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I was in litigation support, namely records procurement. My comments pertain mostly to medical records & related billing records, but can also apply to employment and payroll records.
If you are a plaintiff in a law suit, be careful about signing blank authorizations, especially if they contain wording allowing a copy to be as valid as an original. Attorneys, even the one representing you, will usually ask you to sign several blank forms allowing them to gather your records. Even if you sign only authorizations that are directed to specific medical providers, be aware that those authorizations can be manipulated and altered to obtain records from other providers (don't ask me how I know this). Specifying a time period for which the authorization is valid is useful, but that can also be altered.
If you are concerned about making certain that specific records will provided only with your knowledge and consent, file a notice with your medical provider stating that your records can only be released with an authorization with your original signature. Ask, demand if necessary, that said notice be placed in your medical file.
I could ramble on, but I'd rather respond to specific questions and/or comments, if there are any.
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In a society where the individual is not free to pursue the truth...there is neither progress, stability nor security.--Edward R. Murrow
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