What type of client information cannot be disclosed without client consent?

The correct choice revolves around the concept of client confidentiality, a fundamental principle in the attorney-client relationship. Confidential communications related to representation are protected and cannot be disclosed without the client's consent because they encompass sensitive information shared in the course of legal advice or assistance. This protection exists to ensure that clients can communicate openly and honestly with their attorneys without fear of disclosure, which is essential for effective representation.

This principle is enshrined in the California Rules of Professional Conduct, specifically Rule 1.6, which emphasizes the duty of confidentiality. Under this rule, an attorney is prohibited from revealing information relating to the representation of a client unless the client gives informed consent, or the disclosure is impliedly authorized to carry out the representation, or permitted by the rules.

In contrast, non-privileged information and information available in public records are not protected by confidentiality laws, as these are either known or readily accessible to the general public. Similarly, general legal advice, while beneficial to clients, does not fall under the same stringent confidentiality protections as client-specific communications relevant to their particular case. Thus, the nature of the information in communications directly tied to the attorney-client relationship is what necessitates the strict confidentiality rule.