A supervisor asks you to withhold information from a court. What should you do?

• A. Do not withhold information; provide truthful, complete data; escalate if coerced.
• B. Withhold some information to protect colleagues.
• C. Provide only what is legally required, ignoring other data.
• D. Fabricate information to satisfy the court.

Answer: (A)

When dealing with a request to withhold information from a court, the essential principle is honesty and compliance with legal obligations. You should provide truthful, complete information as required by the court and your organization’s policies. Withholding data can amount to obstruction of justice and can bring serious legal consequences for you and the company. If someone pressures you, calmly refuse and explain that you must disclose all relevant information through the proper, lawful channels. Offer to share the information in full and, if the pressure continues, escalate to appropriate authorities such as legal counsel, compliance, or higher management. Document the request and your response, and keep careful records of what was provided. Providing only what you think is legally required or fabricating information is not acceptable; both breach ethics and law and can lead to sanctions and loss of trust. The right approach is to be transparent, follow court orders, and seek guidance if the request seems improper.