Dear Amy: Last night, I took my mother out for what I thought would be a pleasant, relaxing dinner. Was I wrong!
In the booth in back of us, a lawyer and his client loudly discussed a child custody/visitation case for an hour and a half. Not only did we hear every detail, but we also heard every cellphone call he made.
Wasn’t this a case of violating client confidentiality?
And finally, other than requesting a change of seating, what could I have done differently? — Fed up on Long Island
Dear Fed Up: This is a case of violating client confidentiality.
You could have turned and said to this booth neighbor, “It sounds like you are having an important business discussion and I want you to know that we can hear everything you’re discussing over here.”
You shouldn’t have to move. If this lawyer wants to violate his client’s privacy and have you know the details of his business, then he’ll keep doing what he’s doing.
Dear Amy: I have a friend living in Europe. Many years ago we were close friends, and I invited her to visit my husband and me in America.
At that time she declined my invitation, telling me she doesn’t speak English and would be afraid to make such a long trip by herself.
We lost touch but recently reconnected. I learned that her husband passed away.
Last month I suddenly received a letter from her asking me if the old invitation is still valid. She would like to bring her 16-year-old grandson.
I would like to see her, but my original invitation is not extended to any of her family members. My husband and I do not have children. My husband is 77, I am 68, and my friend is 72.
The teenager would be not a good fit in our company.
Please, help me to decline my friend’s request politely. — Friend in Oklahoma
Dear Friend: Tell your friend the truth, and tell her soon.
Just say to her, “I’m so sorry, but we just can’t handle this visit. My husband and I have slowed down a bit and we don’t feel comfortable hosting a young person for an extended visit. I’m really sorry.”
Write to askamy@tribune.com or Ask Amy, Chicago Tribune, TT500, 435 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611.
