NDA for sensitive documents sent prior to first meeting?

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NDA for sensitive documents sent prior to first meeting?

I am introducing a new product and have a (free) consultation meeting scheduled with an attorney. We will discuss the product and cover a range of topics, from legal issues to the product in general. This lawyer is also an entrepreneur in my field and sometimes serves as an advisor and mentor on projects that are similar to mine. 1-2 weeks before we are scheduled to meet, I will email or mail the lawyer documents related to the product (market research, illustrations, business model, etc.). Should I ask the lawyer to sign an NDA? If not, is there anything I should do in lieu of the NDA?

Asked on June 8, 2009 under Business Law, Florida

Answers:

M.H., Member, California Bar / M.H., Member, California Bar

Answered 14 years ago | Contributor

I see no downside to the NDA. I've had comparable meetings and I too had a fear that the people with whom I was meeting would take offense with the request. They didn't blink, being true business people. I think given the nature of the relationship you've described (mentor/mentee) and the fact that your mentor is an attorney (a licensed professional), he/she will understand and respect your decision to protect the data.

I offer this information in an effort to allow you to better understand some general legal principals that may apply to your fact scenario. This is not intended to substitute for a detailed consultation with an attorney admitted to practice before the bar of your state. Laws differ from state to state. Thus, the information above does not constitute legal advice. Further, ethical rules prohibit an attorney such as myself from "practicing" law in any state but the state in which I am admitted.


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