can a lawyer reveal the identity of a client

by Jacey Mosciski 7 min read

An attorney is obligated to disclose his client's identity, regardless of whether it is privileged if his client is a party to a pending 1itigation.lThe cli- ent's identity must also be disclosed if the privilege is invoked to cloak illegal activity.le In some cases, the court will use a balancing test in making its determination regarding disclosure.17 The test usually involves a balancing of the interests of the court in the ad- ministration of justice against the right of freedom of communica- tion between a client and his attorney.

"In most situations, the identity of a client is not considered confidential and in such circumstances Attorney may disclose the fact of the representation to Prospective Client without Witness Client's consent." Citing to Los Angeles County Bar Association Professional Responsibility and Ethics Committee Op.Mar 14, 2018

Full Answer

Can a lawyer reveal information about a client?

Client's Identity 199 the attorney should refuse to disclose it." Once a client's identity is determined to fall under the protec- tion of the privilege, the protection is not absolute. An attorney is obligated to disclose his client's identity, regardless of whether it is privileged if his client is a party to a pending 1itigation.lThe cli-

Can a lawyer disclose confidential information to a potential client?

Mar 14, 2018 · All jurisdictions have a version of Rule 1.6, which provides that a lawyer "shall not reveal information relating to the representation of a client." Information that relates to the representation of a client is much broader than the information that fits into the evidentiary protection of attorney-client privilege.

Can a lawyer reveal confidential information to a third person?

Preliminary communications between a potential client and a lawyer are normally subject to the attorney-client privilege. That means that lawyers can’t disclose what prospective clients reveal in confidence even if the lawyers never ends up representing them. (In re Auclair, 961 F.2d 65 (5th Cir. 1992).) To be sure, though, you should confirm with a prospective lawyer that the privilege …

Is Everything you Tell Your Lawyer privileged?

May 19, 2020 · As a general proposition, a client's identity is not protected by the attorney-client privilege and is therefore subject to subpoena. However, in cases where the disclosure of the client's identity necessarily discloses the substance of the legal advice provided to the client by the attorney, the privilege may apply.

Is client confidentiality a law?

The term “client” therefore is not limited to current clients, but also to former clients of the clinic. All client affairs must be kept confidential unless disclosure is required or permitted by the law, or unless the client consents to the disclosure. Any third parties should keep all client affairs confidential.

When can a lawyer break confidentiality?

When can a solicitor breach confidentiality? A solicitor cannot be under a duty of confidentiality if the client is trying to use them or the firm to commit fraud or other crimes. A client cannot make a solicitor the confidant of a crime and expect them to close up their lips upon any secret they dare to disclose.Jan 7, 2021

Is a client's name privileged information?

As a general proposition, a client's identity is not protected by the attorney-client privilege and is therefore subject to subpoena. When, however, disclosure of the client's identity necessarily discloses the substance of the legal advice provided to the client by the attorney, the privilege may apply.May 19, 2020

What information is covered by the duty of confidentiality?

In common law jurisdictions, the duty of confidentiality obliges solicitors (or attorneys) to respect the confidentiality of their clients' affairs. Information that solicitors obtain about their clients' affairs may be confidential, and must not be used for the benefit of persons not authorized by the client.

Can a lawyer disclose client information?

Introduction. Section 126 of the Evidence Act 1950 imposes a legal obligation on all solicitors to protect and keep confidential any information obtained from their clients, including any legal advice that has been proffered.Oct 6, 2020

Can I disclose confidential information to my lawyer?

In brief terms, confidential information may be disclosed where it is appropriate to do so but privilege is absolute, and privileged information cannot therefore be disclosed. Confidential communications between lawyers and clients for the purpose of obtaining and giving legal advice are privileged.Nov 25, 2019

Under what circumstances can an attorney reveal information about the client that the attorney obtained during the representation of that client?

(a) A lawyer shall not reveal information relating to the representation of a client unless the client gives informed consent, the disclosure is impliedly authorized in order to carry out the representation or the disclosure is permitted by paragraph (b).

Is a client name confidential?

"In most situations, the identity of a client is not considered confidential and in such circumstances Attorney may disclose the fact of the representation to Prospective Client without Witness Client's consent." Citing to Los Angeles County Bar Association Professional Responsibility and Ethics Committee Op.Mar 14, 2018

When can you disclose information about a client?

Generally, you can disclose confidential information where: The individual has given consent. The information is in the public interest (that is, the public is at risk of harm due to a patient's condition)Apr 5, 2019

What is the duty of confidentiality for a lawyer?

Lawyers have a duty to keep everything a client tells them confidential. This is an ethical and legal duty of the lawyer. The courts also respect the confidential nature of the lawyer-client relationship during a trial. Neither the client nor the lawyer will be asked to divulge in court what they have discussed.

When may a lawyer disclose confidences of his client?

Rule 21.01 - A lawyer shall not reveal the confidences or secrets of his client except; (a) When authorized by the client after acquainting him of the consequences of the disclosure; (b) When required by law; (c) When necessary to collect his fees or to defend himself, his employees or associates or by judicial action.

Why do lawyers have a duty of confidentiality?

The privilege protects communications between a lawyer and their client. Unlike legal advice privilege it also extends to communications with third parties relating to preparation of court proceedings.Jul 21, 2020