Opinion ID: 1929169
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 5

Heading: Reliance on Advice of Private Attorney

Text: Finally, Gabrilson contends that Flynn cannot escape personal liability for a violation of chapter 22 because he failed to reasonably rely on the advice of an attorney authorized by statute. See Iowa Code § 22.10(3)(b)(3)(c). She claims that Flynn, as custodian of the records, improperly relied on private counsel and asserts that the county attorney is the only proper counsel from whom to seek advice for the school district. Gabrilson argues that if it is determined Flynn violated chapter 22 by failing to release the assessment, he should be liable for the statutory fine and plaintiffs attorney fees. But since we hold that the documents in question were confidential under section 22.7 as a matter of law, the plaintiff is neither entitled to attorney's fees nor is the custodian personally liable for failure to disclose them. This question is moot. AFFIRMED IN PART AND REVERSED IN PART.