What does a GDPR lawyer do?

Many search for a GDPR lawyer when they need legal support on data protection. In practice, this work is often carried out by experienced lawyers with specialist knowledge of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Their role is to guide companies and organisations through the law’s complex requirements and ensure all processing of personal data is lawful, secure and appropriately documented.

A lawyer with GDPR expertise can draft or review privacy policies, prepare records of processing activities under Article 30 GDPR, conduct data protection impact assessments under Article 35 GDPR and provide support in dealings with authorities. The work comprises both strategic advice and hands-on support to prevent risks and ensure compliance.

A GDPR lawyer’s role in a personal data breach

In the event of a personal data breach, a lawyer specialised in GDPR is a critical resource. The role includes quickly mapping the incident, determining which personal data have been affected and ensuring that the obligations under Articles 33 and 34 GDPR are met. This includes, among other things, assessing whether a notification should be made to the Data Protection Agency and preparing accurate, clear information for affected data subjects when they must be informed.

The key actions a GDPR specialist can initiate in a personal data breach are:

• Rapid analysis: Assess the scope, categories of personal data and possible consequences.
• Statutory reporting: Ensure notification to the Data Protection Agency within 72 hours.
• Communication to data subjects: Draft clear and legally accurate notices to those affected.
• Follow-up and improvement: Identify gaps and propose measures to strengthen protections.

After the immediate response, the lawyer can help conduct a thorough root-cause analysis and propose long-term improvements. This may include enhanced IT security, updated procedures and staff training.

Strengthening your DPO function – a compliance perspective

For organisations with an appointed Data Protection Officer (DPO), a lawyer specialised in GDPR can provide valuable reinforcement, especially for complex assessments, incident management and the development of governance documents requiring both legal precision and business understanding.

Collaboration between the DPO and a GDPR lawyer delivers a more proactive approach and reduces the risk of shortcomings in GDPR compliance. It helps ensure that processes, risk assessments and documentation meet both legal requirements and internal objectives.

At Morling Consulting, we provide solutions that strengthen your work with the GDPR – in urgent matters and in day-to-day compliance. Whether you need general GDPR advice or an external DPO, we have the expertise to assist you.