What can I tell my solicitor in confidence?
Solicitors owe a duty of confidentiality to their clients.
However, there are exceptions to this rule, the most recent being the obligation on law firms to report clients whom they suspect of money-laundering.
If a solicitor has a suspicion that a client is attempting to launder money, he or she has a duty under the law to report them to the Metropolitan Police who have a Special Unit – the National Crime Investigation Service - dedicated to the task of tracking down money launderers.
The solicitor cannot tell the client that they have been reported - otherwise the solicitor will have committed an offence known as “tipping off” and will go to prison as a result.
Solicitors also can reveal confidential information that they believe is necessary to prevent a client or a third party committing a criminal act that they reasonably believe could result in serious bodily harm.
A number of laws empower government and other bodies, for example the HM Revenue and Customs, to require disclosure of documents and/or information. Solicitors may have to provide information in these circumstances.
Find a lawyer >>
Use our free and confidential Matching Service to compare law firms and prices
Other guide articles
Negotiating corporate tax regimes
Complex tax regimes mean that companies must seek the right strategic advice from a tax lawyer to ensure the success of corporate transactions in a global business world.
Green shoots for M&A lawyers
M&A lawyers are predicting a better year as corporates venture out on the deal path.
Need to Know articles
What to do if you are going bankrupt
Bankruptcy and the need for bankruptcy legal help is on the increase.
