RMT helps develop data system for legal firms

The business systems and IT support arm of Gosforth-based RMT Accountants and Business Advisors has teamed up with Oyez Professional Services to create the system, which enables legal practices to build up an information management security system step-by-step.

It features a range of detailed policies and practices that help users to comply with the requirements of the Data Protection Act and other regulations.

Paul Holborrow, head of RMT Technology, who has led the development of the new product range, said: “Client confidentiality and everything that entails is the touchstone of all law firms’ operations and as the public become ever more sensitive to how data about them is protected, it’s an issue that can’t be ignored.

“The SRA is placing responsibility for minimising information management risk and ensuring regulatory compliance squarely on such firms’ shoulders, and any failure to live up to these responsibilities could have serious consequences.

“We saw an opportunity to utilise our sector knowledge and create a system which brings these regulatory principles to life.”

RMT worked with the International Association of Accountants Innovation and Technology Consultants and the European Network and Information Security Agency.

The system is designed to meet the increasing requirements of the Information Commissioner’s Office and the Solicitors’ Regulation Authority over the handling of confidential client information.

Holborrow said: “We’ve already found that many law firms are looking for assistance to both help them understand these responsibilities and to put the controls and policies in place that they need.

“And we’re able to provide clear practical guidance that is founded on a sound, risk-based methodology that addresses these responsibilities. We are very pleased to be working with a major organisation like Oyez and to be leading the way on an increasingly important issue that is impacting on legal practices right across the UK.”

He added: “Law firms across the country are currently being invited by Oyez to participate in the largest survey yet of how the legal profession is complying with the regulation in this area.

“And the early indicators show there is work to be done to provide individuals and clients with the protection they need.

“The domestic market for this system is potentially huge and we’ve got plans in place that will enable us to tap this potential through the rest of this year and beyond.”