Italian Court of Cassation legal rulings

The Italian Court of Cassation has issued several rulings clarifying various aspects of legal protections and obligations.

In September 2026, the United Sections of the Court ruled that legal protections for law offices must be maintained during inspections, searches, and seizures, even if the lawyer is the subject of an investigation. The court stated these safeguards are intended to protect the “professional secrecy and privacy of their clients” rather than granting immunity to the lawyers themselves.

In October 2026, the Court provided clarifications regarding the legal consequences of silence and omissions. In insurance matters, the Court ruled that failing to disclose information, such as previous hospitalizations, can lead to reduced compensation or the total annulment of a contract depending on intent or negligence. In employment law, the Court determined that an employee’s silence regarding illegal activities in the workplace can justify dismissal, as it constitutes a breach of the “duty of loyalty” and the bond of trust required by the Civil Code.