Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

Business ethics call for patent attorneys to not disclose any ideas that they hear from their clients, but for those first complimentary consultations (before any letter of engagement is signed etc.), is there any actual legal protection on things discussed in that meeting?  The client-attorney relationship has not been established at that point right? 

Does anyone know? 

For those who have gone on their complimentary meetings, have you found it helpful that your questions were answered so you could begin your next steps?  What`s your experience? 

Generally speaking, attorneys are not allowed to relay any information discussed in a consultation meeting unless they have you sign a specific agreement stating that there is no confidentiality or attorney/client relationship.  If you are seeking legal advice while meeting with the attorney, client confidentiality attaches even if you have not established a formal attorney client relationship.


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Jeffrey C. Neu, Esq.
Intellectual Property, Internet, and Technology Law
www.jeffreyneu.com
Posts and all discussion is for discussion purposes only and does not represent legal advice.