Attorney-Client Privilege
Definition:
"Attorney-client privilege" is a legal term that means a lawyer cannot share information that a client gives them in private. This is to keep the client's secrets safe and allow them to talk openly without fear that their lawyer will tell anyone else.
Usage Instructions:
You can use this term when discussing legal matters, especially when talking about the rights of clients and lawyers. It is often mentioned in discussions about confidentiality and trust in the legal profession.
Example:
- "When I told my attorney about my case, I felt safe because of the attorney-client privilege. I knew they couldn't tell anyone what I said."
Advanced Usage:
In legal discussions, you might encounter phrases like "waiving attorney-client privilege," which means that a client has decided to give up their right to keep information confidential.
Word Variants:
- "Attorney" (noun): A person who is legally qualified to represent clients in legal matters. - "Client" (noun): A person receiving professional services, especially legal services.
Different Meanings:
The term "privilege" can also mean a special right or advantage given to a person or group. For example, being able to access certain exclusive events could be seen as a privilege.
Synonyms:
- Confidentiality - Secrecy - Privacy
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
While "attorney-client privilege" is a specific legal term, you might hear related phrases like: - "In the clear" (meaning free from suspicion or doubt, often related to having a safe conversation). - "Keep it under wraps" (meaning to keep something secret).