Privacy Policy

Introduction: Our Privacy Policy Commitment to You

At The Law Offices of Gary O. Olson, P.C., we appreciate the level of trust that our clients have in us and are very intentional about respecting your privacy and safeguarding the confidentiality of your personal information. As a law firm located in South King County and North Pierce County that has successfully provided legal services for over 36 years, we recognize what privacy means in the realm of legal services, including real estate transactions, boundary disputes, association representation, and estate planning. Our Privacy Policy details the various ways that we collect, use, store, and secure your information when you hire our offices for legal services, whether over the phone (telephonic), digital, or in-person. Please take a moment to carefully review our Privacy Policy so that you understand how we protect your personal information and the legal rights that you have regarding this protected personal information.

Scope of This Privacy Policy

This Privacy Policy details all the information The Law Offices of Gary O. Olson, P.C., collects through our website and via telephone, email, US mail, and in person related to all clients, prospective clients, third parties and those using our site. This policy also governs information obtained with respect to services, consultation and communication related to legal services. Any use of our services including providing information is an acceptance of the terms contained herein.

Information We Collect

We collect information in order to deliver effective legal services and fulfill our duties to our clients. This generally includes:

  • Your personal identification and contact details, such as your name, address, phone number, and email.
  • Information about your properties and real estate, including property data, and the details of any transactions relating to those.
  • Your legal documents or agreements, that may include deeds, contracts, wills, or communications with associations.
  • Financial information that relates to the legal matter (such as a mortgage statement or property on an estate).
  • Records of communications, such as emails and phone calls with you.
  • Technical data such as IP addresses or website usage data, collected by cookies on our website for security purposes or analytics.

We take information only if we need it to provide our services to you and fulfill our legal and professional obligations.

How We Might Use Your Information

The information you have provided is only used for the following purposes of providing quality legal services, including:

  • Determining your individual legal needs and providing appropriate advice/counsel or representation
  • Preparing, reviewing and filing legal documents on your behalf
  • Preparing, reviewing and filing documents related to real estate transactions, disputes and association matters
  • Corresponding or communicating with you, either related to the case or legal inquiry at hand
  • Meeting our legal, regulatory, or ethical obligations as required by the law and the Washington State Bar Association
  • Quality assurance, improvement of services or client experience and website security

We do not use your information for marketing purposes without your explicit consent, and we never sell your information to third parties.

Confidentiality and Attorney-Client Privilege

As your attorneys, we are subject to strict confidentiality obligations with respect to the information you provide to us. The information you share with us in connection with your request for legal advice and/or legal representation is protected to the full extent provided by law. We take all reasonable and necessary steps to prevent the unauthorized access, use or disclosure of such information. These confidentiality obligations extend to all firm personnel, including all employees and consultants. Such obligations survive after our professional relationship has ended.

How We Share & Disclose Your Information

We will not share your personal information with any third party except in the following cases:

  • When you give us specific permission to do so (i.e., when you ask us to refer your case to another attorney).
  • As required by law (i.e., when we receive a subpoena, court order, or governmental investigation).
  • To vendors, in compliance with our contractual agreements with them (including trusted quality processors of legal documents, law office IT support, and other vendors), under strict confidentiality obligations.
  • To enforce our rights, to protect the safety of our clients or others, or to investigate or remedy a potential violation of the law or a security threat.

Under no circumstances do we license, sell, rent or trade your personal information to unrelated third parties.

Data Security Procedures

The Law Offices of Gary O. Olson, P.C. has security measures in place to help safeguard information against loss, theft, unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration or destruction. These security measures include:

  • Storing physical files in locked file cabinets in our office.
  • Storing sensitive electronic files on encryption-protected devices and on secure, cloud-based legal management services.
  • Using password protection for computers and other devices, and regularly updating software and security patches.
  • Using secure email and other communication channels; if necessary and appropriate we may use encryption to transmit files securely.
  • Regularly reviewing and updating security policies to conform to law enforcement and industry standards.

We do recognize that no security system is foolproof. Clients should take their own precautions to secure their own sensitive information. Please let us know immediately if you believe that there has been unauthorized use of your information.

Transmitting & Storing of Records

We maintain client records for as long as necessary to serve the purposes of the records and to meet our professional, legal and regulatory obligations. In general, litigation files are maintained for at least seven years after the conclusion of a matter. However, if any law or regulation requires a longer retention period for specific documents, we will do so. You may ask us to keep records for a longer period of time at no charge to you. We securely destroy physical and electronic records using appropriate methods (including shredding paper files and permanent deletion of electronic files) at the end of the applicable retention period.

You may request a copy of your records at any time while we maintain them, or ask us about the status of our maintenance of your records.

Your Rights and Choices

You have the following important data protection rights in relation to the personal information that The Law Offices of Gary O. Olson P.C. holds about you. In certain circumstances you have the right to:

  • Request access – You have the right to request access to personal information which we hold about you.
  • Rectification – You have the right to request that any incomplete or inaccurate personal information be amended.
  • Deletion – You have the right to request deletion of your records subject to our legal or ethical duties.
  • Restriction – You have the right in certain circumstances to request that we restrict our processing of your personal data.
  • Portability – Upon request we will provide you with a copy of your records in a commonly used portable format.

In order to exercise any of the above rights, please contact us using the details at the end of this policy. We will respond to your request within the required time frames as stated by applicable law.

How We Safeguard Privacy for Electronic Communications and Web Visitors

Given our move over the past few years to a home office practice with an emphasis on telephonic and internet communications, we have adopted enhanced privacy safeguards for clients and others we may communicate with via internet:

  • Tracking on Our Websites: We utilize standard website analytic tools to track use of our websites (visits, page views, navigation paths) so we can improve functionality. This type of information is not cross-referenced with individual persons and is anonymous.
  • Cookies: Cookies or web beacons may be used within the website to provide enhanced functionality or security. You may disable your ability to receive cookies by setting your web browser to reject cookies. Disabling cookies may affect your web experience.
  • Email Security: Our secure email servers contain safeguards and we recommend that clients use secure email addresses, avoiding the use of shared work email systems if they wish to avoid transmission through unencrypted email systems.
  • Online Forms: Online forms information is encrypted during transmission and is only viewed by personnel authorized to handle such information.

We do not accept personally identifiable information from visitors to the websites unless reasonably required for site security and functionality.

Children’s Privacy

Our service is not intended for children under the age of 18, and we do not knowingly collect personal information from children under the age of 18. If we become aware that we have collected personal information from a child under the age of 18 without verification of parental consent, we will take steps to remove such information from our servers. If you become aware that a child has provided us with personal information, please contact us so that we will be able to take the necessary action.

Links and Referrals to Other Websites

Our website and communications may link or refer you to third party websites, law firms, attorneys or other professionals to provide services which we do not provide. We are not responsible or liable for the privacy practices or content of those third parties. Please review their privacy policies before providing any data to them. Referrals to other attorneys or other professionals are done at your request in accordance with our obligations under the ethics rules.

Our Privacy Policy Modifications

We reserve the right to update this Privacy Policy from time to time based on changes in our practices, legal requirements or technology. When we amend these policies, we will update the date at the top of this policy and, where appropriate, post notice to clients. We ask that you check this policy periodically to ensure you are apprised of how we safeguard your information. Your agreement to our continued use of our services following a change in such policy shall constitute acceptance of the amended policy.

Contact Us

For questions, concerns or requests regarding this Privacy Policy or our use of information please contact The Law Offices of Gary O. Olson, P.C. at either of the addresses below:

Postal Address

P.O. Box 488
Maple Valley, WA 98038

You may contact us with inquiries and/or to schedule an appointment. We shall make reasonable effort to address your inquiry and explain or discuss your privacy concerns fully, promptly and courteously.

Privacy Policy for The Law Offices of Gary O. Olson, P.C. Clients

This Privacy Policy is applicable specifically to the clients and potential clients of The Law Offices of Gary O. Olson, P.C., which is a Renton real estate attorney practice. Our concern for privacy goes beyond our lawyers’ professional responsibilities and responsibilities as officers of the court. We recognize the highly confidential nature of the legal services that we provide in the fields of real estate, homeowner associations, and estates. In the legal arena, it may be expected that the concept of privacy would include a higher concern for confidentiality than in non-legal settings. For that reason, we are committed to rigorous standards of client data protection.

Our Legal & Ethical Responsibilities

As a member of the Washington State Bar Association we have a duty to members under the rules of professional conduct, Rule 1.6 (Confidentiality of Information), not to reveal client information without client consent or as required by law. We also adhere to the requirements of all other applicable federal, state and local laws concerning data privacy and electronic communications. Our obligations under these rules govern everything we do in connection with your information, from intake to file retention and destruction.

Collection of Information During Legal Representation

When you hire our firm to perform legal services on your behalf we obtain information as part of the intake process and during the course of the representation. Such information may include:

  • Information regarding the subject property or real estate transaction.
  • Information regarding parties, including buyers, sellers, lenders and association members.
  • Background information regarding pending claims, negotiations or litigation.
  • Information such as appraisals, surveys, title reports and correspondence.
  • Information regarding estate planning (i.e., list of assets, family members, related parties and beneficiary designations).

We may also obtain data from public sources (i.e., county records) or third parties as necessary to pursue the representation.

Use of Information Gathered for Legal Services and Communication

All information collected in this system shall be used only for the purpose of providing legal services, including:

  • Interviewing and advising clients;
  • Preparing legal documents and filings;
  • Communicating with opposing parties or counsel;
  • Pre-litigation representation of clients or referral of clients to litigation law firms;
  • Communicating with courts, government agencies or title companies.

We never use client information for any other reason, and we will only communicate to you directly on matters pertaining to your representation unless you request otherwise.

Security Procedures for Physical and Electronic Files

Our shift to virtual-based practice has not and will not cut into our information security. We store physical files in locked cabinets accessible only to entitled persons. Electronic files reside on secure, encrypted drives and cloud environments that require two-factor authentication to access. We back up our data regularly to avoid data loss. We review periodically and update our security measures to mitigate newly-identified threats and meet established standards for law office management.

Access to and Disclosure of Client Information

Those involved in providing services to you within our firm need access to your information in order to provide you with legal services. We will not give your information to anyone outside our firm, except as authorized by you or unless we believe it is necessary to:

  • Comply with the law or other legal requirements.
  • Respond to court orders or subpoenas.
  • Prevent fraud, financial crimes, or threats.
  • Provide referrals to other attorneys or professionals at your request.

All individuals working on your matter, including legal assistants or consultants, must sign confidentiality agreements.

Your Rights under State & Federal Statutes

The Washington Uniform Electronic Transactions Act and federal privacy laws entitle you to the following rights:

  • To find out how your information is used and stored,
  • To get access to your records at reasonable intervals.
  • To request that your file be amended or corrected.
  • To withdraw your consent to use or disclose all or part of such information, subject to limitations imposed under law and regulations.

We promise that we will comply with the above requests as fully as possible under the law and present any limitations that may apply in your case.

Privacy of Digital and Telephone Communications

The Law Offices of Gary O. Olson, P.C. communicates mostly by telephone and electronic means. In order to protect your privacy:

  • We only use secure phone lines and encrypted email accounts, and these are password or PIN protected.
  • Where necessary, we encrypt sensitive electronic documents and attachments.
  • We advise our clients regarding positive practices they can follow to protect their communications (i.e., private devices, not using public Wi-Fi, encryption, etc.).
  • We never record phone conversations without your consent.

We strongly recommend that clients do not use public Wi-Fi or shared computers or devices when communicating with us about private legal matters.

Notice of Data Breach Affected Parties

In the rare event your personal information is the subject of a data breach, we will act quickly:

  • We will investigate as soon as possible and stop the unauthorized access to your information.
  • We will send you a notice as soon as we can and, all notices will provide the general nature of the information involved in the breach.
  • We will provide you with steps you can take to protect yourself.
  • We will inform you of what law enforcement wants us to do, if anything.
  • We will cooperate with law enforcement and other governmental agencies to the extent required by laws and regulations.

We take privacy breaches very seriously and strive for transparency and prompt remediation.

Use of Third Party Service Providers

We may hire third parties to prepare documents, electronically file documents, store data, or provide IT support. Third party service providers are carefully screened and work under contract terms requiring them to protect the confidentiality and security of your information. We do not authorize a third party service provider to use or disclose your information for any purpose other than the purpose for which we engaged the provider.

International Data Transfer

Although the majority of our operations (including all storage of Personal Information, as defined in our Terms of Service) take place in Washington State or within the United States, some information may be stored or processed on servers located outside the United States depending on what kind of technology platform is involved (cloud-based legal matter management software, for example) – and in those circumstances we will have appropriate safeguards in place in compliance with applicable law. Please contact us if you have any questions regarding the cross-border transfer of personal data.

Client Testimonials and Case Studies

Disclaimer: From time to time we may publish client testimonials or case studies on our website to illustrate the quality of our services. We will never disclose your name, details of your case or any identifying details without your express prior written consent. Any use of testimonials are anonymized or based upon composite facts in order to preserve confidentiality.

Communication Preferences and Opt-Out Options

You may determine the means by which we contact you. Please let us know if you wish to receive correspondence by mail, e-mail or the telephone. You also may decide not to receive certain types of information such as firm newsletters or updates on the law. All you need to do is let us know in writing. We promise to honor your wishes and make a note of your preferences.

Privacy Policy for Homeowner & Condominium Associations

If you are an officer or member of a Homeowner or Condominium Association receiving legal services, we will accumulate association governance documents, meeting minutes and member rosters. Such information is used only to the extent necessary to provide good legal advice and services to the association. Member information is maintained with the same care as all other client information.

Privacy in Estate Planning or Probate Services

As part of all estate planning and probate work, we recognize the importance of maintaining the confidentiality of family and financial personal information. All information provided during the planning process is protected by strict legal lawyer-client privilege. This means that none of this information will be shared with anyone other than you, unless you provide specific authorization or it is required for filing with a probate court.

Our Client Intake Process and Privacy Controls

Our client intake process aims to obtain only the minimal amount of information necessary for us to analyze your legal problem and determine how we can help you. We will advise what information we need, and why we need it, and you are always welcome to ask questions or decline to provide certain information in which case we will explore with you how that may impact our ability to assist you. All information shared during the intake process is confidential and protected by attorney-client privilege, even if you decide not to retain our firm.

Records Management, File Retention, and Auditing Procedures

We keep thorough records on all matters in compliance with the Washington State Bar Association’s guidelines. Our file system is fully organized, securing documents only to those qualified to do so based on their employment position; and retaining them for the legally required number of years. Files are periodically audited for compliance with privacy/security protocols.

Complaint Resolution and Reporting Privacy Issues

We encourage you to direct any complaints about our handling of your information to us by contacting us at our mailing address here: P.O. Box 488, Maple Valley, WA 98038. We take complaints seriously, and we will investigate and properly address any issues in accordance with our ethical duties of the highest professional standards. If you are not satisfied, please first make direct contact with us so that we are aware and able to remedy any potential oversight. If you are still not satisfied after we have had the opportunity to remedy the situation, you may contact the Washington State Bar Association for further assistance.

Privacy Rights Under the California and Other State Statutes

If you are a California or other jurisdiction that provides more privacy rights than others, those rights under state laws may include the right to:

  • Be informed about what personal information a business collects, uses, shares or sells;
  • Delete personal information a business has about an individual; and
  • Not to be discriminated against for the exercise of privacy rights.

We will recognize those state privacy rights to the extent applicable to our practice as a business and will provide additional details on request.

No Sale of Personal Information

The Law Offices of Gary O. Olson, P.C. does not sell your personal information and will not sell your personal information to a third party, whether for advertising, marketing, or otherwise. Your trust and privacy are vital aspects of our involvement with your issues.

Acknowledgment and Acceptance of Privacy Policy

Your engagement of our services, your use of our site, your communicating with us by any means all indicate that you have reviewed and agree to abide by this Privacy Policy. Should you have questions or seek clarification about this Privacy Policy you may contact us as indicated above.

Effective Date and Changes to Privacy Policy

This Privacy Policy is effective as of June 1, 2024, superseding all prior versions. We retain the right to modify this policy at any time. Any changes will be published on our website and, if deemed material, will be communicated directly to clients. It is advisable to review this policy periodically to remain informed about our information protection procedures.

Contact Us for Privacy Policy Concerns

The Law Offices of Gary O. Olson, P.C.
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 488
Maple Valley, WA 98038

We strive to respond promptly, fully and respectfully to all privacy requests. Thank you for entrusting The Law Offices of Gary O. Olson, P.C. to represent you and handle your personal information.