Legal Definitions - priest–penitent privilege

Definition: Priest-Penitent Privilege is a legal right that protects the confidentiality of communications made between a clergy member and a confessor during a religious confession. This privilege prevents the clergy member from testifying about the confessor's communications in a court of law.

Example: A person confesses to a priest about a crime they committed. The priest cannot testify about the confession in court, even if the confession involves a serious crime.

Explanation: The Priest-Penitent Privilege is based on the principle of religious freedom and the right to practice one's religion without interference from the government. The privilege allows individuals to confess their sins or wrongdoings to a clergy member without fear of legal repercussions. The clergy member is bound by the privilege and cannot disclose the contents of the confession to anyone, including law enforcement or the court. This privilege is recognized in many countries, including the United States, and is an important aspect of religious freedom and individual privacy.