Define "confidentiality" in the context of client-attorney relationships.

In the context of client-attorney relationships, confidentiality refers to the legal obligation that attorneys have to keep communications from their clients private. This principle is foundational to the attorney-client privilege, which serves to protect the trust between clients and their legal advisors. This confidentiality ensures that clients can openly disclose all relevant information without fear that it will be shared with others, which is crucial for the effective representation of the client.

The importance of this obligation cannot be overstated, as it allows clients to communicate freely about their cases, enabling attorneys to provide informed legal advice and representation. Breaching this confidentiality can undermine the client's case and the overall integrity of the legal profession. Thus, recognizing confidentiality as the legal obligation to maintain the privacy of client communications is critical for anyone involved in legal practice.