Attorney-client privilege protects the confidentiality of conversations between lawyers and their clients. However, due to misinformation in the media and general public ignorance, there are many myths surrounding the concept. Today, we’ll debunk some of the most common myths about attorney-client privilege, clarifying what it does and doesn’t cover, so you can better understand your rights and the limits of legal confidentiality.
Myth 1: Attorney-Client Privilege Covers Every Conversation With a Lawyer
Many people believe that once they start talking to a lawyer, everything they say is protected by attorney-client privilege. However, the truth is more nuanced. For a communication to be protected, it must be made in confidence, for the purpose of seeking legal advice or services, and not for the purpose of committing a crime or fraud. Casual conversations or discussions outside the scope of legal counsel do not enjoy this privilege.
Myth 2: Attorney-Client Privilege Lasts Indefinitely
Another common misunderstanding is that attorney-client privilege lasts forever, no matter what. It’s true that the privilege can extend beyond the end of a legal representation or even the death of the client. However, it can be waived if the client or their estate agrees to disclose privileged information. Furthermore, under certain conditions, a court can order the disclosure of privileged communications.
Myth 3: All Documents Passed to Your Lawyer Are Privileged
Some people assume that handing a document to their lawyer automatically makes it privileged. In reality, attorney-client privilege only applies to communications between the client and attorney. If a document was not created for the purpose of legal advice and is accessible to parties outside the attorney-client relationship, it might not be protected. Original documents and materials that existed before the legal relationship are not shielded by privilege simply by being in a lawyer’s possession.
Myth 4: The Privilege Is Absolute and Unbreakable
While attorney-client privilege offers significant protection, it’s not absolute. Exceptions to the rule include the crime-fraud exception, where communications made with the intention of committing a crime or fraud don’t receive protection. Courts may also breach the privilege in rare and extreme cases, proving the privilege has its limits.
Myth 5: Attorney-Client Privilege and Confidentiality Are the Same
Finally, it’s important to distinguish between attorney-client privilege and the duty of confidentiality. While they overlap, they are not the same. The duty of confidentiality covers all information relating to the attorney-client relationship, while attorney-client privilege specifically protects legal advice communications from being disclosed without the client’s consent. Understanding this nuance in what attorney-client privilege really means is key to ensuring you fully understand your rights.
Understanding the common myths about attorney-client privilege is crucial for anyone engaged in legal matters. This privilege is a foundational component of the legal system, designed to encourage open and honest communication between clients and their attorneys. By debunking these myths, clients can better understand the extent and limits of their protections, ensuring more effective legal counsel.
