Last Updated: January 28, 2025
At Cohen & Cohen, we understand the importance of protecting your personal information, particularly when dealing with sensitive legal matters. This privacy policy outlines how we collect, use, store, and protect your personal data, and your rights concerning this data.
1. Data We Collect
We collect several categories of personal information necessary for providing legal services. Personal and identity information includes your name, contact details, date of birth, and Social Security number when required for legal proceedings. We also maintain insurance information, medical records related to your case, and relevant employment information. For case-related information, we maintain comprehensive records including accident reports, police records, witness statements, and all relevant photographs and videos. We also keep records of medical bills, insurance correspondence, and all legal documents including court filings and records. In terms of technical information, our systems automatically collect data such as IP addresses, browser information, operating system details, and device information when you visit our website. This helps us maintain and improve our online services while ensuring security.
2. How We Collect Your Information
Our information collection process occurs through various channels during the course of legal representation. The primary method is through direct communication with our legal team during consultations and ongoing case management. We also receive information through our online contact forms, phone consultations, and email correspondence. Additional information may come from third-party sources such as medical providers, insurance companies, and law enforcement agencies when necessary for your case.
3. How We Use Your Information
Your personal information serves multiple purposes in our legal practice. The primary use is to provide comprehensive legal representation and services. This includes evaluating and managing your case, communicating with insurance companies and opposing counsel, and filing necessary court documents and legal paperwork. We also use your information to process medical records and bills, maintain our attorney-client relationship, and ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
4. Communications and Marketing
Our SMS program provides important case-related communications to clients who opt in. These communications include case updates, appointment reminders, document requests, and important deadline notifications. Message frequency varies based on your case needs, and message and data rates may apply. You maintain control over these communications and can opt out at any time by replying STOP to any message. For assistance, simply reply HELP to any message. Email communications form another crucial part of our client service. Through email, we send case-related updates, legal documentation, appointment confirmations, and important firm announcements. For clients who choose to subscribe, we also provide a newsletter with relevant legal updates and firm news.
5. Information Sharing
Confidentiality is a cornerstone of our practice. We share your information only in specific circumstances: when required for your legal representation, when authorized by you in writing, when required by law or court order, when necessary for legal proceedings, or when required for regulatory compliance. We maintain a strict policy against selling or sharing your information with third parties for marketing purposes.
6. Data Security
We employ comprehensive security measures to protect your sensitive information. This includes encrypted data storage and transmission, secure client portals, and robust access controls and authentication systems. Our security program includes regular assessments, ongoing employee training on data protection, physical security measures, and secure document disposal protocols.
7. Your Rights
As our client, you maintain significant rights regarding your personal information. These include the right to access your personal information, request corrections to your data, withdraw consent for communications, and request data deletion where legally permissible. You also have the right to receive copies of your case files and opt out of marketing communications at any time.
8. Opt-Out Options
Managing your communication preferences is straightforward. You can opt out of SMS communications by replying STOP to any message. For email communications, use the unsubscribe link provided in each email. You can also contact our office directly at (202) 955-4529 or email [email protected] to update your preferences.
9. Data Retention
Our data retention policies align with legal and professional requirements. We maintain your information for the duration of your legal representation and any applicable statute of limitations periods. Additional retention may be necessary to comply with legal requirements and regulatory obligations.
10. Contact Information
For any privacy-related inquiries, please contact us at:
Cohen & Cohen
1730 Rhode Island Avenue, NW
Suite #410
Washington, DC 20036
Phone: (202) 955-4529
Email: [email protected]
11. Updates to This Policy
We may update this privacy policy periodically to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. Any changes will be posted on this page with a revised “Last Updated” date. Significant changes will be communicated directly to active clients. By using our services, you acknowledge that you have read and understand this privacy policy.