This protection extends to any information exchanged during these privileged communications, encompassing not only verbal discussions but also written correspondence, emails, text messages, and other forms of communication. The privilege belongs to the client, meaning they have the authority to waive or invoke it.
Rule 3-100, which restates Business and Professions Code section 6068, subdivision (e)(2), reflects a balancing between the interests of preserving client confidentiality and of preventing a criminal act that a member reasonably believes is likely to result in death or substantial bodily harm to an individual.
Evidence Code 954 Explained Your attorney is required by law to refuse to divulge the contents of client communications if anyone asks them to, citing "attorney-client privilege:" You have the right to forbid your attorney (along with any relevant third parties) from disclosing information designated as confidential.
Lawyer-client relationship of trust and prevents a lawyer from revealing the client's information even when not subjected to such compulsion. Thus, a lawyer may not reveal such information except with the informed consent of the client or as authorized or required by the State Bar Act, these rules, or other law.
California Code, Evidence Code - EVID § 950. As used in this article, “lawyer” means a person authorized, or reasonably believed by the client to be authorized, to practice law in any state or nation. Read this complete California Code, Evidence Code - EVID § 950 on Westlaw.
An exception is to further a crime or fraud. Suppose your conversation with an attorney includes a plan to commit a crime or fraud. In that case, the attorney-client privilege doesn't apply. Also, there is imminent death or harm.
The attorney-client privilege is a legal doctrine that protects the confidentiality of communications between attorneys and their clients. With certain limited exceptions, courts cannot require a party to disclose communications that are protected by the attorney-client privilege.