Privacy Policy

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Purpose

Stern Legal is subject to the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth). This Privacy Policy explains how Stern Legal protects the privacy of information in compliance with Australian privacy laws. It outlines the principles by which we collect, store, use, and disclose personal information and how individuals can access, correct, and lodge complaints about the handling of their personal information.

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Scope

This policy applies to any person who contacts Stern Legal via telephone, email, letter, website, or other online platforms, as well as those engaging with us in person.

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About this Policy

Definitions:

• Stern Legal refers to Stern Legal and its associated entities.

• We, us, and our refer to Stern Legal.

• Personal Information includes both personal and sensitive information.

• APPs refer to the Australian Privacy Principles in the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth).

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Collection of Personal Information

Stern Legal collects personal information by lawful and fair means. Generally, we collect personal information directly from you, such as your name, mailing address, telephone number, and email address. Sensitive information, like membership in professional or trade associations or health information, is collected only when necessary for us to provide legal services or conduct business operations and only with your consent.

In some cases, we may collect information from third parties when it’s unreasonable or impracticable to collect it directly from you, such as from an employer or a credit agency. When we collect information from third parties, we aim to ensure you are notified of our collection.

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Purpose for Collection, Holding, Use, and Disclosure of Information

We collect personal information for purposes essential to our legal services and business functions, including but not limited to:

• Providing legal advice and representation,

• Conducting employment-related activities,

• Receiving services from you or your employer, and

• Marketing and informing you about legal developments.

While you generally have the right to remain anonymous, providing personal information is usually necessary for us to deliver legal services effectively. Without this information, we may not be able to assist you.

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Use and Disclosure of Personal Information

Stern Legal uses and discloses personal information solely for the primary purpose for which it was collected, such as legal representation or consultancy. This may include sharing information with:

• Barristers or experts for your case, or

• Overseas firms for relevant legal advice.

When disclosing information overseas, we ensure compliance with the APPs by implementing protective measures like confidentiality clauses in contracts.

We may also use information for secondary purposes related to the original purpose, provided it’s within your expectations, or where exceptions apply, such as legal obligations or defense in legal proceedings.

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Direct Marketing

We may use your personal information to send you updates on legal areas and services offered by Stern Legal, provided you consent to receive such communications. Every marketing communication contains an option to opt-out, which you can request at any time.

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Use of Cookies

Our website may place a cookie in your browser’s memory to record your visit and gather anonymous data on usage patterns. This helps us improve our website and understand areas of interest. Cookies do not store any personal information, and you may disable them if preferred.

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Collection of Anonymous Information via Our Website

When you visit our website, our server logs certain details, such as your ISP, visit date and time, pages accessed, and search terms entered. This information remains anonymous and is collected in aggregate form.

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Information About Other People

If you provide us with information about another person, ensure you have the right to disclose it, following the APPs. For example, you may disclose information under exceptions allowing disclosure for establishing a legal claim. Otherwise, you must obtain the individual’s consent.

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Maintaining Accuracy of Your Information

Stern Legal is committed to keeping your personal information accurate, complete, and current. If you believe that any information we hold about you is incorrect, please contact us, and we will take all reasonable steps to amend it. If unresolved, we’ll provide an explanation or discuss alternative actions.

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Security of Personal Information

We secure your personal information through physical and electronic safeguards, including locked storage for hard copy data and SSL-encrypted, password-protected databases for electronic data. Our network security systems record access and activity details, allowing full tracing. We restrict USB, CD, and DVD device access and maintain high standards in IT security with firewalls and antivirus software.

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Accessing Your Personal Information

You may request access to your personal information at any time. We will respond within a reasonable period, providing access in the manner you request, where feasible, and may charge a reasonable administrative fee. If access is refused, we’ll explain the reasons, citing any exceptions under the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth).

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Complaints Handling and Contact Information

If you wish to complain about a potential breach of this Privacy Policy or the APPs, please contact our Privacy Officer. We commit to making good-faith efforts to address and rectify your concerns within a reasonable timeframe.

 

Lodging a Complaint with the OAIC

If you are not satisfied with the handling of your complaint by Stern Legal, you have the right to escalate the matter. You may refer your complaint to the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC). For further information or to lodge a complaint, you can visit their website at https://www.oaic.gov.au or contact them directly on 1300 363 992. We encourage you to engage with us directly in the first instance, as we are committed to resolving your concerns swiftly and fairly.