Villarani Govender Attorneys Inc. ("the Firm", "we", "us", "our") is a personal liability company incorporated in South Africa. We are committed to protecting the privacy of our clients and website visitors. This policy outlines how we process personal information in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act 4 of 2013 (POPIA).
1. Information We Collect
We collect personal information that is necessary to provide legal services, maintain our business relationship, and comply with legal obligations like FICA. This may include:
- Identity Data: Names, ID/passport numbers, and contact details.
- Sensitive Information: Medical records (for negligence claims), financial data, and legal history.
- Technical Data: IP addresses and website usage statistics via cookies to improve our digital services.
2. Purpose of Processing
We process your information only for lawful, specific, and explicitly defined purposes:
- To perform legal services under a mandate or contract.
- To comply with statutory duties (e.g., FICA and tax laws).
- To communicate regarding case updates and firm news.
- For the legitimate interests of the Firm or third parties involved in legal proceedings.
3. Disclosure of Information
We do not sell or trade your personal information. We may share it with:
- Third-Party Operators: Professional experts, advocates, or service providers assisting in your case.
- Legal Requirements: When compelled by law, court order, or regulatory bodies.
- Cross-Border Transfers: Only if the recipient country provides an adequate level of protection or with your consent.
4. Information Security
We implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to safeguard the integrity and confidentiality of your data. This includes secure databases, firewalls, and restricted access protocols. In the event of a data breach, we will notify the Information Regulator and affected data subjects as required by law.
5. Your Legal Rights
Under POPIA, you have the right to:
- Access: Confirm if we hold your information and request a copy.
- Correction: Request the update or correction of inaccurate data.
- Objection: Object to processing based on reasonable grounds.
- Deletion: Request the destruction of information we are no longer authorised to retain.
6. Retention of Information
We retain personal information only for as long as necessary to fulfil the original purpose or as mandated by legislation governing the legal sector (e.g., the Legal Practice Act).
7. PAIA Manual
In terms of the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA), we maintain a manual that outlines the records we hold and how they may be accessed. This manual is available on our website or upon request at our Pretoria office.
8. Contact Our Information Officer
For any queries regarding this policy or to exercise your rights, please contact our Information Officer:
- Attention: Villarani Govender
- Email: villarani@vgattorneys.co.za
- Address: Building B Office 11, Heuwelsig Office Park, Centurion, 0173
