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 New Mexico, 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 New Mexico law, specifically Rule 11-503 NMRA (New Mexico Rules of Evidence), attorneys are generally prohibited from disclosing any communication with their clients that falls within the scope of this privilege. Furthermore, the privilege prevents opposing parties in any legal proceedings, whether civil or criminal, from forcing the disclosure of these protected communications. The purpose of the attorney-client privilege in New Mexico is to encourage clients to communicate candidly with their attorneys, enabling the attorneys to offer informed and effective representation.