Client Confidentiality Includes the Identity of the Client.

Posted By Cliff Tuttle | February 12, 2009

Posted by Cliff Tuttle

As lawyers, we all are pledged and obligated to client confidentiality. We can forget that this can extend to the very fact of the lawyer-client relationship. It should never be assumed that a client consents to the use of his name in marketing materials or even casual conversation. It may be public record, but every member of the public isn’t aware of everything spread on the docket. It doesn’t hurt remind office staff from time to time, either. This is especially true when a celebrity, even a minor one, has business with the office.

Some people ask how to respond to a pointed question involving confidential information without giving away the answer. No reason to lie to protect a secret, ever. Just say, with a wise look in your eye, “You know I can’t answer that question.” And mean it.

CLT

Welcome

CLIFF TUTTLE has been a Pennsylvania lawyer for over 45 years and (inter alia) is a real estate litigator and legal writer. The posts in this blog are intended to provide general information about legal topics of interest to lawyers and consumers with a Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania focus. However, this information does not constitute legal advice and there is no lawyer-client relationship created when you read this blog. You are encouraged to leave comments but be aware that posted comments can be read by others. If you wish to contact me in privacy, please use the Contact Form located immediately below this message. I will reply promptly and in strict confidence.

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