Effective date: August 13, 2025
Patten Law Office (“we,” “us,” or “our”) respects your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains what information we collect, how we use it, and the choices you have. We are located in Massachusetts and maintain our data security program in accordance with applicable laws, including Massachusetts’ data security regulations, 201 CMR 17.00, and data breach notification law, G.L. c. 93H.
1) Information We Collect
- Information you provide: contact details (name, email, phone), matter descriptions, documents you upload, form submissions, consultation requests, payment information you provide to our processors, and communications with our firm.
- Automatically collected information: IP address, device/ browser type, pages viewed, referral URL, and general location (derived from IP). We use standard web technologies (e.g., cookies and similar tools) for site functionality, analytics, and security.
- Sensitive/Confidential information: Please do not submit confidential or time-sensitive information through the website contact forms or chat; doing so does not create an attorney-client relationship (see Disclaimer).
2) How We Use Information
- To respond to inquiries, schedule consultations, and provide legal services.
- To operate, secure, and improve our website and services.
- To comply with legal and ethical obligations, including conflicts checks and recordkeeping.
- For marketing communications (only with your consent where required; you may opt out at any time).
3) Legal Bases (if you are in the EEA/UK)
Where applicable, we process personal data based on: (a) your consent, (b) performance of a contract or steps prior to entering one, (c) our legitimate interests in operating and improving our practice and website, and (d) compliance with legal obligations.
4) Disclosure of Information
We do not sell your personal information. We may share information with:
- Service providers/agents (e.g., website hosting, analytics, email, calendaring, secure file exchange, payment processors) under confidentiality and data-security obligations.
- Professional obligations (e.g., conflicts checks, malpractice carrier).
- Legal/Regulatory: When required by law, court order, or to protect rights, clients, or site security.
5) Data Security
We maintain a written information security program consistent with 201 CMR 17.00 designed to protect personal information of Massachusetts residents, including administrative, technical, and physical safeguards such as access controls, encryption where appropriate, employee training, and vendor oversight. No method of transmission or storage is 100% secure.
6) Data Retention
We retain information as required by legal ethics rules and applicable law, our engagement agreements, and our records policies. Website inquiry records may be kept for a reasonable period for conflicts checks and business purposes.
7) Your Choices & Rights
- Opt out of marketing: Use the unsubscribe link in emails or contact us.
- Cookies/Tracking: You can control cookies through your browser settings. Disabling some cookies may affect site functionality.
- Access/Correction/Deletion: Massachusetts residents (and, where applicable, EEA/UK residents) may request access to or deletion/correction of certain personal information subject to legal/ethical limitations (e.g., our duty to retain certain client file records). Contact us as below.
8) Children’s Privacy
Our site is not directed to children under 13, and we do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If you believe a child has provided us information, contact us to request deletion.
9) Third-Party Services & Links
Our website may link to third-party sites or embed third-party tools (e.g., maps, scheduling, payments). Their privacy practices apply to your use of those services.
10) Do Not Track
Because there is no uniform industry standard, our site does not respond to “Do Not Track” signals. You can manage tracking via your browser and cookie controls.
11) Massachusetts Data Breach Notice
If a security incident involves personal information of a Massachusetts resident as defined by G.L. c. 93H, we will provide notifications in accordance with that law and applicable rules.
12) Updates to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. Changes will be posted with a new effective date.
13) Contact Us
Patten Law Office
29 Lowell St Second Floor Unit #7 Peabody, MA 01960
Phone: (978) 836-0321
Email: info@budgetjumpstart.org
