We’re excited about a new law office product that promises to assist with the delicate issue of coffee shop ethics, otherwise known as having private and confidential client conversations in public places. PrivEsquire, the newest entry in a growing product line known as the “privy tent,” promises to revolutionize attorney-client communications in bars, courthouse hallways, restroom stalls, taxis, and airplanes.
Here’s how it works. Let’s say you are in a coffee shop meeting with a client and you realize the person next to you is listening in on the conversation. Sure, the person is a fellow lawyer and former classmate. You would think Rule 1.6 does not apply to such a situation. But it does. With the privy tent, however, you and your client can enclose yourself within seconds in a semi-soundproof beautifully designed canopy, continuing your conversation and leaving interlopers not only behind but also quite jealous of your cozy privacy.
I tested the PrivEsquire Refuge (pictured), which comes in a nice little stuff-sack and expands instantly after pulling an easy-release cable. Moreover, it can be co-branded for no extra charge. If absolute privacy is a must, you may want to consider upgrading to the PrivEsquire Sanctum or the PrivEsquire Snuggery. Both provide near silence within eight inches and come with cupholders, a nice feature for the cofficing attorney. The Snuggery, however, has been field tested to withstand most gale force winds, handy when you are meeting with a client during a hurricane and still need that extra assurance of confidentiality.
The new privy tent is a welcome addition to the law office product market. There are cheaper alternatives out there, such as the ConvoPoncho, but none offer the advantages of instant deployment, roomy interior, and co-branding. Highly recommended.
