Discussion Board: Testing the contours of lawyer-client privilege

Experts share views on where this privilege starts or ends if the client has been declared a fugitive by the law enforcement agencies

Amit K Desai, senior advocate

Balance the privilege with needs of investigation

Attorney Client Privilege is the fulcrum of the relationship between a client and his/her lawyer. It is one of the oldest forms of protection under the privacy doctrine and a fundamental right in all democracies. It is a permanent privilege which commences when the client initiates the process for seeking advice. Its intent is to enable a full and frank disclosure to his lawyer who in turn can discharge his duties towards his client.

In India,