An attorney working as in-house counsel must have a solid understanding of the attorney-client privilege. The attorneyclient privilege is wellknown for a reason.• For the privilege to apply, the communication must generally satisfy two requirements: The in-house counsel must have been acting in the role of an attorney. The answer is yes, the attorney client privilege applies to a free consultation even if the attorney is not hired. AOC defense either formally or informally. California draws a distinction between communications that enjoy an absolute privilege versus those that are considered to be a qualified privilege. This is a long-standing legal principle known as attorney-client privilege, which means that communication between attorneys and clients is confidential. So yes, the privilege starts during a free consultation, even though you haven't hired them or signed a contract with them. Referral service matches you with a pre-screened, Alameda County lawyer who is qualified to help you with your legal needs. Org, have volunteer attorney programs.