What is one exception to Lawyer-Client Privilege?

The exception to lawyer-client privilege that is recognized in legal contexts involves situations where the communication between a lawyer and their client is made in furtherance of a crime or fraud. This means that if a client seeks legal advice or assistance in committing or covering up a crime or fraudulent act, that communication is not protected under the privilege.

The rationale behind this exception is that the legal system does not want to become a shield for illegal or unethical activities. It promotes the integrity of the legal process by ensuring that attorneys cannot facilitate or conceal criminal actions through the attorney-client relationship. Thus, if a client discusses plans or asks for advice about committing a crime or fraud, that information can be disclosed without violating the privilege.

The other options do not fully capture significant exceptions to the privilege. Client's historical insights or misunderstandings generally do not involve the intent to commit fraud or a crime and therefore would not typically result in the loss of privilege. A lawyer's personal opinion, while potentially relevant in other contexts, does not constitute an exception either; personal opinions do not negate the confidential nature of the communications unless they relate directly to aiding a criminal act.