Privacy Policy – PSM LAWYERS
Last Updated: September 2025
PSM LLP (“Firm,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of personal information collected in connection with our provision of legal services. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, protect, retain, and manage personal information and how we comply with all applicable privacy laws, including Alberta’s Personal Information Protection Act (“PIPA”).
This Policy applies to prospective and current clients.
Information We Collect
We collect various types of information in connection with our legal services:
- Personal Information Provided by Users: Name, contact details (email, phone number, mailing address), identification information (e.g., government-issued ID for verification), billing and payment information, employment details, and other information you provide voluntarily.
- Sensitive Information: Information related to legal matters that may include financial information, or other sensitive personal data provided to us in the course of legal representation.
How We Use Your Information
We utilize personal information for the following purposes:
- To provide, manage, and deliver legal services to clients effectively.
- To respond to inquiries, schedule appointments, and maintain client relationships.
- To verify identities in compliance with regulatory and anti-money laundering requirements.
- To communicate important information regarding your legal matter, service updates, or firm-related news.
- To process payments and billing.
- To ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and professional obligations.
- To maintain records as required by law and professional standards.
Legal and Ethical Compliance
We comply fully with Alberta’s Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA), applicable federal laws, and the Rules of the Law Society of Alberta. We also uphold our professional ethical duties regarding confidentiality and client privilege.
Sharing and Disclosure of Information
We do not sell or rent personal information to third parties. Disclosure of your personal information is limited to:
- Authorized firm staff strictly on a need-to-know basis.
- Third-party service providers who assist us in operating our business (e.g., IT providers, payment processors).
- Courts, regulatory bodies, opposing counsel, insurers, or other parties as necessary to provide legal services or as required by law.
- Government authorities as required or permitted by law.
Data Security and Protection
We implement appropriate technical, administrative, and physical safeguards to protect personal information from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, and destruction. These measures include:
- Secure server environments and encrypted communications.
- Access controls and authentication requirements.
- Regular staff training on confidentiality and privacy.
- Policies and procedures for breach response and notification.
Retention of Personal Information
We retain personal information only as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes for which it was collected or as required by law, including retention periods imposed by the Rules of the Law Society of Alberta and applicable legislation. When personal information is no longer required, it is securely destroyed or anonymized.
International Data Transfers
In certain circumstances, personal information may be accessed or stored outside Canada (e.g., cloud service providers). We ensure such transfers comply with applicable laws and that equivalent privacy protections are in place.
Changes to This Privacy Policy
We reserve the right to update or amend this Policy at any time to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. Notice of significant changes will be provided on the website.
How to Contact Us
Questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy or your personal information should be directed to our Privacy Officer, Todd Kirkpatrick: todd@psmlaw.ca
