What is attorney-client privilege?

Attorney-client privilege is a law that protects communications between a lawyer and client from being disclosed to anyone else, unless permission is granted by the client. This privilege gives legal clients the freedom to discuss their cases openly and honestly with their attorneys without fear of the information being shared with anyone else. The attorney-client privilege applies to most private communications between the lawyer and client, as well as any other form of legal advice or assistance provided. This includes emails, legal documents, in-person conversations, and phone calls. In Massachusetts, the attorney-client privilege is found in Rule 1.6 of the Massachusetts Rules of Professional Conduct. In order for the attorney-client privilege to apply, the communication must have been intended for legal advice. That means that conversations between a lawyer and their client that are not related to legal advice or assistance are not protected by the privilege. Additionally, the conversation must be between the attorney and client only, not with any third parties. The attorney-client privilege is extremely important in Massachusetts as it allows legal clients to be open and honest when discussing their cases with their attorneys. Without the attorney-client privilege, legal clients may be reluctant to disclose important information which could compromise their case. It is important that legal clients in Massachusetts understand and respect the attorney-client privilege so their rights are fully protected.

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What is attorney-client privilege?

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