Few Records Are Truly Private When You Are in Litigation

This segment of The Law and You addresses the importance of having an experienced trial lawyer in personal injury litigation and making sure your attorney is aware of all your records.

TRANSCRIPT

JOEL: This is Joel Block for The Law and You with Eugene attorney Don Corson. Don, one of the questions we received asked how to safeguard records in a lawsuit.

DON: This gets a little complicated, but basically, nothing is truly private when you get into litigation. Your medical and employment records, even your tax records, cell phone bills, and other personal records often have to be turned over if requested. You may even have to turn over personal journals and diaries. Even medical records protected by federal HIPPA regulations can be subpoenaed–with or without your permission. Your computer can be searched to retrieve files you had deleted. The bottom line is to make sure that your attorney is aware of all your records and knows how to find all the relevant records from the other side.

JOEL: Thanks, Don. If you have a legal question or would like to request a speaker for your group on The Law and You, visit CorsonJohnsonLaw.com. This is a public service and does not replace the advice of an attorney.

The Corson & Johnson Law Firm, an Oregon personal injury trial law firm, produced and distributed The Law and You as a public service to help families and consumers answer questions about our legal system and how it works for them. The Law and You spots were aired on KKNU, KMGE, KEUG, and KODZ.  Please note that laws may have changed since a public service spot was aired.  If you have suggestions for legal questions or topics you would like addressed, please contact us.