Data Security & Privacy

Strategic Data Protection and Privacy Advice

Holmes advises organisations on data protection, privacy risk and cyber security incidents, providing commercially focused legal advice that withstands regulatory scrutiny. We support clients across the full lifecycle of data compliance, from designing GDPR-aligned governance frameworks to managing cyber incidents, regulatory engagement and enforcement risk.

Working closely with senior management, legal and technical teams, we tailor privacy strategies to your operations, risk profile and sector-specific requirements, helping you protect sensitive data while safeguarding reputation and business continuity.

Our services include:

•  Data protection audits, risk assessments, and privacy notices

•  Consent models and responses to data access requests

•  International data transfers and contractual safeguards

•  Privacy by design and internal governance policies

Cybersecurity Breach Response

When a breach occurs, Holmes acts quickly and strategically. We help clients manage legal exposure, engage regulators, and stabilise operations, while preserving confidentiality throughout the process.

Recent work includes:

•  Advising on a cyberattack affecting over 30,000 personal records

•  Managing communications with the Data Protection Commission

•  Coordinating with forensic specialists and internal teams

•  Limiting reputational and legal impact

Cyber Insurance Legal Counsel

Holmes is regularly engaged by cyber insurers, loss adjusters, and policyholders. We provide commercially focused legal advice on policy coverage, regulatory obligations, and liability management. Our team combines knowledge of insurance, data protection, and litigation to provide practical, high-pressure legal support during and after breach events.

Enforcement Defence & Privacy Litigation

Our litigation team has successfully defended clients in privacy-related investigations and court actions. We work closely with clients to prepare clear regulatory responses and represent them in both administrative and legal proceedings. Our experience includes:

• Secured one of Ireland’s first data protection injunctions, stopping unlawful processing of child data by a multinational technology company.

• Recovered €300,000 in stolen client funds after a cyber fraud attack, coordinating with a foreign bank and local counsel to secure a full return through litigation.

• Advised an aviation company following a major cyberattack, managing regulator engagement and legal response after a breach affecting a significant volume of personal data.

Trusted Advisors in Data Protection and Privacy

Holmes combines deep regulatory expertise with strong litigation capability to support organisations facing complex data protection, privacy and cyber risk. Our senior-led teams provide swift, strategic advice, drawing on trusted relationships with key regulators, including the Data Protection Commission, and a proven track record across privacy, cyber incidents and insurance-related matters. If you require advice or a confidential discussion, our experienced data protection lawyers are available to support you.