The Academy’s general counsel and attorneys are available to provide legal advice to committee chairpersons, and committee chairpersons are encouraged to consult the Legal Department whenever issues arise that may have legal ramifications.  In some instances, outside counsel may also be retained. However, only the president and the executive director have authority to retain outside counsel on the Academy’s behalf.  When working on behalf of the Academy, members may receive from the Legal Department communications marked “Privileged and Confidential—Attorney-Client Privileged.” These communications contain confidential legal advice to assist in work on the Academy’s behalf and such communications are exempt from discovery in litigation so long as they remain confidential. However, if these communications are shared with outside parties, the privilege is waived and the communications, as well as the issues discussed therein, may become susceptible to discovery. Please consult the general counsel before sharing privileged communications with third parties.