Legal Definitions - guild

A guild is a group of people who have the same job or skill and come together to protect and promote their profession. They work together to regulate the affairs of their trade and pay a fee for the general expenses of the guild.

For example, in medieval times, blacksmiths, weavers, and carpenters formed guilds to protect their interests and ensure fair wages. These guilds would set standards for their craft, train apprentices, and provide support for members in need.

Today, guilds still exist in some professions, such as the Screen Actors Guild for actors and the Writers Guild of America for writers. These organizations provide benefits and support for their members, such as health insurance and legal assistance.