Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

Cotten Law Firm, PLLC ("we," "our," or "us") is committed to protecting the privacy of our clients and website visitors. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you use our website, client portal, or legal services.

2. Information We Collect

We may collect the following types of information:

• Personal Information: Name, date of birth, address, phone number, email address, driver's license number, Social Security Number (when required for DMV records)
• Case Information: Court case numbers, charges, court dates, case disposition
• Payment Information: Payment method details (processed securely through LawPay)
• Communications: Messages sent through our client portal or SMS system
• Technical Data: IP address, browser type, and usage data when visiting our website

3. How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

• Provide legal representation and services
• Communicate with you about your case via phone, email, or SMS
• Send court date reminders and case updates
• Process payments for legal services
• Comply with legal and regulatory requirements
• Improve our services and website

4. Attorney-Client Privilege

All communications between you and Cotten Law Firm, PLLC related to your legal representation are protected by attorney-client privilege. We will not disclose privileged information without your consent, except as required by law or court order.

5. Information Sharing

We do not sell, trade, or rent your personal information to third parties. We may share your information only in the following circumstances:

• Service Providers: With trusted third parties who assist in operating our business (payment processing, SMS delivery) under strict confidentiality agreements
• Legal Requirements: When required by law, court order, or to protect our legal rights
• With Your Consent: When you have given explicit permission

6. SMS Communications

If you provide your mobile phone number and consent to SMS communications, we may send you text messages regarding your case. You can opt out at any time by replying STOP to any message or contacting our office. For more details, see our SMS Communication Consent page.

7. Data Security

We implement appropriate technical and organizational security measures to protect your personal information against unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction. However, no method of transmission over the Internet is 100% secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

8. Data Retention

We retain your personal information for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this policy, comply with legal obligations, resolve disputes, and enforce our agreements. Client files are retained in accordance with North Carolina State Bar requirements.

9. Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Access the personal information we hold about you
• Request correction of inaccurate information
• Request deletion of your information (subject to legal retention requirements)
• Opt out of SMS communications
• Withdraw consent for non-essential data processing

10. Children's Privacy

Our services are not directed to individuals under 18 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 18 without parental consent.

11. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of any material changes by posting the new policy on this page and updating the effective date.

12. Contact Us

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please contact us: