In handling confidential information about ongoing matters, what is expected?

• A. Not reveal confidential information to protect client interests.
• B. Share confidential notes with colleagues freely.
• C. Publish confidential information online for transparency.
• D. Disclose confidential information to the press to gain leverage.

Answer: (A)

Protecting client confidences is central when handling information about ongoing matters. A lawyer must not disclose confidential information about a client or their case unless disclosure is authorized by the client, required by law or a court order, or necessary for providing legal services. This duty safeguards the client’s interests, preserves solicitor–client privilege, and upholds the integrity and trust essential to the legal process. Therefore, the expectation is to keep confidences and only disclose in permitted circumstances. Sharing confidential notes with colleagues without a justified need-to-know, publishing confidential information online, or disclosing it to the press would breach this duty and could amount to professional misconduct or harm the client’s interests.