Email Is Discoverable in Litigation Including legal counsel in board communications does not protect emails from discovery. A communication is privileged only if the dominant purpose of the communication is to further the objectives of the attorney-client relationship. (2022 Ranch LLC v. Superior Court (2003) 113 Cal.
To be safe put "Attorney-Client Communication", "Privileged and Confidential" or "Attorney Work Product" in the subject of the e-mail, or on privileged documents.
No matter how the attorney-client privilege is articulated, there are four basic elements necessary to establish its existence: (1) a communication; (2) made between privileged persons; (3) in confidence; (4) for the purpose of seeking, obtaining or providing legal assistance to the client.
Rule 3: Label the top of the communication or the subject line of an email: "Privileged and Confidential: Attorney-Client Privileged Communication." This notice should be prominent and easily viewable as soon as someone receives the communication.
A lawyer serving as an outside director has the same duty of care as any other outside director, and the same exposure to liability. The lawyer's skill and knowledge must be brought into the boardroom in the interest of the corporation.
Start by including the words "privileged," "confidential," or "attorney-client communication" in your email subject line. Make sure the body of your email is clear, specific, and only discusses legal issues. Always ask your attorney before sharing information with others, including the contents of your emails.
Board minutes often contain information that is subject to the attorney-client privilege and that directors may prefer to keep confidential. However, most jurisdictions allow stockholders to inspect corporate books and records, including board minutes.
Start by including the words "privileged," "confidential," or "attorney-client communication" in your email subject line. Make sure the body of your email is clear, specific, and only discusses legal issues. Always ask your attorney before sharing information with others, including the contents of your emails.
There are two major exceptions to the lawyer-client privilege under the California Evidence Code, as discussed below. 2.1. Crime or fraud. 2.2. Preventing death or substantial physical harm.
 
                     
                     
                    