When drafting audit protocols for an internal investigation, why is it important to have an attorney review the document?

Having an attorney review the audit protocols for an internal investigation is essential primarily to establish attorney-client privilege. This legal concept ensures that communications between the attorney and the client remain confidential, protecting the discussions and findings from being disclosed during potential litigation or other inquiries. By involving an attorney in the review process, organizations can freely communicate about sensitive issues without the risk of those communications being used against them.

This privilege is particularly important in compliance-related contexts where adherence to regulations and avoidance of legal repercussions are crucial. The attorney's review can help to align the protocols with legal standards and ensure that any findings from the investigation maintain their confidentiality, thereby safeguarding the integrity of the investigation as well.

While accuracy, time efficiency, and avoiding redundancy are significant considerations in drafting audit protocols, the primary purpose of having an attorney involved focuses on protecting the legal interests of the organization, which is fundamentally linked to attorney-client privilege.