What does Rule 1.6 of ethics protect?

Rule 1.6 of the Model Rules of Professional Conduct specifically addresses the protection of a client's confidential information related to the representation. This rule emphasizes a lawyer's duty to maintain the privacy of information obtained from a client that pertains to the representation. The rationale behind this duty is rooted in the principles of trust and confidentiality that form the basis of the attorney-client relationship, allowing clients to fully disclose information without fear that it will be revealed to third parties.

This rule not only applies to information explicitly shared by the client but also includes information that the lawyer may learn from other sources related to the client’s representation. The fundamental aim is to safeguard the client's ability to communicate openly with their attorney. Thus, this protection is paramount in ensuring that clients can seek legal advice without concern for publicity or betrayal of their confidences.