attorney-client privilege

Definition

Attorney-client privilege is a legal protection that keeps your private communications with your lawyer confidential, meaning no one can force either of you to reveal what was said. This protection exists so you can speak completely honestly with your attorney without worrying that your words will later be used against you in court.

Example

If you tell your business lawyer that you accidentally violated a contract and ask for advice on how to handle it, that conversation is protected and cannot be demanded as evidence in a lawsuit.

Watch Out

This protection can be lost if you discuss your legal conversations with outside parties, like sharing what your lawyer told you with a business partner or in a group email thread.

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This definition is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a licensed attorney for legal guidance.