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 Rhode Island, the attorney-client privilege is a legal principle that ensures 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 this rule, attorneys are prohibited from disclosing any communications that fall within the scope of the privilege, and such communications are also protected from being compelled in civil, criminal, or other legal proceedings. The purpose of the attorney-client privilege in Rhode Island is to encourage clients to communicate candidly with their attorneys, which is essential for the attorneys to provide effective representation and advice. The privilege is codified in Rhode Island's rules of evidence and is subject to certain exceptions and limitations, such as when the communication relates to future crimes or fraud or when the privilege has been waived by the client.