Attorney-Client Privilege: What Executives Need to Know During Investigations
In high-stakes investigations, what you say — and who you say it to — can shape your legal future. Many executives mistakenly believe their conversations with company lawyers are protected by attorney-client privilege. They’re not. At LibertyBell Law Group, we help executives safeguard confidential communications and avoid unintentional legal exposure.
What Is Attorney-Client Privilege?
Attorney-client privilege protects communications between a client and their legal counsel from being disclosed in investigations, lawsuits, or trials. However, this protection has strict rules — and corporate executives often fall outside them without realizing it.
Company Lawyers Don’t Represent You
- In-house or external company counsel represent the organization, not the individual executive
- Anything you share with company counsel can be disclosed to the board, internal investigators, or even federal authorities
- Privilege in corporate settings is controlled by the company — and can be waived without your consent
Common Mistakes Executives Make
- Assuming conversations with company counsel are protected
- Sharing personal legal concerns via work email or platforms
- Speaking openly in joint interviews or internal reviews
- Failing to retain independent counsel early in the investigation
What Counts as Privileged — and What Doesn’t
- Privileged: Confidential communications between you and your personal attorney for legal advice
- Not Privileged: Conversations with company lawyers about business matters, compliance, or company policy
- Not Privileged: Emails sent from company devices or using company accounts
- Not Privileged: Communications made in group settings without legal confidentiality
How LibertyBell Law Group Protects Executive Communications
- Establishes independent attorney-client relationship with executive clients
- Secures confidential channels of communication
- Advises what can be discussed with internal counsel vs what must stay private
- Prepares privilege logs to protect documents during investigations
- Challenges improper disclosure of private executive communications
Case Example: Communications Protected During Federal Probe
A COO under federal investigation was questioned by internal counsel. LibertyBell Law Group intervened, limited further contact, and protected private communications. As a result, no statements made during internal interviews were used by prosecutors — and charges were avoided.
Signs Your Privilege May Be at Risk
- You’re being asked to attend joint interviews with no private attorney
- Your emails or messages are flagged for internal review
- Company lawyers ask leading or unclear questions during an investigation
- You’ve been told the company is “cooperating with authorities”
Free Privilege Protection Consultation for Executives
If you’re facing an investigation, internal review, or legal concern — protect your rights before speaking. LibertyBell Law Group will review your situation, secure privileged communication, and develop a legal strategy that keeps you shielded from day one.
Conclusion: You Need a Lawyer — But Not the Company’s
Attorney-client privilege is a powerful shield — but only if you control it. LibertyBell Law Group ensures executive clients retain independent protection, avoid missteps, and survive investigations with their privacy, career, and future intact.