In what context is attorney-client privilege applicable?

Attorney-client privilege is a fundamental principle that protects communications made between a client and their attorney. This privilege is applicable in a wide range of contexts whenever a lawyer is representing a client in any legal matter, not limited to criminal cases or specific types of legal proceedings. The essence of this privilege is to encourage open and honest communication between the client and the attorney, allowing clients to seek legal advice without fear that their disclosures will be used against them.

It spans various legal contexts, including civil cases, contractual negotiations, and any other legal matters where client representation occurs. Situations outside formal trials, such as negotiations or pre-litigation discussions, also fall under this privilege. Thus, the broad applicability of attorney-client privilege ensures that clients can freely discuss their situations without concern for confidentiality breaches, enabling the attorney to provide effective representation.