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IT Lawyers
Cover the legal risks associated with your business technology and software.
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Information technology (IT) has evolved so much over the last two decades that it now permeates virtually all aspects of human life. In the business world, companies and small businesses leverage the power of IT to optimise their product and service offerings, operations and distribution.
This reliance on technology has seen companies adopt expansive IT infrastructures and build relationships with IT service companies to maintain their systems. IT lawyers work with both IT companies and ordinary businesses that use IT, offering tailored legal services for all their needs.
Where to speak to an IT lawyer online
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What's in this guide?
What is an IT lawyer?
An IT lawyer or technology lawyer is a legal professional whose practice focuses on matters which relate to information technology. An IT lawyer will generally provide legal counsel to IT companies on issues such as domain name ownership, data protection, software licensing, intellectual property and digital privacy policies.
IT lawyers are essentially commercial lawyers who have deep expertise in technology and its associated legal requirements. They also counsel companies that use technology on matters like licensing and data security.
When should I use an IT lawyer?
You might consider using a technology lawyer if you have a company that offers software as a service or creates software products. The IT lawyer will provide guidance with regard to licensing, negotiating terms of use contracts, enforcing intellectual property rights and solving disputes with clients.
Furthermore, you might use an IT lawyer if you are an ecommerce company or a business that deploys cloud computing systems to optimise its operations. These businesses handle plenty of customer data, including address and payment information. Work with an IT lawyer to bolster your data protection, complying with regulations around customer privacy.
IT lawyers can also be required to represent a business in court during corporate disputes regarding technology.
IT lawyer vs media lawyer
An IT lawyer counsels companies on issues relating to technology and the law. He or she gives guidance on technology-related laws as well as matters like data privacy and software licensing.
A media lawyer is a legal professional who works with media companies. He or she supports the work of artists, distributors and broadcasters with legal assistance on matters like copyrights, trademarks and selling or purchasing rights to content.
What does an IT lawyer do?
An IT lawyer is a legal professional who offers clients legal counsel on:
- Forming a tech startup
- Securing domain name ownership
- Implementing privacy policies
- Creating website terms and conditions of use
- Ensuring compliance with data privacy and cyber security laws
For established companies that deploy cloud infrastructure or license software, an IT lawyer will offer legal counsel on:
- Negotiating licensing agreements and other contracts
- Preparing and reviewing terms of use policies
- Securing, monitoring and enforcing intellectual property protections
- Complying with evolving internet and cyber laws both in Australia and beyond
Where disputes arise around technology matters, an IT lawyer will offer legal representation in court proceedings.
What does an IT lawyer not do?
An IT lawyer does not offer legal counsel on matters outside information technology and basic commercial law. He or she will not offer services in the areas of divorce, personal injury, negligence and bankruptcy.
How effective is an IT lawyer?
An IT lawyer is knowledgeable on both matters of commercial and IT law. Because of this dual background, the lawyer is well-placed to offer guidance on compliance with technology laws, minimising your exposure to technology-related legal risks.
Beyond lowering risk, a lawyer can help you respond to a legal dilemma such as a data breach and cyber attack. Regulators today are keen on enforcing consumer privacy laws and take stern action against companies that compromise customers' data. Technology lawyers have experience handling such matters and can guide your engagement with regulators, securing fair penalties. They will further work alongside you to strengthen internal security measures.
Do I need an IT lawyer?
All businesses use technology products in some way. As a business owner, you may need to hire an IT lawyer to look into the depths of your technology tools and services, picking out aspects that expose you to legal risks. Many of these you may not even be aware of. New technologies such as artificial intelligence, fintech and cloud computing are hard to understand but have regulations around their usage. Retaining an IT lawyer means your compliance matters will be taken care of so you focus on day-to-day operations.
Furthermore, if you license software products or develop software products for licensing, an IT lawyer will negotiate the most favorable license agreements for your business.
Where to get a free quote for an IT lawyer
You can get a free quote for an IT lawyer from one of the following services:
- LawPath. An online marketplace for lawyers, Lawpath will connect you with lawyers who are competent and ready to assist.
- LegalVision. A full-service online law firm, LegalVision offers both legal counsel and access to legal documents. All you have to do is sign up and pay a subscription fee.
- State Law Society offices. Australia's state law societies have lawyer search tools that can refer you to an IT lawyer near you.
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