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In order to provide “proper” representation, a lawyer
must know all the facts so that
appropriate legal advice and recommendations may be given.
The information and facts of any particular situation
may be embarrassing, hurtful, silly, or upsetting. That information may includes
facts the client feels may hurt their own case as well as facts that may
help their case. However, the only way that any lawyer can give proper advice
if to know everything the client knows about the situation about which
advice is sought.
Lawyers are bound by an ethical code that requires that
they keep information provided in strict confidence. Accordingly, anything a
client tells to a lawyer representing that client or tells any personnel in
the lawyers’ office is private and confidential and will not be disclosed
without the client’s permission – this is called the “attorney-client
privilege.”
Similarly, it is very important that you not discuss any
advice or recommendations we may have given you with anyone else. Disclosure
of attorney-client confidences to any third person waives the
attorney-client privilege. Because of this fact, please do not be offended
if we ask that you not bring friends or relatives with you into a meeting
with your attorney. We understand your need for moral support, but we are
very concerned that you receive unencumbered advice regarding your specific
situation that we cannot do with a third party in the office.
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