You may be nervous or embarrassed to tell your lawyer certain things, but full honesty is the best way to protect yourself. When your lawyer has the full picture, they can develop a plan for potential problems, avoid surprises, and prepare you for how these issues may come up in the divorce process. Everything you say to your lawyer is confidential, so do not hold back.
Your Lawyer Can’t Help You If They Don’t Know
When you work with a family lawyer, your job is to be completely honest, even about the things you think are messy, personal, or uncomfortable. You might be tempted to leave out something that feels embarrassing, like an affair, a past addiction, or a financial mistake. But that can cause far more damage in the long run.
If something is going to come up, especially in court, in a Mediation, or in a Collaborative Divorce negotiation, your lawyer needs to be prepared. Surprises do not help anyone, especially not you.
Everything You Say to Your Lawyer Is Confidential
You might worry that sharing something sensitive will somehow backfire against you. But anything you say to your lawyer is protected by lawyer-client privilege. That means your lawyer cannot share your information with anyone, not your spouse, their lawyer, or the court, unless you give clear permission.
This safe space allows you to be honest so your lawyer can offer the best legal advice for your situation.
Even “No-Fault” Divorce Has Legal Consequences
In Canada, we have no-fault divorce, which means you do not need to prove wrongdoing like adultery to get a divorce. So, while something like having an affair might not affect the divorce itself, hiding or mismanaging disclosure of the same could affect trust and impact parenting arrangements, the negotiation process, or financial disclosure.
When you tell your lawyer about these issues early, they can explain how or if it matters in your case and help you handle it properly.
It Helps Us Protect You and to Plan Ahead
If your lawyer knows what could be used against you, they can take steps to address it. For example, maybe substance abuse is an issue. In a Collaborative Divorce case, your lawyer can make an agreement with the other lawyer that no joint meetings happen unless both parties are sober. That protects your reputation and the integrity of the process.
The goal is not to judge but rather to plan and protect you from being caught off guard.
If you are going through a divorce and need help, call Pierre Boileau today at 780‑482‑2888.
FAQs
Q1: What if I am not sure whether something is important to share?
When in doubt, tell your lawyer. They will let you know whether it matters legally, and if it does, you have saved both of you time and stress.
Q2: Will my spouse find out what I tell my lawyer?
No. Everything you share with your lawyer is confidential unless you specifically agree to release it.
Q3: What happens if I hide something and it comes up later?
It could damage your credibility, disrupt negotiations, or hurt your case. Full disclosure helps you stay in control.
Pierre Boileau
Over almost 35 years of practice Pierre Boileau, K.C. has gained experience as a Mediator, Collaborative Family Lawyer, Litigator and now as an Arbitrator. Pierre’s extensive experience has shown him that client satisfaction is maximized when clients have control over their own future. This can best be achieved through interest based negotiation. Only as a last resort, should litigation be considered. When necessary, Pierre relies upon his vast court experience and training.
Pierre remains committed to continuing to practice at a high level with particular care, interest,and sound judgment. He doesn’t shy away from particularly challenging cases. Pierre’s greatest reward comes from the satisfaction of assisting clients through one of the most challenging experiences of their lives.