Mississippi Jurisprudence and Ethics Practice Exam

A lawyer is allowed to reveal client information only with the informed consent of the client. This principle is rooted in the attorney-client privilege, which is designed to encourage open communication between clients and their attorneys. The confidentiality of client information is a fundamental aspect of the legal profession, serving to protect clients' interests and promote trust in legal representation.

Informed consent means that the client has been fully advised of the implications of sharing their information and has voluntarily agreed to its disclosure. This ensures that clients are aware of how their information may be used and the potential consequences of that disclosure. It empowers clients to make knowledgeable decisions about their own legal matters.

The other options fail to recognize the importance of client consent and the ethical obligations that govern attorney conduct. For example, revealing client information merely to enhance a lawyer's reputation, sharing details with family members without permission, or disclosing information at the lawyer's discretion undermine the principles of confidentiality and may violate ethical rules, potentially harming the client’s interests and the integrity of the legal profession.