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Editorial

Privilege

Definition

A right to withhold evidence from disclosure. Legal professional privilege covers confidential lawyer–client communications for the purpose of legal advice, and communications for the dominant purpose of litigation.

In plain English: Some things you tell your lawyer cannot be forced out of either of you in court.

A general definition, not tied to any jurisdiction. Check the meaning in the system that governs your matter before relying on it.

Usage

Privilege belongs to the client, not the lawyer, and can be lost by waiver — including by inadvertent disclosure.