I am reporting them to the bar. They mandating my medical records without a proper intake and…read moreWITHOUT RETAINER. When I wouldn't blindly hand over my medical records without them offering a retainer, and encouraged A PROPER INTAKE, I was rejected as a client.
Re: Ethics Concern Regarding Pre-Retainer Demand for Medical Records
Rieders Travis Law Firm (Rieders, Travis, Dohrmann, Mowery, Humphrey & Waters)
Date of Incident: January 16, 2026
Dear Disciplinary Counsel,
I am writing to report a concern regarding the intake practices of a Pennsylvania law firm, Rieders Travis Law Firm (Rieders, Travis, Dohrmann, Mowery, Humphrey & Waters) arising from my interaction with the firm, especially Cliff Rieders, crieders@riederstravis.com
on January 16, 2026.
I contacted the firm seeking legal representation. During the intake process, the firm required that I provide my medical records as a condition of representation. At the time of this request, no retainer agreement, engagement letter, or written confidentiality or scope-of-representation terms had been provided or executed.
I expressed concern about releasing sensitive medical records without a retainer or formal engagement in place and asked whether representation could be confirmed, or whether limited or alternative information could be provided for screening purposes. Following my refusal to release medical records without engagement terms, the firm declined to represent me.
I understand that attorneys may request information to evaluate potential matters. However, I am concerned that mandating disclosure of full medical records prior to the formation of an attorney-client relationship, and conditioning representation on such disclosure, may exceed what is reasonably necessary for an initial consultation and may expose prospective clients to unnecessary confidentiality and privacy risks.
I am submitting this letter for review as a potential issue under the Pennsylvania Rules of Professional Conduct, including but not limited to Rule 1.18 (Duties to Prospective Clients) and related confidentiality obligations.
I am not seeking damages or relief, but respectfully request that the Disciplinary Board review whether this intake practice complies with applicable ethical standards.
I am available to provide documentation or additional information if requested.
