When faced with a subpoena regarding a student's case, what should a school counselor do first?

When faced with a subpoena regarding a student's case, the most appropriate action for a school counselor is to consult the school system's attorney for guidance. This step is crucial because attorneys can provide legal clarification on the counselor's obligations and the nuances of confidentiality and privilege concerning student information.

School counselors are legally and ethically bound to protect student privacy, and a subpoena does not automatically mean that they should disclose information. The attorney can help determine whether the subpoena is valid, if the information can be disclosed, and under what circumstances, if any, the counselor can release information without violating legal or ethical guidelines.

Additionally, the attorney can assist in formulating a proper response to the subpoena, ensuring that the counselor adheres to both legal standards and the ethical duty to protect student confidentiality. Contacting the student’s family may seem like a supportive action, but it may not be appropriate without understanding the legal implications first. Disclosing information without proper legal guidance can have serious consequences. Ignoring the subpoena could lead to legal repercussions for the counselor and the school. Thus, consulting the school system's attorney is the soundest first step.