It is the policy and practice of Defense Service Office (DSO) that the confidentiality of all client information and related matters is protected in every possible manner and at all times. Individuals who seek legal services from DSO do so under an attorney-client relationship that is limited in duration and scope to specific and discreet legal matters. Our professional and ethical obligations require us to ensure confidentiality is protected. All personnel assigned to DSO fall under this confidentiality requirement and may NOT discuss any matters outside of the office, including the names of prospective, actual or former clients, specific legal matters that an individual is seeking assistance for, and any specific matter or outcome that may occur in an individual case, unless authorized to do so with the client's permission or otherwise authorized under the law.

I understand this means that while I am receiving legal defense services via remote means (i.e., telephonically, Defense Connect Online (DCO), e-mail, or other means not conducted face-to-face in a DSO office), the above confidentiality also applies. I further understand that the use of technology to communicate with DSO personnel carries an inherent risk of third party interception. Although DSO will take all reasonable measures necessary to ensure privacy in remote attorney-client communications, DSO cannot guarantee privacy as remote communications rely upon providers outside of the Department of Defense (i.e., cell phone signals/providers, NMCI or commercial internet provider, or any other electronic medium).

I also understand if any unauthorized or nonessential third party is present or can overhear any portion of the conversation, confidentiality and the applicability of the attorney-client privilege may be compromised. In other words, parties outside of DSO are not bound by ethical rules to maintain the confidence of the communication and could potentially testify regarding what they have intercepted. This includes Region Legal Service Office (RLSO) personnel working adjacent to DSO remote offices.

By signing below, I acknowledge that I understand this disclosure and have had the opportunity to discuss this with a DSO attorney before commencing any confidential discussions. I consent to receive legal advice by remote, electronic means and that DSO will take all precautions within its control to ensure the confidentiality of our communications.

1. The purpose of this form is to inform you of the limited scope of representation that the attorney is authorized to provide you during this meeting.
2. The nature of this meeting is informational. Anything you tell the attorney during this meeting will be confidential, meaning that the attorney may not disclose that information without your permission or as otherwise required by law.
3. This meeting does not form an ongoing attorney-client relationship. In meeting with you today, the attorney is authorized to advise you on the matter for which you seek assistance, including:
   1. Reviewing any documentation that you may have and analyzing the facts and law related to your situation. The attorney will answer your questions and provide advice on possible outcomes and options;
   2. Assisting you in understanding any forms or other documents that the government may have provided you with and explaining those forms and their attendant consequences;
   3. Assisting you to understand relevant law, remedies, or avenues of redress.
4. The attorney is not authorized to take steps beyond advising you on the matter you are here for today.
5. This letter is meant to specifically limit the scope of the attorney’s representation of you to the current situation giving rise to this appointment. While all of your communications with the attorney concerning this matter will remain confidential, the formation of any attorney-client relationship will extend only so far as the current PERSREP situation and will not extend to any future administrative or criminal proceeding without the necessary authorization.

I acknowledge the limited scope of the advice which I will receive in this counseling session.