Introduction
Attorneys 4 All (A4A) is a non-governmental organisation providing free legal services, legal education, advocacy and community support to people and communities in need. A4A is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of people who use its website and services, as well as stakeholders, supporters and donors.
This Privacy Policy explains how A4A may collect, use, disclose and safeguard information when you visit the website, contact the organisation or use its services. It should be read together with any specific privacy notice provided when information is collected.
Information We May Collect
A4A may collect information that you voluntarily provide, including your name, age, address, contact details and information needed to understand your request for assistance. Because A4A provides legal services, information shared with the organisation may be sensitive or confidential.
The website may also collect technical information such as IP address, browser type, device information, pages visited, date and time of access, cookies and usage information.
How We Use Information
A4A may use information to: - respond to enquiries and requests; - assess eligibility for legal aid; - provide legal assistance and support services; - arrange and manage appointments; - communicate with beneficiaries about accepted matters; - improve the website and services; - conduct appropriate research and statistical analysis; - process donations where donation facilities are provided; - comply with legal obligations; and - protect the rights, safety and security of users and the organisation.
Confidentiality of Legal Communications
A4A recognises the importance of confidentiality in legal services. Information provided through the public website should be limited to what is reasonably necessary for the initial request. Submitting information through the website does not by itself create a lawyer-client relationship. Legal representation begins only after formal acceptance and confirmation by A4A.
Sharing of Information
A4A may share information with service providers used for data storage, email, website hosting or other necessary operational services where appropriate safeguards are in place. A4A may also share information where the person concerned has consented or where disclosure is required or permitted by law.
Legal and Safety Requirements
Information may be disclosed where necessary to comply with law or a court order, prevent fraud or abuse, protect a person from harm, defend legal claims, protect the rights and safety of users or A4A, or enforce applicable policies.
Cookies and Similar Technologies
The website may use cookies or similar technologies for essential functionality, preferences and understanding website usage. The cookies actually used by the website should be reflected in the website's cookie controls and notices. Users may be able to control cookies through browser settings, although disabling certain cookies may affect functionality.
Third-Party Links
The website may contain links to third-party websites or services. A4A does not control those websites and is not responsible for their content, availability, privacy practices or security. Users should review the privacy information provided by third-party services they use.
International Processing
Where website or technology service providers process information outside Sierra Leone, information may be transferred or processed in another jurisdiction subject to applicable law and appropriate safeguards.
Security and Data Minimisation
A4A seeks to collect only information reasonably necessary for the relevant purpose and to use appropriate administrative and technical measures to protect personal and confidential information. Users should not submit evidence, full case files or unnecessary confidential material through a general website form unless A4A specifically requests it through an approved secure process.
Changes to This Policy
A4A may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. The current version will be published on this page with an effective or review date once approved.
Contact
Questions about this Privacy Policy or the handling of information may be directed to info@attorneys4all.org or Attorneys 4 All, 2nd Floor, 50 Adelaide Street, Freetown, Sierra Leone.
Legal review note: This draft is based on client-supplied policy material and requires final A4A legal approval before publication, including confirmation of the exact Sierra Leonean data-protection references that should be cited.