Under Rule 1.13, when may a lawyer reveal information about an organization's violation of law to prevent substantial injury to the organization?

• A. If the organization fails to address a clearly identified violation that is likely to cause substantial injury
• B. Only with written permission of all directors
• C. Only if the client specifically requests disclosure
• D. Never; confidentiality prohibits

Answer: (A)

Rule 1.13 lets a lawyer for an organization disclose information about a violation of law if doing so is necessary to prevent substantial injury to the organization. The lawyer should first raise the issue internally with appropriate officials. If the organization fails to address a clearly identified violation that is likely to cause substantial injury, the lawyer may reveal information to the extent reasonably necessary to prevent the injury. The disclosure is limited to what is reasonably necessary and is aimed at stopping the harm, and it may be made to appropriate internal or, if needed, external authorities.