What is the main ethical concern addressed by MRPC Rule 1.6?

The primary ethical concern addressed by MRPC Rule 1.6 is maintaining client confidentiality. This rule establishes the obligation that lawyers have to protect their clients’ confidential information, which is fundamental to the attorney-client relationship. The confidentiality of client information is essential because it fosters open communication between clients and their attorneys, allowing clients to share sensitive information without fear of disclosure. By ensuring confidentiality, lawyers serve not only the interests of their clients but also uphold the integrity of the legal profession.

In contrast, ensuring fair billing practices relates more to Rule 1.5, which deals with a lawyer's fees and billing ethics. Connecting clients with reliable witnesses and evaluating evidence for trial involve aspects of legal strategy and advocacy but do not pertain specifically to the ethical obligation of confidentiality established in Rule 1.6. Thus, these other choices do not address the core issue of client confidentiality that is central to this rule.