When is it permissible to disclose client information without consent?

Disclosing client information without consent is permissible when required by law. This is grounded in legal and ethical standards that mandate compliance with statutory obligations. In situations where a court orders disclosure or where there are specific legal requirements (such as reporting certain criminal activities or compliance with regulatory bodies), the professional is obligated to share information, even if it goes against the usual practice of maintaining confidentiality.

This aspect of client confidentiality is essential to maintain the integrity of the legal and professional systems. Ethical guidelines explicitly recognize that while confidentiality is paramount, the need to comply with legal mandates takes precedence. In these circumstances, practitioners must ensure that disclosures are limited to what is legally required, respecting client privacy as much as possible while still adhering to the law.

Other options do not align with the principles of client confidentiality. Attracting more clients or benefiting the firm does not warrant breaching confidentiality, as it violates the trust placed in the professional-client relationship. Similarly, sharing information for competitive advantage is unethical and undermines the foundational principles of client privacy and professional integrity. Thus, the only correct scenario for disclosing client information without consent is when it is mandated by law.