Spotlight on...
Bethany Paliga
Solicitor and Accredited Data Protection Practitioner
I qualified as a solicitor in 2017 into the Governance, Procurement and Information (GPI) team at Forbes Solicitors. Prior to qualifying, I worked as a paralegal in the Housing Litigation department where I worked on ASB and other property dispute. Since qualifying, I have led the ‘Information Law’ element of the GPI team, focussing on data protection, GDPR and Freedom of Information advice to clients.
I specialise in advising clients in the public, quasi-public and third sectors, predominantly in the fields of social housing and education. I obtained my Accredited Data Protection Practitioner certificate in December 2019, following lots of studying and a final 3 hour exam.
I have worked with a number of RPs since qualifying and regular advise them on the following:
- GDPR compliance;
- Supporting DPOs to discharge their statutory duties under the GDPR;
- Assessing GDPR compliance;
- Handling and supporting RPs following personal data breaches;
- Handling and supporting RPs with subject access requests and other requests made from individuals; and
- Preparing various policy and procedure documents.
Qualifications
I studied law at university before passing the Legal Practice Course with a Distinction at the College of Law in Manchester. Last year, I also obtained the PDP Data Protection Practitioner Accreditation, achieving a Distinction.
Three words that describe me
Calm, dependable and hardworking.
Hobbies and interests
I enjoy running with my dog and pre-Covid we would make a regular appearance at our local Parkrun. Prior to lockdown, I was training to take part in my first triathlon and I am looking forward to the event being rescheduled in the future. I also live with avid motocross rider so my weekends are often spent watching my family ride in all weathers. One day I hope to be able to spectate from the luxury of a campervan rather then stood outside braving the elements!
Favourite food and drink
Anyone who knows me, knows that I love to eat but as a busy professional and a mum, anything that I have not cooked myself is my favourite! A G&T on the side would also be very much appreciated. |