Data Protection & Compliance
Navigate UK GDPR with confidence and protect your business
Data protection isn't just a compliance box to tick, it's a fundamental part of how modern businesses operate. With the UK GDPR imposing significant obligations and potential fines of up to £17.5 million or 4% of global turnover, getting it right matters.
At Modern Legal, we make data protection practical. We understand that most businesses aren't looking for academic legal analysis, they need clear, actionable guidance on what they actually need to do to comply. That's exactly what we provide.
Whether you're starting from scratch, reviewing existing practices, or responding to a data breach, we help you implement proportionate, effective data protection measures that work for your business without unnecessary burden.
What We Help With
Comprehensive corporate legal services to support your business at every stage.
GDPR Compliance Programmes
Building comprehensive compliance frameworks tailored to your business operations.
- Compliance gap analysis
- Data mapping and inventories
- Lawful basis assessment
- Policy development
- Implementation support
Privacy Policies & Notices
Clear, compliant privacy documentation that meets legal requirements and builds trust.
- Website privacy policies
- Employee privacy notices
- Customer-facing notices
- Cookie policies
- CCTV and monitoring notices
Data Processing Agreements
Ensuring your relationships with processors and controllers are properly documented.
- Controller-processor agreements
- Data sharing agreements
- Sub-processor arrangements
- Joint controller agreements
- International data transfers
Subject Access Requests
Handling data subject rights requests properly and within legal timeframes.
- SAR response support
- Right to erasure requests
- Portability requests
- Objection handling
- Response templates and processes
Data Breach Response
Rapid, effective response when things go wrong, minimising regulatory and reputational risk.
- Breach assessment
- ICO notification support
- Individual notifications
- Remediation advice
- Post-incident review
Training & Ongoing Support
Building a culture of compliance with practical training and accessible advice.
- Staff awareness training
- DPO-as-a-service
- Compliance health checks
- Regulatory updates
- Ad-hoc advice retainers
Our Approach
A straightforward process designed to get you the right advice efficiently.
Assessment
We review your current data processing activities and identify compliance gaps.
Prioritisation
We help you prioritise actions based on risk, focusing resources where they matter most.
Implementation
We provide the policies, documents, and guidance needed to achieve compliance.
Ongoing Support
We remain available for questions, updates, and new compliance challenges as they arise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to comply with UK GDPR?
If you process personal data of individuals in the UK, yes. This applies to almost every business, from sole traders to large corporations. The only question is what compliance looks like for your specific activities.
Do I need a Data Protection Officer?
You must appoint a DPO if you're a public authority, your core activities involve large-scale monitoring of individuals, or you process special category data on a large scale. Even if not required, many businesses benefit from designated data protection responsibility.
What happens if I have a data breach?
You need to assess whether the breach poses a risk to individuals. If so, you must notify the ICO within 72 hours and may need to inform affected individuals. We can help you assess and respond to breaches quickly.
Can I transfer data outside the UK?
Yes, but there are rules. Transfers to "adequate" countries are straightforward. For others, you need appropriate safeguards like Standard Contractual Clauses. We can help structure compliant international transfers.
How often should I review my data protection compliance?
We recommend at least annual reviews, plus whenever you introduce new processing activities, systems, or significant business changes. Regular health checks help you stay ahead of issues.
What are the penalties for non-compliance?
The ICO can impose fines of up to £17.5 million or 4% of global annual turnover (whichever is higher) for serious breaches. However, the ICO typically takes a proportionate approach, often focusing on remediation for smaller businesses.
Need Help With Data Protection?
Whether you're building compliance from scratch or need specific advice, book a free consultation to discuss your needs.