CPLR 4503(a)(1) codifies New York's attorney-client privilege for confidential communications between attorney and client. The Court of Appeals has consistently recognized that this codification is a "mere re-enactment of the common law rule." Hurlburt v. Hurlburt, 128 NY 420, 424 (1891). Accordingly, courts still look to the common law for guidance as to the proper construction of the privilege. Keeping abreast of judicial interpretations of CPLR 4503(a)(1) is thus a must for New York attorneys.