> I have a novel idea for a new business. (A number of
> > people say I'm quite twisted.)
> >
> > I am going to need lots of professional help.. with
> > getting it set up, of course.
> >
> > While I don't mind paying for the help, the only barrier
> > to entry for this business will be knowledge and I don't
> > want my idea being sold or used by my professional advisor
> > _before_ I get my company started.
> >
> > What type of non-disclosure contract would be acceptable
> > to a 'reasonable' accounting or legal professional? What
> > sort of things should it cover? How much 'extra' should I
> > be willing to pay to have them sign that obligating
> > document?
>
> I won't speak of other professionals, but CPAs are bound by
> professional ethics and the accountancy laws of most (if not
> all) states to a standard of non-disclosure of any client
> information. Thus, for example, if a bank loan officer calls
> to get information about "someone" who is applying for a
> loan, I will make sure that I have obtained permission from
> my client before I will even acknowledge that the "someone"
> IS my client.
>
> CPAs and other tax preparers (and arguably also attorneys)
> are also bound by the new privacy act requirements (although
> this applies only to individuals and not to companies). Ask
> for a copy of the privacy act notice and read it carefully.
> It may answer your NDA needs at no cost to you.
>
> If a potential client asked me to sign a NDA, I would want
> to run it by MY attorney before signing it. Thus, I would
> ask for several hundred Georges up front for my time and the
> attorney fee. I also would wonder if this person is worth
> having as a client in the first place, since trust between a
> CPA and client is essential to a good working relationship.
>
> Tom
>
> --Solving your tax and business problems with
> Professional Service...Personal Attention
> Email: snipped-for-privacy@aol.com
> Web:
formatting link
>
> >
> >
> >
> >
That's ironic, because I wouldn't hire anyone-- tax preparer or otherwise-- who'd give pause about signing a NDA if asked. And if someone who declined tried to feed me a line like that about having to trust each other, I'd run. Fast.