Certified Legal Professional (CLP) Practice Exam

Was the attorney's comment at the dinner party about the client’s incident appropriate?

1. A) Yes, it was just a casual conversation

2. B) Yes, as the information was not protected

3. C) No, the attorney violated the duty of confidentiality

4. D) No, because it revealed private client details

The correct answer is: C) No, the attorney violated the duty of confidentiality

The attorney's comment at the dinner party is deemed inappropriate because it represents a violation of the duty of confidentiality owed to the client. This duty is fundamental in the legal profession, requiring attorneys to keep all information related to the representation of their clients private, unless given permission to disclose such information. Even in casual settings, discussing details about a client's case compromises the trust and privacy that clients expect when sharing sensitive information with their attorney. The ethical obligation to protect client confidentiality is paramount, regardless of whether the information is deemed protected under specific legal statutes. While other options suggest reasons for appropriateness, such as the casual nature of the conversation or the assumption that the information is not protected, these overlook the critical importance of maintaining confidentiality in any context. Legal professionals must always prioritize their client's privacy and avoid any disclosure that could jeopardize that trust.