Comprehensive Information Governance Programs

What do records management and document retention policies and programs encompass?

Effective records management and document retention policies and programs share three essential features: (1) systematically creating, storing, and disposing of records; (2) adhering to legal requirements; and (3) enhancing operational efficiency. In addition, strong records management ensures that businesses comply with relevant regulations and can promptly access crucial information when necessary.

Consider, for example, Florida businesses experiencing rapid growth, leading to a surge in paperwork and electronic records. To boost operational efficiency and legal compliance, these companies could implement a records management policy specifying which documents to retain, the duration of retention, and the method of secure disposal. As a result, they streamline operations while ensuring compliance with pertinent Florida and federal laws.

Need to review and improve your records management and document retention practices? Schedule your consultation today with a top records management and document retention attorney.

Which laws, rules, and regulations apply to records management and document retention policies and programs in Florida?

Various laws and regulations govern records management and document retention policies and programs in Florida. Key among them is Florida’s Public Records Act (Chapter 119), which outlines public records requirements for businesses operating in the state. In addition, Florida’s General Records Schedule GS1-SL offers guidelines on record retention periods and disposal procedures for state and local government entities.

Businesses operating in regulated industries must also comply with federal records management laws, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) for healthcare organizations and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX) for publicly traded companies. Adherence to these laws ensures that businesses maintain proper records management and document retention policies and programs, promoting a seamless workflow and legal compliance.

How do comprehensive information governance programs connect to records management and document retention?

Florida and federal laws require businesses to establish and maintain records management and document retention policies to ensure compliance with various legal requirements. A comprehensive information governance program is a systematic approach to managing the lifecycle of data and records while adhering to legal and regulatory requirements. By implementing such a program, businesses can ensure they meet their obligations under Florida and federal law. As a result, companies can efficiently manage the retention and disposal of records, ensure legal compliance, and mitigate the risk of penalties or fines.

How do poor records management and document retention policies and programs lead to business risk exposure?

Ineffective policies and programs commonly lead to litigation regarding the following issues:

• Non-compliance with regulatory requirements: Failing to comply with federal, state, or industry-specific regulations, such as HIPAA or SOX, can lead to fines, penalties, and reputational damage.
• Difficulty responding to legal requests: Inefficient records management can hinder a business’s ability to locate and produce documents during litigation, audits, or investigations, potentially resulting in adverse legal outcomes or increased costs.
• Data breaches and privacy violations: Inadequate security measures or improper disposal of records may expose sensitive information, potentially leading to data breaches, identity theft, and violations of privacy laws.
• Loss of critical business information: Poor records management can result in the loss or misplacement of essential documents, impacting business operations, decision-making, and long-term viability.
• Increased storage and retrieval costs: Inefficient records management may lead to excessive storage expenses and time-consuming document retrieval processes, reducing overall business efficiency.
• Inability to defend intellectual property rights: Inadequate documentation and record-keeping can compromise a business’s ability to protect and enforce its intellectual property rights, such as patents, trademarks, or copyrights.

To determine whether your unique situation may necessitate litigation or another form of specialized advocacy, please contact our office to set up your initial consultation.

What are effective measures to implement comprehensive information governance programs, and how do businesses strategically benefit?

Counsel should consider the following to protect their clients:

• Assess current records management and document retention practices.
• Review and understand relevant Florida and federal regulations.
• Implement proper training and communication to ensure all employees understand the policy.
• Monitor and update the policy regularly to maintain compliance with changing laws and regulations.

Strategic benefits for businesses include:

• Improved operational efficiency through streamlined data management.
• Reduced legal risks and potential fines.
• Enhanced data security and privacy.
• Increased trust and reputation among clients and partners.

Please contact our office to schedule your initial consultation and determine what legal advocacy and protection may be available for your unique situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What types of records are subject to Florida’s public records law?

Florida’s public records law applies to all documents, papers, letters, maps, books, tapes, photographs, films, sound recordings, data processing software, or other materials, regardless of physical form, made or received in connection with the transaction of official business by any agency.

2. How long should businesses retain their records under Florida and federal law?

Retention periods vary depending on the record type and the specific law or regulation governing it. For example, some financial records may need to be retained for seven years, while medical records may need to be retained for a more extended period under HIPAA regulations.

3. What is the role of legal counsel in developing an information governance program?

Legal counsel plays a crucial role in developing an information governance program by ensuring compliance with relevant Florida and federal laws, advising on best practices, and assisting with developing policies and procedures to manage records effectively.

Have more questions about records management and document retention?

Crucially, this overview of comprehensive information governance programs does not begin to cover all the laws implicated by this issue or the factors that may compel the application of such laws. Every case is unique and may produce different outcomes depending on the individual circumstances.

Jimerson Birr attorneys guide our clients to help make informed decisions while ensuring their rights are respected and protected. Our lawyers are highly trained and experienced in the nuances of the law, so they can accurately interpret statutes and case law and holistically prepare individuals or companies for their legal endeavors. Through this intense personal investment and advocacy, our lawyers will help resolve the issue’s complicated legal problems efficiently and effectively.

Having a Jimerson Birr attorney on your side means securing a team of seasoned, multi-dimensional, cross-functional legal professionals. Whether it is a transaction, an operational issue, a regulatory challenge, or a contested legal predicament that may require court intervention, we remain tireless advocates at every step. Being a value-added law firm means putting the client at the forefront of everything we do. We use our experience to help our clients navigate even the most complex problems and come out the other side triumphant.

If you want to understand your case, the merits of your claim or defense, potential monetary awards, or the amount of exposure you face, you should speak with a qualified Jimerson Birr lawyer. Our experienced team of attorneys is here to help. Call Jimerson Birr at (904) 389-0050 or use the contact form to schedule a consultation.