Q&A
Law Department's representation and confidentiality during bill drafting process
0:10:16
·
78 sec
Speaker Adams questions Goode-Trufant about the Law Department's obligations during the bill drafting process, particularly regarding disclosure of representation and handling of sensitive information. Goode-Trufant explains the department's approach to maintaining confidentiality and ethical walls when necessary.
- Goode-Trufant explains that the approach depends on the particular bill, with fluid information flow in most cases
- She mentions the use of ethical walls when there are particular concerns on either side
- Goode-Trufant commits to not using information received from the Council in proceedings adverse to the Council and to maintaining confidentiality unless directed by a court of law
Adrienne E. Adams
0:10:16
Thank you.
0:10:18
What obligation, if any, do law department attorneys have during the bill drafting process to disclose whether they're representing the council or the administration during the bill drafting process?
Muriel Goode-Trufant
0:10:32
It would depend on the particular bill.
0:10:35
With most bills there is a an overall process where we understand that there is fluid information flowing amongst the parties for the good of the city.
0:10:49
However, if there is a situation where there are particular concerns or on one side or the other we would erect an ethical wall to make certain that we were giving advice that was not disclosed to another entity.
Adrienne E. Adams
0:11:06
I see.
0:11:07
Okay.
0:11:08
Will you commit that the law department will not use any document or information received from the council in the course of representing or advising the council in any proceeding adverse to the council?
Muriel Goode-Trufant
0:11:21
Absolutely.
Adrienne E. Adams
0:11:21
Thank you.
0:11:22
Will you further commit that you will not disclose any such information to any third party, including any other client, without the express consent of the council unless directed by a court of law?
Muriel Goode-Trufant
0:11:34
Absolutely.
