What is attorney-client privilege?

Attorney-client privilege is a legal concept that protects communications between a lawyer and their client from being used against the client in court. It means that a lawyer cannot be asked to testify or provide evidence in court about confidential communications made between the lawyer and the client. This privilege exists in order to encourage clients to speak honestly and openly with their lawyers, so that their lawyers can effectively advise and represent them in court. In Virginia, attorney-client privilege is protected under the both the Code of Professional Responsibility and the Rules of Professional Conduct. These rules state that attorneys must not reveal confidential information, including any information given to them by a client, without the express permission of the client. Furthermore, the Virginia Supreme Court has held that attorney-client privilege will be extended to attorney-client communications conducted over the phone and via email. As such, attorney-client privilege provides an important protection for individuals seeking legal counsel in Virginia.

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