Which of the following is a permissible reason to disclose confidential information without client consent?

• A. All of the above
• B. To defend against charges of wrongdoing
• C. To comply with legal process
• D. In connection with civil dispute between certificant and client

Answer: (A)

Confidentiality isn’t absolute; there are defined circumstances where you may disclose information without client consent. One such circumstance is defending yourself against charges of wrongdoing—the rules allow you to disclose what’s needed to respond to disciplinary or legal accusations. Another is complying with legal process—subpoenas, court orders, or other mandatory legal requirements permit disclosure. A third is handling civil disputes between you and a client, where disclosing necessary information may be required to resolve the matter, typically under protections like relevance and any court-imposed safeguards. Because these specific, permissible situations are all recognized, the correct choice is that all of the above apply.