Monday, August 24, 2009

Everyone seems to be recording everything in this new modern world. Can I record someone's conversation without their knowledge?

In California (many other states are more liberal), you should always get the consent of all parties before recording any conversation that a reasonable person would find "private" or "confidential." Not to do so, exposes you to possible criminal prosecution, or more probably, a lawsuit for damages.

Conversations that occur in a "public" or in an area where the parties do not have any "expectation of privacy" are not covered by the unanimous consent requirement. You may record a conversation amongst people in a public place, such as a street or park, even without consent. For example, a California court has upheld a television network's right to use a hidden camera to videotape a conversation that took place during a business lunch on an outdoor patio of a public restaurant.

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: The above material does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied on. It does not create an attorney-client relationship. Each locality has differing laws. A legal matter cannot be satisfactorily resolved without a comprehensive review and analysis of all the unique facts and laws at issue by an able attorney. Your matter may result in a loss of rights if you do not timely retain such an attorney. For more information, please visit: http://www.BealBusinessLaw.com