ABA Changes Ethics Rules on Client Confidentiality
The American Bar Association (ABA) rejected a proposed rule that would have enabled attorneys to disclose information to police where a client uses the lawyer to commit a crime or fraud. However, the ABA did adopt a rule allowing attorneys to inform officials where a client plans to take an action that will cause "reasonably certain death or substantial bodily harm." The ABA ethics rules are not binding on attorneys. But, they are often used as model law by state legislatures and bar associations.ABA Grapples With Questions of Privilege, Law.com, August 8, 2001 (cookies required).
Lawyers May Reveal Secrets of Clients, Bar Group Rules, New York Times, August 8, 2001 (registration required).
