What best differentiates confidentiality from attorney-client privilege?

The distinction between confidentiality and attorney-client privilege is fundamental in understanding the ethical obligations of attorneys. Confidentiality is a broader ethical duty that encompasses all information related to a client, irrespective of whether the information arose from a communication that was intended to be confidential or whether it pertains to legal advice. Confidentiality requires attorneys to protect all client information, even if it is not necessarily related to a legal matter or if it was not conveyed in a privileged communication.

On the other hand, attorney-client privilege is a legal doctrine that specifically protects certain communications made between a client and an attorney for the purpose of seeking or providing legal advice. However, this privilege is limited to communications that are made in confidence and for legal consultation. It does not apply to all information about a client's affairs or activities, particularly if such information is not shared explicitly in the course of obtaining legal advice.

This means that confidentiality covers a wider range of information than the attorney-client privilege, which is narrower and subject to specific legal standards. Therefore, the correct differentiation between the two concepts lies in the broader application of confidentiality, which is why the first choice effectively captures this distinction.