Baltimore IT Office Restricts Access to Law Department Files Following Privilege Breach

The City of Baltimore’s Office of Information & Technology (BCIT) has taken steps to rectify a breach of attorney-client privilege within the City’s Law Department, as announced by the City on Saturday, January 24, 2026. The action was prompted by the discovery of an unauthorized account accessing confidential legal files.

The incident came to light earlier this week when a legal professional in the City’s Law Department identified an unauthorized account with access to their files. These files are protected by attorney-client and work-product privileges, which are legally mandated to ensure confidentiality. A subsequent audit of system permissions by BCIT revealed that an account linked to the Office of the Inspector General had obtained unauthorized and unrestricted access to these sensitive legal documents and communications.

In response to this discovery, BCIT was directed to revoke any accounts that had gained unapproved entry to the Law Department’s files. This measure is intended to restore the confidentiality of these communications, enabling the Law Department to fulfill its legal and ethical obligations. The Maryland Rules of Professional Conduct stipulate that lawyers must safeguard confidential and privileged communications with their clients.

The City clarified that the Office of the Inspector General did not secure authorized permission for this access, and the removal of this access will not hinder the Inspector General’s legitimate investigative work. This action underscores the City’s commitment to upholding legal protections for sensitive communications within its departments. Residents may be reassured that measures are being taken to protect privileged information, which is crucial for the effective functioning of city legal matters.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the City of Baltimore.

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