Under attorney-client privilege, who is included in the definition of 'client'?

• A. Public reader
• B. Prospective client
• C. Unrelated third party
• D. Nonparty consultant

Answer: (B)

The key idea is that attorney-client privilege protects confidential communications made for the purpose of seeking or receiving legal services. The definition of who is a “client” is broad enough to include someone who is in the process of seeking legal advice, not just the person who ultimately hires the attorney—a prospective client.

Why this fits: A prospective client approaches an attorney specifically to obtain legal guidance. Even if they don’t end up hiring, the communications made for the purpose of obtaining legal services and kept confidential are protected. This encourages full and frank early discussions necessary to assess and obtain legal assistance.

Why the other options don’t fit: A public reader isn’t seeking or receiving legal advice in connection with a particular matter. An unrelated third party isn’t part of the attorney-client relationship and would undermine confidentiality. A nonparty consultant isn’t the client and, if present, could break the confidentiality essential to the privilege.

So, the best answer recognizes that a prospective client is included in the definition of the client for purposes of attorney-client privilege.