To be safe put "Attorney-Client Communication", "Privileged and Confidential" or "Attorney Work Product" in the subject of the e-mail, or on privileged documents.
The attorney-client privilege applies to communications “to whom disclosure is reasonably necessary for the transmission of the information or the accomplishment of the purpose for which the lawyer is consulted.” Cal. Evid. Code § 952. This includes communications to an expert consultant.
There are two major exceptions to the lawyer-client privilege under the California Evidence Code, as discussed below. 2.1. Crime or fraud. 2.2. Preventing death or substantial physical harm.
This privilege is codified in California law via Evidence Code 954, which gives your attorney the right to refuse to divulge the contents of your conversation, gives you the right to require confidentiality from your attorney, and with few exceptions, makes any breach of that confidence inadmissible in court.
Start by including the words "privileged," "confidential," or "attorney-client communication" in your email subject line. Make sure the body of your email is clear, specific, and only discusses legal issues. Always ask your attorney before sharing information with others, including the contents of your emails.
(c) The person who was the lawyer at the time of the confidential communication, but such person may not claim the privilege if there is no holder of the privilege in existence or if he is otherwise instructed by a person authorized to permit disclosure.
How Long Does Attorney-Client Privilege Last in California? In California, privileged information between attorneys and their clients remains confidential after the case ends. An attorney may never share protected information without a client's consent. Even if a client dies, this information may not be disclosed.