Client Confidentiality

1336 Words3 Pages

In order for attorneys to effectively represent their clients rules govern how and what information is gathered, used, and stored or destroyed. The unit three seminar discusses the rules that regulate these things during and after the representation of a client. There are several systems in place that protect clients and their confidential information from being misused by those who are involved in their cases and legal matters. The duty of confidentiality, attorney/client privilege, and the work product privilege are the topics discussed during this seminar for the purpose of teaching the differences between them all as well as how each works and for what purpose. The duty of confidentiality refers to attorneys and their duty to keep their clients confidential information confidential. Clients must have some guarantee that lawyers will not divulge any of their confidential information so that they are able to seek early legal assistance and the duty of confidentiality allows them to do so. This duty also allows the client to feel secure when consulting with an attorney so that the attorney is able to gather all the necessary information needed to provide effective representation. Confidential information is all information that relates to the representation of a client no matter where the information comes from (Orlik, D. Ethics for the Legal Professional. Pp. 80). Even if the information is known publicly it is considered confidential to the attorney and their agents if it is information that relates to the representation of their client. Attorneys and their agents are bound by the duty of confidentiality to their clients forever. This means after the case is closed and even after client has passed away. The exce... ... middle of paper ... ...le of evidence and protects the client from having his lawyer divulging their secrets under oath. This means that a lawyer is prohibited from being called to testify against his client in court with secrets the client shared with the attorney. Finally, the work product doctrine protects all of the information, evidence, and work gathered and prepared by attorneys and their agents while preparing for trial. This means that the opposing side is not allowed to obtain discovery of any work that was done, documents, notes, interviews or interrogatories, and information that was discovered and organized for litigation. These systems are very important because they protect clients by ensuring that they are able to be given reasonable representation in legal matters as well as an opportunity to present their case in court which ensures that our rights as citizens are upheld.

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