Michael. A Lebron | October 6, 2025 | Family Law Blog
If you are working with a lawyer, you may wonder: What exactly is attorney-client privilege? This legal rule is one of the strongest protections in Florida law, and it allows clients to speak freely with their lawyers without fear that private conversations will be revealed in court.
The privilege is critical for building trust, sharing all the facts, and creating a strong legal strategy. If you have a family law issue in Kissimmee, knowing how attorney-client privilege works can give you peace of mind.
What Is Attorney-Client Privilege?
Attorney-client privilege is a rule that keeps certain communications between a lawyer and their client private. In Florida, the privilege prevents a lawyer from disclosing confidential communications without the client’s consent. This means you can share personal details about your situation knowing they will remain protected.
The purpose is simple: lawyers can only help you if they know the full truth. Without this protection, many clients might hold back important details out of fear they could later be used against them.
When Does Attorney-Client Privilege Apply?
Not every conversation is automatically protected.
The privilege applies when three key conditions are met:
- You are seeking legal advice or services.
- The communication is intended to be confidential.
- The conversation occurs between you and your lawyer (or their legal staff).
This protection often starts as soon as you meet a lawyer for a consultation, even if you don’t officially hire them. In Florida, courts generally recognize that people need the ability to speak freely when exploring legal help.
These rules show why keeping discussions private is important. If a third party is present, the privilege may be lost.
Communications Covered by Privilege
Attorney-client privilege applies to more than face-to-face conversations.
It covers a wide range of communications, including:
- Phone calls with your lawyer
- Emails and text messages sent for legal advice
- Private meetings about your case
- Notes or documents prepared by your lawyer
However, conversations shared in public places, on social media, or in front of unrelated third parties are not protected. Always make sure your communications are private if you want them to stay privileged.
Attorney-Client Privilege vs. Confidentiality
People often confuse attorney-client privilege with confidentiality, but they are not the same. Privilege is a legal rule that protects your communications in court. Confidentiality is an ethical rule that requires your lawyer to keep almost all of your information private, even outside the courtroom.
Both protections work together to give you confidence in being open and honest. While confidentiality is broader, attorney-client privilege is enforceable in legal proceedings.
Can Attorney-Client Privilege Be Waived?
Yes, privilege can be waived, either intentionally or accidentally. For example, if you forward an email from your child custody lawyer to a friend or discuss your legal advice on social media, you may waive the privilege.
It can also be waived if you allow unrelated third parties to sit in during meetings with your lawyer. In Florida family law cases, even small mistakes like these can harm your ability to keep sensitive information private.
Exceptions to Attorney-Client Privilege
Like most legal rules, the attorney-client privilege has exceptions.
Florida law does not allow privilege to apply in cases where:
- A client seeks advice to commit or cover up a crime or fraud
- The communication is later shared with others voluntarily
- A client gives permission for the lawyer to disclose information
These exceptions ensure that the privilege is not abused while still protecting the majority of legitimate communications.
Understanding these limits can help you avoid costly mistakes in your case.
Why Attorney-Client Privilege Matters
Attorney-client privilege matters because it allows clients to be honest without fear of exposure. Without it, people might hold back critical details, weakening their lawyer’s ability to provide effective representation.
In family law, this protection can be especially important. Sensitive topics like divorce, custody, and finances require complete openness so your lawyer can guide you. The privilege builds the trust needed for strong advocacy.
Contact the Kissimmee Family Lawyers at Lebron Law, PLLC for Help Today
If you are dealing with a family law matter in Florida, knowing that your conversations with your lawyer are protected can help you feel secure. At Lebron Law, PLLC, we take attorney-client privilege seriously and ensure that your privacy is always respected.
For more information, contact our experienced Kissimmee family law & divorce attorneys at Lebron Law, PLLC to schedule a free consultation.
We serve all through Osceola County and its surrounding areas in Florida. Visit our office at:
Lebron Law, PLLC Kissimmee
15 S Orlando Ave, Kissimmee, FL 34741
(321) 800-5195
