As a recognized leader in the field with more than 20 years of experience in privacy and data protection, I advise companies, industry associations, and other organizations on global privacy and data protection compliance and strategy. I understand the need for pragmatic and actionable advice that enables my clients to meet their objectives while complying with the law and managing risk. I was previously Chief Privacy Counsel at Microsoft, where, for over 18 years, I counselled on data protection compliance globally, and helped lead the company’s strategic initiatives on privacy differentiation and public policy. I also teach privacy law at the University of Washington School of Law, serve as an advisor to the American Law Institute’s project on Information Privacy Principles, and have served on multiple advisory boards for the International Association of Privacy Professionals and other organizations. I've testified before Congress, state legislatures, and European regulators; and am a sought-after speaker and regular writer on data protection issues. More details are available at https://hintzelaw.com/

I teach the Privacy Law course to the next generation of privacy leaders.

Provided and coordinated advice regarding privacy, security and related issues (spam, spyware, online safety, children's advertising). Worked with stakeholders across the company to develop strategies, policies, and guidelines on privacy and security. Reviewed proposed legislation and advocated Microsoft’s positions, including frequent public speaking and testifying before Congressional committees numerous times. Engaged in external outreach on privacy and security matters with industry organizations, consumer groups, and other audiences.

Advised clients on export controls and the regulation of encryption technologies by the U.S. and other nations. Researched and wrote memoranda, monitored legislative and regulatory developments, drafted congressional testimony, met with congressional staff and Administration officials, and participated in industry group meetings regarding encryption, privacy, digital signatures, and copyright issues. Researched and wrote memoranda on other issues including antitrust and consumer protection. Pro bono work included drafting portions of a state habeas corpus petition for a capital defendant.

Drafted Justice Robert Utter's majority and dissenting opinions. Wrote prehearing memoranda for use by all nine Justices of the Court. Drafted rulings on motions to modify denials of Supreme Court review.

Interviewed and advised clients at direct services organization. Researched and wrote memoranda on U.S. and South African law, including labor, employment, and landlord-tenant law. Drafted pleadings and affidavits for pending cases.

Researched and wrote memoranda for the Corporate, Labor, Immigration, and Litigation practice groups. Conducted interview and drafted political asylum application on behalf of pro bono client.

Researched law regarding procedures before international tribunals for cases before the Inter-American Court of Human Rights. Organized letter-writing campaigns on behalf of political prisoners in China, South Africa and Iran. Researched and drafted factual findings for report on human rights in El Salvador.

Researched issues under the Senator's direction, including public transportation and health care reform. Prepared a comprehensive analysis of an initiative to legalize physician-assisted euthanasia.