Editor's note: Richard Ryan is an executive director and barrister with Willis. This entry originally ran on WillisWire. 

The UK's Information Commissioner's Office recently highlighted the risks that barristers and solicitors face when handling personal information–but they apply equally to anyone in the legal profession around the world. The ICO sent out the warning after being notified of 15 breaches in the past three months.

Lawyers typically hold very sensitive data, which could inevitably mean that the financial penalty that would be imposed could hit the ceiling at £500,000. This level of fine is truly substantial for any legal practice. Beware though, that this could be much more when the European Data Privacy Regulations come into force.

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