When a lawyer leaves a firm, what information prevents the firm from representing a new client adverse to a former client?

The correct answer is focused on the principles of attorney-client confidentiality, which are crucial in maintaining the trust necessary for the attorney-client relationship. When a lawyer leaves a firm, the firm is still bound by confidentiality obligations. This means that any information obtained from a former client that is protected under the confidentiality rules is relevant when determining whether the firm can represent a new client in a matter that is adverse to that former client.

Confidential information includes not only privileged communications but also any information relating to the representation of the former client that is material to the current matter. This obligation is designed to prevent conflicts of interest and to protect the integrity of client information. Confidentiality is a fundamental aspect of the legal profession, ensuring that clients can provide complete and honest information to their attorneys without fear that it will be disclosed to others.

Other options do not fully capture the breadth of the confidentiality obligation. Personal information related to a previous case may not encompass all protected information. Information gained during negotiations may not be relevant unless it meets the criteria of confidentiality and materiality. Publicly available information does not protect the firm's obligations, as the essence of the lawyer-client relationship is about the protection of specific confidential details. Therefore, it's the information that is protected under the confidentiality rules and material