NALA Certified Paralegal Practice Exam

Thomas has violated the ethical rule(s) regarding confidentiality by leaving sensitive documents exposed. Which rules did he not breach?

1. Competence

2. An express authorization to disclose confidential client information

3. Confidentiality

4. Discretion

The correct answer is: An express authorization to disclose confidential client information

The correct answer indicates that Thomas did breach the rules concerning confidentiality because he left sensitive documents exposed, which compromises the confidentiality of client information. However, it highlights that he did not breach the rule regarding express authorization to disclose confidential client information. This is because there was no indication in the scenario that he had received such authorization from the client; therefore, this specific rule would not apply in this situation. In this context, the competence rule pertains to a legal professional's duty to be adequately prepared and knowledgeable in their work. While leaving documents exposed may suggest a lack of care, it does not directly pertain to competency. Therefore, it is accurate that he did not breach that rule either. Overall, the correct answer reflects that while Thomas did violate rules related to confidentiality and possibly competence through negligence, he did not breach the rule regarding express authorization, as the scenario does not provide any evidence of such authorization. Thus, the emphasis here is on what Thomas did not do in relation to the ethical requirements surrounding client confidentiality.