How should a lawyer handle confidential information about a client?

A lawyer must always keep a client's confidential information private unless the client has given clear consent to disclose it. This principle is fundamental to the attorney-client privilege, which serves to foster open communication between clients and their attorneys. By ensuring that clients feel safe sharing sensitive information, they can receive the best legal advice and representation.

Confidentiality is essential not just for maintaining a trusting relationship with clients; it’s also a statutory obligation under both the California Rules of Professional Conduct and the law. This obligation extends to all information relating to the representation of a client, regardless of the source of the information. Therefore, even when there might be a temptation to share information for the benefit of the firm or among colleagues, doing so without explicit permission violates the duty of confidentiality.

The alternatives suggest sharing information inappropriately or treating it in a way that compromises the client's trust and legal protections, which directly contradicts the ethical obligations that govern lawyers' conduct. Thus, the focus remains firmly on preserving confidentiality consistently and respecting the client's autonomy regarding their information.