Which statement best describes the attorney-client privilege in effect?

• A. Communications for seeking legal advice are protected from disclosure
• B. All communications with lawyers are public
• C. It applies to communications with non-attorneys
• D. It applies only to contract negotiations

Answer: (A)

Attorney-client privilege protects confidential communications between a client and their attorney made for the purpose of seeking, obtaining, or receiving legal advice. This ensures the client can speak openly to get competent guidance without fear of disclosure in court or to others. The protection rests on the communication itself and the intent to keep it confidential as part of obtaining legal services; it applies unless the client waives the privilege or an exception applies. It isn’t a blanket rule that all interactions with lawyers are public, nor is it limited only to contract negotiations. Non-attorneys may be involved as necessary intermediaries (like paralegals) to render legal services, but the core shield is the confidential legal advice communication between client and attorney.