Privacy Policy

Introduction

Fieldstone is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of personal information entrusted to us by clients and website visitors. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit our website or engage our legal services.

Our privacy practices comply with applicable Canadian privacy legislation, including the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) and relevant provincial privacy laws. Additionally, solicitor-client privilege protects communications between our lawyers and clients.

Information We Collect

Contact Information

When you inquire about our services or become a client, we collect: name, address, phone number, email address, and other contact details necessary for legal representation.

Legal Matter Information

For client matters, we collect information relevant to your legal needs, which may include: farm operation details, property information, family circumstances, financial information, and business arrangements.

Website Usage Data

Our website collects technical information through cookies and analytics tools, including IP addresses, browser type, pages visited, and time spent on our site.

How We Use Your Information

We use collected information for the following purposes:

• Providing legal services and advice
• Communicating about your legal matters
• Maintaining accurate legal files and records
• Billing for services rendered
• Complying with legal and professional obligations
• Improving our services and website functionality
• Responding to inquiries and requests

Legal Basis for Processing

We process personal information based on:

• Consent: You provide consent when engaging our services or submitting inquiries
• Contract: Processing is necessary to fulfill our legal service obligations
• Legal Obligation: Compliance with Law Society requirements and legal duties
• Legitimate Interest: Operating our practice and improving service quality

Information Sharing and Disclosure

We do not sell or rent personal information. We may share information in limited circumstances:

• With Your Consent: When you authorize disclosure to other parties
• Service Providers: Accountants, investigators, or experts assisting with your matter
• Legal Requirements: When required by law or court order
• Professional Obligations: Reporting to the Law Society when required

Data Retention

We retain client information according to Law Society rules and professional requirements:

• Active client files: Duration of representation plus retention period
• Closed files: Minimum 10 years from file closure as required by Law Society
• Financial records: As required by accounting and tax regulations
• Marketing communications: Until you unsubscribe

Data Security

We implement security measures to protect personal information, including:

• Secure file storage systems with access controls
• Encrypted email communications for sensitive matters
• Password-protected computer systems
• Physical security at our office location
• Staff training on confidentiality obligations

Your Rights

You have rights regarding your personal information:

• Access: Request copies of your personal information
• Correction: Request correction of inaccurate information
• Withdrawal of Consent: Withdraw consent where consent is the basis for processing
• Complaint: Lodge complaints with privacy authorities

Note that solicitor-client privilege may limit certain rights, and Law Society requirements may prevent deletion of some information.

Cookies and Website Technology

Our website uses cookies to improve functionality and analyze usage. You can manage cookie preferences through your browser settings. For detailed information about cookies we use, please see our Cookie Policy.

Third-Party Services

We may use third-party services that collect information:

• Google Analytics: Website traffic analysis
• Email Services: Client communication platforms
• Cloud Storage: Secure file storage and backup

Updates to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. Updated versions will be posted on our website with a revised "Last Updated" date.

Contact Us

For questions about this Privacy Policy or to exercise your privacy rights, contact: