Confidentiality
Your call to us and the help we provide is confidential.
We understand your concerns about privacy and confidentiality.
LCL is equally sensitive about your career and reputation.
We know it is difficult to ask for help. LCL discreetly provides resources, support and information.
We Protect Your Identity and Information
LCL does not report or disclose any identifying information to the Supreme Court, the Judicial Conduct Board, the Disciplinary Board, the Board of Law Examiners or any other agency of the Supreme Court; nor do we report or disclose any identifying information to the Conference of State Trial Judges, Pennsylvania Bar Association, local bar associations or any judicial or law related organization. We do not report any identifying information to anyone without your prior consent.
You may choose to remain anonymous and still receive LCL services.
Your consultation with a healthcare provider (provided and paid for by LCL) is also confidential and protected in accordance with state and federal regulations concerning privacy and confidentiality.
Guidance from the Supreme Court
The Supreme Court Pennsylvania recognizes that judges and lawyers may become ill and need to seek specialized treatment. The Court further recognizes that fear of disclosure will prevent many from seeking help. Rule 8.3 (c) of the Rules of Professional Conduct addresses that concern by providing an exception to the duty to report: “The Rule does not require disclosure of information otherwise protected by Rule 1.6 or information gained by a lawyer or judge while participating in an approved lawyers assistance program.” Comment 7 explains: “… providing for an exception … encourages lawyers and judges to seek treatment through such a program. Conversely, without such an exception, lawyers and judges may hesitate to seek assistance from these programs, which may then result in additional harm to their professional careers and additional injury to the welfare of clients and to the public.” (emphasis added) [LCL is the Commonwealth’s approved lawyers assistance program.]
