can a lawyer give info on a case to a civilian without permission?

Question

the civilian is not part if the case

Answer 1

That depends on the nature of the information. Some things are public record. Almost all court filings are public record and if the attorney gives out information that is in the public record than the lawyer is not violating attorney/client privilege. However, if the lawyer is giving out information that the client told him and did not attain permission from the client, then he is guilty of violating attorney/client privilege.

Answer 2

Attorney client privilege protects the privacy of the client. The attorney is prohibited from disclosing details of a case which might identify the client. If the attorney can use the term, "Mr. X" and relate tha facts of a case so that no one can identify who Mr. X is, there should be no problem. This privilege is also subject to court orders restricting the release of ANY information regarding a case. In such an instance, the order is even stricter than the Att/cl. privilege.

Matters of public record, such as the names of parties and items contained in pleadings may be disclosed unless sealed by the court.

Answer 3

That would depend upon the circumstances. Simply blurting out something to someone not a party to the case would certainly be unethical. However, it is often impossible to avoid revealing some things while investigating the facts of a case or searching for evidence.

This assumes that we're talking about something protected by attorney-client priviledge. Opposing counsel is not restricted by this and is free to discuss the case unless a gag order has been imposed.

Answer 4

Nope... to do so is a violation of attorney / client privilege

Answer 5

No. It is a violation of attorney ethics and they could be disbarred for doing so.

Answer 6

no