What does the "lawyer's confidentiality duty" entail in Ohio?

The confidentiality duty in Ohio, as in many jurisdictions, fundamentally protects the privacy of client communications. This duty prohibits attorneys from disclosing any information related to the representation of a client unless the client provides informed consent for that information to be shared. This rule is rooted in the principle that clients must be able to speak freely and openly with their attorneys, fostering a trusting attorney-client relationship.

This confidentiality extends beyond just the explicit information provided; it also covers any information that can be inferred from the representation. The rationale is that clients should feel secure in sharing sensitive information, which is crucial for effective legal representation. This duty persists even after the attorney-client relationship has ended, ensuring that client information remains protected indefinitely unless there is a valid exception, such as the client permitting disclosure.

This understanding of confidentiality does not allow for the free sharing of client information with the court or the public, nor does it limit confidentiality to only criminal cases; it encompasses all types of legal representation.