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Blanchard Legal Services Independent Solicitor in Loughton Epping Buckhurst Hill - Wills, Probate and Lasting Power of Attorney Simple Legal Advice

Data Protection Policy

1. Introduction
 

This data protection policy explains how personal data is collected, used and protected by Blanchard Legal Services Limited in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018. It applies to website visitors, prospective clients, clients, former clients, and other individuals whose personal data is processed in the course of legal work.

 

2. Personal Data We Collect
 

We will collect and process personal data when instructed to provide legal services. This may include:
 

  • identity information (including copies of identification documents);

  • contact details;

  • financial information;

  • family and relationship information;

  • estate and asset information; and

  • information relating to executors, beneficiaries, attorneys and trustees.

 

3. Special Category Data
 

We rarely process ‘special category’ data, such as health information or information relating to religious beliefs. If the need arises, this data is processed only where necessary for the provision of legal services and compliance with legal obligations. Such information will be stored on file, which may in turn be stored electronically. You provide that information to us with consent to hold the information, and we will not share that information in any way.

 

4. Basis of Processing

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The legal basis under the GDPR for the processing of personal date by Blanchard Legal Services Limited is so we can perform the contract that we have with you. The information that we collect from you is necessary for us to be able to carry out the services you require from us effectively and so we can fulfil our legal and regulatory obligations as a law firm.

 

5. Sharing Personal Data

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Any personal data provided to Blanchard Legal Services Limited is treated as confidential and will only be shared with others as far as that is necessary in order to provide the services contracted for by the client, to comply with regulatory or other legal obligations and to protect this firm against a potential claim. For example, data may be shared where necessary with:

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  • The Probate Registry

  • HM Courts & Tribunals Service

  • HM Revenue & Customs

  • The Land Registry

  • The Office of the Public Guardian

  • financial institutions and insurers

  • professional advisers

  • IT and case management providers

  • regulators, including the Solicitors Regulation Authority

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Appropriate safeguards are in place when personal data is shared.

 

6. Data Retention

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Client files are normally retained for a minimum of six years following the conclusion of a matter, in accordance with legal and regulatory requirements, after which they may be securely destroyed. Original Wills and other documents held in safe custody may be retained long-term or indefinitely unless alternative arrangements are requested. We reserve the right to charge a reasonable fee for the retrieval, copying or delivery of stored documents.

 

7. Your Rights

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You have rights under UK GDPR, including the right to:

  • access your personal data

  • request correction of inaccurate data

  • request erasure (where applicable)

  • restrict or object to processing

  • complain to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO)

 

8. Complaints

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If you have concerns about how your personal data is handled, please contact us in the first instance.

You also have the right to complain to the Information Commissioner’s Office:

Website: www.ico.org.uk, Telephone: 0303 123 1113

 

9. Updates to This Notice

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This privacy notice may be updated from time to time. The most recent version will be available on our website.

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Last updated: January 2026

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