Schectman

Steven Schectman and Law Offices of Pinnock & Schectman (Schectman) appeal from the order granting a preliminary injunction requiring them to turn over documents that were removed from Pillsbury, Madison & Sutro (PM&S).

PM&S brought an action against Schectman for specific recovery of personal property and for temporary, preliminary, and permanent injunctive relief. The complaint alleges Schectman gained possession of confidential personnel documents removed from the offices of PM&S without its consent. Schectman represents current and former PM&S employees in connection with employment law claims against PM&S. PM&S also filed applications for a writ of possession, a temporary restraining order, and an order to allow expedited discovery.

Pursuant to stipulation of the parties, the court appointed a special master to review the documents and to make a recommendation to the court as to whether they are legally protectible. The special master found none of the documents violated any attorney-client privilege or constituted work product and none was of a trade secret nature. The special master found a number of documents were intended to be confidential, specifically those…