What is meant by privileged communication?

Privileged communication refers specifically to the legal concept that protects certain communications from being disclosed in legal proceedings. This protection is most commonly associated with conversations between a client and their attorney. The rationale behind this privilege is to encourage open and honest communication within the attorney-client relationship, allowing clients to share all relevant information with their lawyers without fear that this information will be revealed to others, including in court.

Such privilege is vital because it enables legal counsel to provide informed and effective representation based on complete insights into the case, fostering trust in the legal process. In contrast, communication with jail staff, public discussions among inmates, or even communications between inmates and visitors do not carry the same legal protection. These forms of communication can be subject to observation or reporting and do not ensure the confidentiality required for privileged status.