The Federal Public Defender's office is bound by the attorney‐client privilege. This privilege keeps communications between a client and his or her attorney confidential. Normally, the attorney will not share privileged information with others outside the office. The policy underlying this privilege is to encourage open and honest communication between clients and attorneys.

You should not talk to anyone about your case without first discussing the matter with your attorney. You may discuss anything concerning your case with your attorney because these matters are recognized as confidential. This confidential privilege extends only to discussions between you and your attorney and your attorney's staff. Anything you tell your family, friends, and others (such as cellmates), is NOT confidential and the court can compel those people to testify about what you said.

Under the attorney‐client privilege, our office is not allowed to discuss particulars of any client's case with their family or friends unless the client directs the attorney to do so. If a family member or friend needs court dates, court times, or assigned courtrooms, we may provide that information if authorization by the client is received in writing.