White House Fights to Protect Clinton's Confidential Discussions with Counsel

Strategic Insights -

As President Clinton prepares to give testimony about his relationship with Monica Lewinsky, the White House is fighting a court ruling that could limit his ability to have private discussions with his lawyers. The administration argues that attorney-client privilege is a fundamental principle of the legal system, essential for informed decision-making. Despite this, a federal appeals court panel has ruled that the privilege does not apply in cases of criminal misconduct. The White House plans to take the case to the Supreme Court, citing concerns that a broader interpretation could affect how future presidents communicate with their attorneys.

Key Takeaways:

  • The White House is fighting a court ruling that could limit President Clinton's ability to have private discussions with his lawyers, citing attorney-client privilege.
  • The appeals court panel ruled that the privilege does not apply in cases of criminal misconduct, potentially impacting how government officials communicate with their attorneys.
  • The White House plans to take the case to the Supreme Court, hoping for a review and potential reversal of the lower court ruling.
  • Independent Counsel Kenneth Starr is investigating whether President Clinton lied about his relationship with Monica Lewinsky in a legal deposition.
  • Lewinsky, granted immunity from prosecution, may testify before the grand jury as early as this week, detailing their alleged relationship and discussions about "cover stories" to conceal it.
  • Clinton has promised to speak truthfully about his relationship with Lewinsky, but has not indicated whether he will admit to lying or acknowledge the allegations.
  • A cocktail dress allegedly containing semen that could prove a sexual relationship between Clinton and Lewinsky is being tested by the FBI for DNA.

Statistics:

  • 25: Monica Lewinsky's age.
  • 1: The number of White House officials, including Bruce Lindsey, ordered to appear before a grand jury in the Lewinsky matter.
  • 1: The number of appeals court panel judges who ruled in favor of upholding the ruling that Lindsey is not shielded by attorney-client privilege.
  • 50: The percentage of the grand jury that is expected to hear testimony from Clinton and Lewinsky.

Sources:

  • "White House willing to fight to Supreme Court to block Lindsey from testifying."

Knight Ridder/Tribune Information Services

  • "Lewinsky may testify in Clinton scandal this week."

Knight Ridder/Tribune Information Services