Public Records Act and Legal Trends
There has been a proliferation in the State of these types of requests, and they are becoming more sophisticated. As a result, public agencies must counter the sophistication in response, and create a game plan. Now is the time to think about these broad issues and how public agencies take on the flood of information requests in this new era. Harold Freiman, Partner in Lozano Smith's Walnut Creek office, breaks down the hot topics related to the Public Records Act, and discusses the importance of established policies, very clear practices and working closely with an attorney to make sure protocols are in place when PRA requests come. Specifically, so that errors are not made, thought must be given to how text messages and emails are treated and advanced discussion should take place before your entity is taken on by a lawsuit that often follows PRA requests. (23 minutes)
Watch Individual Sections
Requests for Emails - (9:01)
Requests for Personnel Records - (5:12)
Requests Motivated by Profit - (3:55)
Accidental Release of Privileged Materials - (6:31)
Related Client News Briefs
- California Appellate Court Rules that Public Records Act Does Not Apply to Electronic Communications Sent on Personal Devices to Personal Accounts
- It's An E-World: Governing in the Electronic Age
- Public Employees May File Suit Seeking Nondisclosure of Personnel Information Pursuant to Public Records Act Requests
- Court Upholds Withholding of Public Employees' Names in the Latest California Public Records Act Case
- California Supreme Court Holds Attorney-Client Privilege Not Waived by Public Agency's Accidental Disclosure of Privileged Communications in Response to a Public Records Act Request
As the information contained herein is necessarily general, its application to a particular set of facts and circumstances may vary. For this reason, this News Brief does not constitute legal advice. We recommend that you consult with your counsel prior to acting on the information contained herein.