Secure Sharing of Legal PDFs from Google Docs
Secure sharing of legal PDFs from Google Docs involves choosing the right distribution channel, encrypting the document, and separating the password from the file. This guide covers the practical steps for different distribution scenarios in legal practice.
Email distribution
Attach the encrypted PDF to the email. Do not include the password in the same email. Follow up with the password by phone call or text message. Reference in the email that a password is required, so the recipient knows to expect a separate communication.
Client portal distribution
Many firms use client portals for document delivery. If the portal encrypts documents in transit and at rest, an additional PDF password may be redundant. Check the portal's security documentation. If the portal is not encrypted end-to-end, apply PDF encryption before uploading.
Secure messaging alternatives
Encrypted messaging apps like Signal support file attachments. For highly sensitive documents, sending the PDF through Signal combined with the password in a separate Signal message provides a higher level of security than email. This approach is practical for smaller firms and solo practitioners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I use email for distributing privileged documents?
Email is standard in legal practice. With AES-256 encryption on the PDF and the password shared separately, it is generally considered acceptable. Highly sensitive matters may warrant a client portal or encrypted messaging for additional confidence.
Related article
Convert legal contract from Google Docs to PDF →Ready to Try It?
Install the free Chrome extension and start converting your Google Docs to PDF in one click.
Install Free Extension