How should social workers act when ordered to disclose confidential information in court?

When social workers are ordered to disclose confidential information in court, it is crucial for them to carefully navigate the situation while upholding their ethical responsibilities. By requesting withdrawal or limiting the order, they maintain a commitment to client confidentiality, which is a fundamental principle in the NASW Code of Ethics. This approach aligns with the ethical obligation to protect clients' privacy and sensitive information.

Social workers are encouraged to make efforts to negotiate the terms of the disclosure in a way that minimizes harm to the client. They may advocate for only essential information to be disclosed or seek to clarify the nature of the order to ensure that it does not require more information than necessary. This aligns with the ethical responsibility to act in the best interest of the clients and to seek to protect their rights whenever possible.

In contrast, complying without hesitation or providing all requested information could undermine the trust between the social worker and the client, and it could have negative repercussions for the client’s well-being. Informing the client of the order immediately, while important in maintaining transparency and trust, is not a substitute for taking action to protect their confidentiality. Thus, the best approach emphasizes advocating for the least intrusive solution possible, which underscores the importance of handling confidential information with care and respect.