The attorney-client privilege is a rule that preserves the confidentiality of communications between attorneys and clients when the purpose of the communication is the client seeking legal advice and the attorney giving legal advice. The rule provides that attorneys may not disclose such communications, and opposing parties in civil litigation, criminal litigation, or other legal proceedings may not compel the disclosure of such communications. The privilege is designed to allow clients to openly share information with their attorney so the attorney can provide the most effective adv ice and representation possible.

In Illinois, the attorney-client privilege is a legal principle that protects the confidentiality of communications between attorneys and their clients. This privilege applies when the client is seeking legal advice and the attorney is providing that advice. Under Illinois law, as in other jurisdictions, attorneys are generally prohibited from disclosing any communication with their clients that falls within the scope of this privilege. This means that such communications cannot be compelled to be disclosed in civil, criminal, or other legal proceedings. The purpose of the attorney-client privilege is to encourage clients to communicate openly with their attorneys, enabling attorneys to offer informed and effective representation. The privilege is codified in Illinois rules of evidence and is subject to certain exceptions, such as when the client gives informed consent to the disclosure or when the communication relates to future crimes or fraud.