain features of our site.

7. Retention of Personal Information

We will retain your personal information for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes for which it was collected or to comply with legal, regulatory, or contractual obligations. When no longer required, your information will be securely deleted or anonymized.

8. Access to Your Information

You have the right to request access to the personal information we hold about you, as well as the right to request the correction or deletion of inaccurate or unnecessary information. To make such a request, please contact our Information Officer at the details provided below.

9. Direct Marketing

We may, from time to time, use your personal information to send you marketing material or invitations to events. You will have the option to opt-out of receiving such communications by following the unsubscribe instructions in any marketing message or by contacting us directly.

10. Cross-Border Transfers

If necessary, we may transfer your personal information to jurisdictions outside of South Africa, including to third-party service providers. Where we transfer information to countries with differing data protection standards, we will ensure that appropriate safeguards are in place to protect your information.

11. Breach Notification

In the event of a data breach, where your personal information has been accessed or disclosed without authorization, we will notify you and the relevant regulatory authorities, as required by law, within the applicable timeframes.

12. Amendments to This Policy

Ackermann Attorneys Inc. reserves the right to amend this Privacy Policy from time to time. Any changes will be posted on our website, and where necessary, we will notify you of significant updates. Your continued use of our services after such changes are made constitutes your acceptance of the revised policy.

13. Contact Us

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or wish to exercise your rights regarding your personal information, please complete a contact form on our contact page.

Ackermann Attorneys Inc.