Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Michigan
Can I have someone present with me when I talk to my attorney about my case?
I want to have my friend to be with me when I discuss my case with my lawyer. My lawyer says they can only talk to me about my case. Can I give my attorney written permission to discuss my case with me and my friend? I trust this person and value their opinion and feel they will help make sure my case is handled in my best interest.
I need to know as soon as possible,since we are discussing settlements.
Thank you.
3 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Can I have someone present with me when I talk to my attorney about my case?
Yes. However, conversations you have with your attorney while another person, not a party to the litigation, is present waives any privilege and could be discoverable by the opposing party. Most people should listen to their attorney when he or she advises them not to discuss the case with other people or bring others into a meeting with their attorney. Allowing a third party's presence in the meeting could seriously undermine your case, no matter how much you trust that third party. This e-mail is a generalized response to a question. You should not take any action or refrain from action based on the comments in this e-mail. This e-mail should not replace a consultation with an attorney to discuss the issues in more detail, nor does not it create an attorney client relationship.
Re: Can I have someone present with me when I talk to my attorney about my case?
You absolutely can have someone else with you when you talk to your attorney. Bill Stern 248-353-9400
Re: Can I have someone present with me when I talk to my attorney about my case?
Janet's absolutely correct. If your friend goes in with you, there is no attorney-client privilege.
Tom Weiss
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