Which term describes the rule that prohibits lawyers from testifying about confidential client information?

Which term describes the rule that prohibits lawyers from testifying about confidential client information?

• A. Confidentiality
• B. Unauthorized practice of law
• C. Conflict of interest
• D. Attorney-client privilege

Answer: (D)

Attorney-client privilege is the rule that protects communications between a lawyer and a client from disclosure, including preventing the attorney from testifying about those confidential conversations. This protection exists to encourage clients to speak openly and honestly so the lawyer can provide effective legal advice. It’s more specific than general confidentiality, which is a broader duty to keep client information private; privilege is a legal shield that can bar testimony or disclosure in court. The other concepts describe different issues—practicing law without a license and conflicts between duties to different clients—so they don’t fit the scenario.

Attorney-client privilege is the rule that protects communications between a lawyer and a client from disclosure, including preventing the attorney from testifying about those confidential conversations. This protection exists to encourage clients to speak openly and honestly so the lawyer can provide effective legal advice. It’s more specific than general confidentiality, which is a broader duty to keep client information private; privilege is a legal shield that can bar testimony or disclosure in court. The other concepts describe different issues—practicing law without a license and conflicts between duties to different clients—so they don’t fit the scenario.