Which of the following best describes the concept of attorney-client privilege?

The concept of attorney-client privilege is fundamentally designed to protect the confidentiality of communications made in the course of a professional legal relationship. This privilege allows clients to speak freely and openly with their attorneys, ensuring that the legal advice they receive is based on complete and honest information.

For attorney-client privilege to be upheld, it is essential that the communications between the client and attorney are intended to be confidential. This requirement fosters an environment where clients can disclose sensitive information without fear of it being revealed in legal proceedings. Thus, the focus on confidentiality is what distinguishes privileged communications from other types of dialogues that may occur in various contexts.

The other options do not accurately encapsulate the essence of attorney-client privilege. While conversations between a client and an attorney can be extensive, the privilege does not blanket all conversations indiscriminately. Protection is not provided for every type of company communication; rather, it is specific to those involving legal advice. Also, while written agreements can clarify the scope of representation, the privilege itself does not depend on a written agreement to exist; it arises simply from the nature of the legal relationship.