These summaries were prepared by McGuireWoods LLP lawyer Thomas E. Spahn. They are based on the letter opinions issued by the Virginia State Bar. Any editorial comments reflect Mr. Spahn's current personal views, and not the opinions of the Virginia State Bar, McGuireWoods or its clients. 
 
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ABA-459

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27-Litigation Tactics (Including Misrepresentations, Tape Recordings)

31-Protecting and Disclosing Confidences and Secrets

A lawyer representing an employee who might communicate with the lawyer using the employer's email system should warn the employee that the employer's policy might allow it to access such communications. Lawyers ordinarily should take the same step if they represent clients using library or hotel computers, or using a home computer that can be accessed by adverse family members. This disclosure duty arises "once the lawyer has reason to believe that there is a significant risk" that the client might communicate through means that third parties can access.

Copyright 2000, Thomas E. Spahn