Privileged Communication Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Privileged Communication, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Privileged Communication?

n.These are conversations which are confidential in nature and are not to be disclosed in a legal proceeding under any circumstances.Such an information is shared with a lot of confidence and trust and cannot be disclosed without the consent of the client.It can be between husband and wife,doctor and patient,attorney and client,priest and any person who makes confession to him.In cases when such infomation gets disclosed intentionally or unintentionally legal action can be taken.

History and Meaning of Privileged Communication

Privileged communication refers to certain conversations or interactions that are protected under law and cannot be disclosed without consent. These conversations are considered confidential in nature and are intended to foster trust between parties, such as clients and their attorneys, or patients and their doctors. The concept of privileged communication has its roots in common law, and has been developed and refined over the centuries to address different types of confidential interactions.

Examples of Privileged Communication

  1. A person confessing their sins to a priest during a religious confession.
  2. A client discussing details of their case with their lawyer in a private meeting.
  3. A patient sharing sensitive medical information with their doctor during an examination.
  4. A husband and wife communicating during a confidential marital counseling session.
  5. A journalist receiving information from a confidential source.

Legal Terms Similar to Privileged Communication

  1. Attorney-Client Privilege: Similar to privileged communication, this term refers specifically to the confidentiality that exists between an attorney and their client.
  2. Doctor-Patient Confidentiality: A term used to describe the confidential nature of interactions between doctors or other medical professionals and their patients.
  3. Spousal Privilege: A legal principle that protects communications made between spouses from being disclosed in court without the consent of both parties.