I. THE ATTORNEY-CLIENT PRIVILEGE -

Historically, the attorney-client privilege developed upon two assumptions: (1) good legal assistance requires full disclosure of a client’s legal problems; and (2) a client will only reveal the details required for proper representation if her confidences are protected. See, e.g., Fisher v. United States, 425 U.S. 391, 403 (1976). In response to these assumptions, the attorney-client privilege developed at common law to encourage free and open communication between client and lawyer, thus promoting informed, effective representation. 8 JOHN H. WIGMORE, EVIDENCE § 2291 (Supp. 2019). Because the privilege obstructs the search for truth, however, it is construed narrowly. See, e.g., Fisher, 425 U.S. at 403; Haines v. Liggett Grp., Inc., 975 F.2d 81, 84 (3d Cir. 1992) (“[S]ince the privilege has the effect of withholding relevant information from the factfinder, it applies only where necessary to achieve its purpose.”); In re Grand Jury Proceedings Under Seal, 947 F.2d 1188 (4th Cir. 1991).