What primarily does the attorney-client privilege protect?

The attorney-client privilege primarily protects confidential communications made between a client and their attorney for the purpose of seeking legal advice or representation. This privilege encourages clients to be open and honest with their attorneys, allowing them to receive informed legal counsel without fear that their communications will be disclosed to third parties. The privilege specifically covers verbal and written communications as long as they are made in the context of the attorney-client relationship and are intended to remain confidential.

The other options do not accurately describe the nature of the privilege. While discussions between parties (option A) are significant, the attorney-client privilege specifically targets the confidentiality of communications related to legal advice. Physical evidence related to a case (option B) falls under different evidentiary rules but is not protected by attorney-client privilege in the same way as communications. Information that can risk the attorney's employment (option D) is not a focus of this privilege, as the primary concern is the client's right to confidentiality concerning legal matters, rather than the attorney's job security.