Attorney-client privilege allows a litigant to safely prepare his case. Without this rule, he would be unable to file an affidavit for fear an earlier draft would be entered into evidence. He would also be unable to communicate freely with his lawyer for fear his questions or statements would be used against him. In short, the trial would begin the moment he retained counsel, and his ability to prepare his defense would be grievously impeded.

This article is an extract from the book ‘Principles of Good Government’ by Matthew Bransgrove