As data controllers, universities are responsible for the personal data they hold on staff, students and third parties and the way that data is processed.
The effective use of data is being seen and used as a business-critical asset by higher education institutions (HEIs). However, the regulatory landscape is also highly complex. A data breach can have a devastating effect on a university with the prospect of significant fines being imposed by the Information Commissioners Office (ICO), reputational damage and criminal prosecutions.
Our team of highly experienced data protection and information law experts has the in-depth knowledge and experience to help universities utilise data to support their business objectives as well as assist them in both remaining fully compliant at all times and supporting them in the event of data breach.
What we offer
We advise on the full spectrum of information law issues including:
- Drafting and reviewing GDPR compliant contracts, service agreements, licensing agreements, privacy policies and notices, data processing agreements, and cookie notices
- Ensuring responses to Freedom of Information (FOI) requests comply with current information law
- Advising on data subject rights requests including subject access requests
- Data transfers across borders
- Advising on data breaches and unlawful uses of personal information including breach of confidence
- Advising on cyber security including dealing with ransomware and other attacks
- Dealing with complaints to, and investigations by the ICO and Office for Students
- Advising on reputational management
- Carrying out data protection audits
- Carry our internal investigations
- Bespoke training on information law
Why choose Browne Jacobson?
With bases in London, Birmingham, Manchester, Exeter and our founding city of Nottingham, and links across the globe, we’re a national law firm with international reach. You will be able to access subject-specialist, leading lawyers who will draw upon their expertise of (often) high-profile cases to advise you. Our experts in the higher education sector work closely with colleagues in the information law team to provide seamless assistance to institutions as needed.
For more information on how we can help your institution please contact Ros Foster.