In our modern and increasingly digital world, personal data is constantly being collected, stored, and shared. Whether it’s your employer, the NHS, a local authority, a financial institution, or an online retailer — you have the right to expect that your private information will be handled responsibly and securely.
When this doesn’t happen, and your personal information is misused, lost, or unlawfully accessed, you may be entitled to compensation for a data breach under the GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018.
At Lacey Solicitors, with offices in Belfast and Dublin, we help clients across Northern Ireland recover damages for data protection failures — including sensitive NHS data breaches, employer misconduct, email leaks, and cyber-related incidents.
What Is a Data Breach?
A data breach occurs when your personal or sensitive information is accessed, shared, destroyed, lost, or altered without your permission. Examples include:
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Emails or letters sent to the wrong recipient
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Your medical records accessed or shared without consent
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Hacking or cyberattacks on organisations holding your data
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Lost or stolen USBs, files or devices containing your information
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Former employers mishandling your HR or disciplinary records
Who Can Make a Data Breach Claim in Northern Ireland?
You can make a claim if:
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You are an individual who has had personal or sensitive data breached
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You’ve suffered emotional distress, financial loss, or reputational harm
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The breach occurred due to the failings of a Data Controller or Data Processor, such as an employer, public body, school, GP practice, or hospital
We’ve helped clients across Belfast, Antrim, Newtownabbey, and surrounding areas claim against:
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The NHS and Trusts
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Local councils and public sector bodies
- Law firms and estate agents
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Schools and universities
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Large private employers
How Our Data Breach Solicitors in Belfast Handle Your Claim
We follow a clear, proven five-step process to handle your case effectively:
1. Consultation
We start with a confidential consultation to understand the nature and impact of the breach on your life. Whether the breach was recent or you only just discovered it, we will listen and advise.
2. Document Review
We gather and review all relevant evidence including breach notifications, correspondence, screenshots, or financial records that show the impact of the breach.
3. Legal Advice
We issue a Letter of Advice outlining:
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The legal basis for your claim
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The strength of your case
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Options for resolving the matter either informally or through the courts
4. Seeking Resolution
In many cases, we can resolve matters by negotiating with the party at fault. This could involve correspondence with their legal team or insurer, seeking a compensation settlement without the need for formal litigation.
5. Legal Proceedings
If a resolution is not reached, our data breach solicitors will discuss issuing proceedings in the County Court or High Court in Northern Ireland. We guide you throughout, from issuing the claim to attending court if required.
What Can I Claim For After a Data Breach?
Under UK law, you may be entitled to claim compensation for:
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Emotional distress (stress, anxiety, upset, embarrassment)
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Loss of control over your personal information
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Actual financial loss (e.g. if your bank account was accessed or your credit score affected)
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Time and inconvenience spent dealing with the fallout
There is no requirement to prove a financial loss in order to claim — emotional harm alone may be enough.
Why Choose Lacey Solicitors in Belfast?
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We are experienced data breach solicitors based in Belfast city centre
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We have advised on cases involving NHS Trusts, Police Forces and UK Governments as well as financial institutions
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We handle claims with sensitivity, professionalism, and discretion
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We offer clear legal advice, transparent fees, and a no-obligation initial consultation
Is There a Time Limit to Bring a Claim?
Yes. In most cases, you must bring your data protection claim within six years of the breach (or one year if it involves a public body and your rights under the Human Rights Act 1998). It’s always best to seek legal advice as early as possible.
Get Help with a Data Protection Claim in Belfast Today
If you believe your personal information has been mishandled, leaked, or misused, don’t delay in seeking legal advice. At Lacey Solicitors in Belfast, our dedicated data protection team is here to help you understand your rights and take action. We offer clear, confidential guidance and will support you in pursuing the compensation you are entitled to. Contact our Belfast office today or get in touch through our secure online enquiry form – your consultation is entirely confidential and comes with no obligation.
