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Legal matters

Freedom of information

2 replies

Paperymoon · 24/09/2012 20:35

I know I probably need to see a lawyer but im a single mum and cant possibly afford it at the moment so this is a plea to some of the lawyers on MN that ive come across over the years - I've name changed because this is a bit sensitive but would be really grateful for thoughts.

I've been the subject of an investigation, into what I'm not quite sure but I believe in relation to (a totally legitimate) small business I was involved in.

I realise this sounds a bit paranoid but i became aware someone was asking questions about me and by shear coincidence was able to establish the questions originated from a large(ish) private detective agency type organization in my area.

Now I don't know what this company want with my information or what they propose to do with it but Im really worried about it all. Is there any point in making a request under the freedom of information act? I should add I know nothing about the law other than what I have learned from a frantic afternoon googling. I think I should be able to get copies of whatever they know a out me but there is apparently an investigation exception which I don't really understand.

Id be really grateful for some help or at least a pointer in the right direction so i can find more details. The business relates to a while ago and my ex and I are no longer together and I'm worried sick about why someone would details about me and my work.

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prh47bridge · 25/09/2012 10:08

You don't want to make a request under the Freedom of Information Act. That isn't how you find out what information they have got on you. You need to make a subject access request under the Data Protection Act.

Whether or not they have to disclose everything they hold depends on the reason they have been investigating. If they have been conducting a criminal investigation, for example, they won't have to disclose information to you.

If you are concerned I would make the request. The worst that can happen is they refuse to supply the information. If they do refuse you can refer the matter to the ICO who will rule on whether or not they were right to refuse your request.

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MrsSquirrel · 25/09/2012 11:12

The ICO is the Information Commissioner's Office. There is info on their web site about making requests here.

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