Privacy Policy

1. Scope and Acceptance

This Privacy Policy describes how Downard & Associates, PLLC (“we,” “us,” or “our”) collects, uses, and protects information when you visit downardlaw.com (the “Website”) or engage with us through case intake forms, phone calls, or in-person consultations.

By using our Website or services, you agree to the practices described in this Privacy Policy. If you do not agree with these practices, please do not use our Website or submit information to us.

2. Information We Collect

2.1 Information You Provide

We collect information you voluntarily submit through our Website or during consultations, including:

• Contact information (name, address, email, phone number)
• Medical condition and treatment information you choose to share
• Employment history relevant to your potential SSDI case
• Date of birth and Social Security Number (only when needed for representation)
• Information about prior SSDI applications or denials

2.2 Information Collected Automatically

When you visit our Website, we automatically collect certain technical information:

• IP address and approximate geographic location
• Browser type, operating system, and device information
• Pages visited, time spent on pages, referring URL
• Date and time of visit

3. How We Use Information

We use the information we collect to:

• Evaluate whether we can provide legal representation for your matter
• Communicate with you about your case and our services
• Provide legal services if we establish an attorney-client relationship
• Comply with legal and regulatory obligations
• Improve our Website and services
• Respond to inquiries and provide customer support
• Send relevant updates if you have opted in to communications

Important: Submitting information through our Website does not establish an attorney-client relationship. An attorney-client relationship is only created when both parties expressly agree, typically through a signed retainer agreement.

4. Information Sharing

We do not sell your personal information. We may share information in the following limited circumstances:

• With your authorization: When representing you, we share information with the Social Security Administration, medical providers, courts, and other entities necessary to advance your case
• Service providers: We use third-party service providers (such as our case management system, secure file storage, and email service) who are contractually bound to protect your information
• Legal requirements: When required by law, court order, or to protect our legal rights
• Business transfers: In connection with any merger, acquisition, or sale of firm assets, with appropriate confidentiality protections

5. Cookies and Tracking

Our Website uses cookies and similar tracking technologies to enhance your browsing experience and analyze Website usage. We use:

• Essential cookies: Required for basic Website functionality
• Analytics cookies: To understand how visitors use our Website (typically Google Analytics)
• Marketing cookies: If applicable, to measure the effectiveness of online advertising

You can control cookies through your browser settings. Disabling cookies may affect Website functionality.

6. Data Security

We implement reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your information from unauthorized access, disclosure, or destruction. However, no method of transmission over the Internet or electronic storage is 100% secure.

If you are submitting sensitive information (such as Social Security Numbers), we recommend doing so through our secure intake process rather than email. Contact us directly for guidance.

7. Your Rights

Depending on your jurisdiction, you may have rights regarding your personal information, including:

• The right to access information we have about you
• The right to correct inaccurate information
• The right to request deletion of information (subject to legal retention requirements)
• The right to opt out of marketing communications
• The right to receive a copy of your information in portable format

To exercise these rights, contact us using the information below. We will respond within the timeframe required by applicable law.

8. Children’s Privacy

Our Website is not directed to children under 18. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If you believe we have collected information from a child, please contact us immediately and we will delete it.

9. Policy Changes

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Material changes will be indicated by updating the “Last Updated” date at the top of this page. Continued use of our Website after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.