Ask the Experts: When an Attorney Calls

Even if you don’t provide forensic services or work with high-conflict families, chances are an attorney will contact you about a patient or client at some point in your career. These communications, no matter how benign, can be anxiety provoking, so being prepared can alleviate your stress.

Before you agree to talk to an attorney, it’s important to consider such questions as: Who does the attorney represent? Does this concern a civil, criminal, or other matter? Do you have or need the patient’s permission? Is there a subpoena? Can you charge for your time?

In this presentation, legal and risk management panelists describe different scenarios and provide guidance about how to respond in a way that protects your practice and your patients.

Possible scenarios include:

• patient death
• workers’ comp
• disability claim
• divorce
• patient suing for workplace discrimination
• patient being sued for car accident

About Ask the Experts Webinars

APA does not endorse any products or services. The content is created by the APA’s Legal and State Advocacy team and risk management experts Allied World. Email Advertising to learn more.

The information in this topical webinar series does not constitute and should not be relied upon as legal advice and should not be used as a substitute for obtaining personal legal advice and consultation prior to making decisions.

Presenter Disclaimer

Allison Funicelli and Cara Staus, two of our presenters, have a working relationship with Allied World, underwriter for the American Professional Agency. As such, Ms. Funicelli and Ms. Staus have both a financial and an intellectual interest in the webinar content. The purpose of this presentation is to provide a balanced view around what to do when an attorney calls.