Legal news

Compliance with new online cookie laws

Jonathan Winston Jonathan Winston
1 min read

The Information Commissioner's Office has published updated guidance for UK website owners on achieving compliance with the amended Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations 2003 and a report on enforcing the new legal regime on cookies.

The revised Regulations provide that the use of cookies is only allowed if the user concerned has been provided with clear and comprehensive information about the use of cookies and if the user has consented to that use. The ICO's original guidance, published in May 2011, had stated that the ICO would allow a lead-in period of 12 months for organisations to develop ways of meeting the cookie-related requirements of the Regulations before using its enforcement powers.

However, in the report the Information Commissioner expresses disappointment with the level of engagement shown by website owners so far. It stresses that where the ICO receives complaints, website owners must be able to demonstrate the steps they are taking and the timescale within which they expect to achieve compliance.

The practical advice included in the updated guidance is likely to go some way towards making website owners understand the steps they can, and will be expected to take, both with regard to the information they have to provide to users, the way in which it should be provided and the methods available for achieving consent.

Client feedback

I cannot speak for Winston Solicitors as a whole, but I can confidently recommend Leasa Foster, who we’ve used twice now for moving house. On both occasions she has been outstanding. Without her, I’m certain the chain would have fallen into disarray, and completion would have been delayed by at least a month or two.Leasa took control, coordinating solicitors both above and below us in the chain to ensure paperwork was completed on time. In fact, some of the documents that others were only just starting, she had already handled months in advance.Overall, I’m extremely satisfied with the service from Leasa, Julie, and the team at Winston Solicitors. I’ll have no hesitation using them again—unless Leasa moves firms!
Jack
We’ve used Winston Solicitors for three property transactions now, and they have been outstanding every time. Sidraa and Tom always go above and beyond – communication is clear, there are never any delays from their side, and the whole process is handled smoothly from start to finish. We’ve even recommended them to friends, who were equally impressed. I always get asked by Estate Agents to use their solicitors but always politely decline because of the service Sidraa and her team offer.
Tariq
Effecient and pay attention to every single details, highly recommended
Anonymous
Winston solicitor's was chosen by us to handle the conveyancing for our house sale and purchase. We were appointed Sam as our solicitor and we couldn't have asked for anyone better. Sam went above and beyond to assist me with my enquiries, demonstrating an impressive depth of knowledge. Our sellers solicitors could be quite problematic at times but Sam worked hard to ensure that obstacles were handled promptly, and that we were kept up to date with any progress.What stood out for me was Sam's genuine commitment to customer satisfaction. Her friendly demeanor and positive attitude created a welcoming atmosphere making me feel valued as a customer. In conclusion Sam exemplifies the epitome of customer service. Her professionalism, expertise, attention to detail and genuine care for the customer deserves recognition. I would not hesitate to recommend Sam to anyone seeking an exceptional service. Thank you for your outstanding support and dedication.
Mr & M
Winston Solicitors were excellent throughout our house purchase process. Leasa and Michelle who handed our conveyancing were very responsive. Highly recommend.
Mr Agunwa
I've used Winston Solicitors on multiple occasions for property sales an also to purchase and it will definately not be the last.This firm is professional and a massive shout out to sidraa who both times dealt with my purchase & sale of property.She is an absolute asset to Winston Solicitors and is the best out there at her job.Please keep up the great work and hopefully speak to you all again soon on my next purchase.
Noor
Winston solicitors were absolutely brilliant from start to finish. I was a first time buyer and had so many questions and worries. Michelle made the process as smooth has possible. She was always on hand to answer any queries and was very responsive. My purchase went through very fast. I could have not ask for a better solicitors and would highly recommend to anyone.
Kimberley
We’ve just completed a sale and purchase with Winston Solicitors and honestly couldn’t be more impressed with the service. Leasa, Julie and the team were fantastic from start to finish - thorough and very efficient, even when things were stressful and complex in our chain. Communication was clear and prompt throughout, and we always felt reassured that they were on top of every detail.It was our first time buying and selling which was quite a stressful process but we felt in very safe hands with Winstons and we wouldn't hesitate to recommend them. Thank you!
Emma
Contact Jonathan