Last Updated: August 5, 2025

 

Pinnacle Legal is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of our clients, website visitors, and stakeholders. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your personal information in compliance with applicable data protection laws, including the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) in South Africa. By accessing our website or engaging our services, you agree to the terms of this Privacy Policy.

 

1. Information We Collect

 

We collect personal information to provide our legal and consulting services to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and to enhance your experience with Pinnacle Legal. The types of information we may collect include:

• Personal Identifiable Information: Name, email address, phone number, business name, job title, and other contact details provided when you engage with us, submit inquiries, or request services.

• Business-Related Information: Details about your company, such as registration numbers, financial information, or contracts, shared during the provision of legal services.

• Website Usage Data: Information collected automatically when you visit our website, including IP addresses, browser type, device information, pages visited, and time spent on the site, gathered through cookies and similar technologies.

• Communication Data: Correspondence, including emails, forms, or other interactions, where you provide information voluntarily.

 

2. How We Collect Information

 

We collect information through:

• Direct Interactions: When you contact us via our website, email, phone, or in-person consultations, or when you provide information during the course of our legal services.

• Automated Technologies: Through cookies, analytics tools, and server logs that track website usage to improve functionality and user experience.

• Third Parties: From business partners, public records, or other lawful sources when necessary to provide our services or verify information.

 

3. How We Use Your Information

 

Pinnacle Legal uses your personal information for the following purposes:

• Service Delivery: To provide legal and consulting services, including contract drafting, regulatory compliance, alternative conflict resolution, and corporate governance support.

• Client Communication: To respond to inquiries, provide updates on services, and maintain ongoing client relationships.

• Website Improvement: To analyze website usage and optimize content, functionality, and user experience.

• Legal and Compliance Obligations: To comply with applicable laws, regulations, or legal processes, including those related to data protection and corporate governance.

• Business Development: To send marketing communications, such as newsletters or service updates, where you have provided consent or where permitted by law.

 

4. Legal Basis for Processing

 

We process personal information based on the following legal grounds:

• Contractual Necessity: To fulfill our obligations under agreements with clients or to take steps prior to entering a contract.

• Consent: Where you have explicitly consented to the processing of your data, such as for marketing purposes.

• Legitimate Interests: For purposes such as improving our services, ensuring website functionality, or managing client relationships, provided these interests do not override your rights.

• Legal Obligations: To comply with applicable laws, including POPIA, and to respond to lawful requests from authorities.

 

5. Sharing and Disclosure of Information

 

Pinnacle Legal does not sell or rent your personal information. We may share your information in the following circumstances:

• Service Providers: With trusted third-party providers (e.g., IT services, analytics providers) who assist us in delivering services, subject to strict confidentiality agreements.

• Legal Requirements: When required by law, court order, or regulatory authority to disclose information.

• Business Transactions: In the event of a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets, where personal information may be transferred as part of the transaction, with appropriate safeguards in place.

• With Consent: When you explicitly consent to the sharing of your information with specific third parties.

 

6. Data Security

 

We implement robust technical and organizational measures to protect your personal information from unauthorized access, loss, or misuse. These measures include:

• Encryption of sensitive data during transmission and storage.

• Access controls to ensure only authorized personnel can access personal information.

• Regular security assessments and updates to safeguard against emerging threats.
  Despite our efforts, no system is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security. We encourage you to protect your own data by using secure passwords and avoiding sharing sensitive information unnecessarily.

 

7. Data Retention

 

We retain personal information only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this Privacy Policy, comply with legal obligations, or resolve disputes. Retention periods vary based on:

• The duration of our client relationship with you.

• Legal requirements under applicable laws, such as tax or corporate regulations.

• The need to maintain records for potential legal claims or audits.
  Once retention periods expire, we securely delete or anonymize your information in accordance with POPIA guidelines.

 

8. Your Rights

 

Under POPIA and other applicable data protection laws, you have the following rights regarding your personal information:

• Access: Request access to the personal information we hold about you.

• Correction: Request corrections to inaccurate or incomplete information.

• Deletion: Request deletion of your personal information, subject to legal retention requirements.

• Objection: Object to the processing of your data for specific purposes, such as marketing.

• Restriction: Request restrictions on how your data is processed in certain circumstances.

• Data Portability: Request a copy of your data in a structured, commonly used format.
  To exercise these rights, please contact us at the details provided in Section 11. We will respond to your request within the timeframes prescribed by law, typically within 30 days.

 

9. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

 

Our website uses cookies and similar technologies to enhance user experience and analyze usage. Cookies may include:

• Essential Cookies: Necessary for website functionality, such as navigation and access to secure areas.

• Analytics Cookies: Used to collect anonymized data on website usage to improve performance.

• Marketing Cookies: Used to deliver relevant advertisements, only with your consent.
  You can manage cookie preferences through your browser settings or our website’s cookie consent tool. Disabling cookies may affect website functionality.

 

10. International Data Transfers

 

As a South Africa-based consultancy, Pinnacle Legal primarily processes data within the country. If your personal information is transferred to jurisdictions outside South Africa (e.g., for third-party service providers), we ensure appropriate safeguards, such as standard contractual clauses, are in place to comply with data protection laws.

 

11. Contact Us

 

If you have questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please contact us at:

• Email: pieter.sandt@pinnaclaw.co.za

• Phone: +27 82 925 7121

• Address: Pinnacle Legal, 135 Mackenzie Street, Brooklyn, Pretoria, South Africa
  We are committed to addressing your inquiries promptly and transparently.

 

12. Changes to This Privacy Policy

 

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. Updates will be posted on this page with the “Last Updated” date revised. We encourage you to review this policy periodically to stay informed.

 

13. Complaints

 

If you believe your privacy rights have been violated, you may lodge a complaint with us directly or with the Information Regulator in South Africa:

• Information Regulator: Email: complaints.IR@justice.gov.za

• Address: JD House, 27 Stiemens Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg, 2001, South Africa

 

Pinnacle Legal is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of privacy and data protection, ensuring your trust as we empower your business with exceptional legal solutions.