When Lawyers Can Speak: Self-Defense Exception to Confidentiality
Under Rule 1.6(c)(4) of the Pennsylvania Rules of Professional Conduct — and similar rules in many states — a lawyer may disclose confidential client information “to the extent the lawyer reasonably believes necessary” to defend against criminal charges, civil claims, or disciplinary actions arising from allegations of misconduct. In other words, if a client sues for malpractice or accuses her …