What is 'privileged communication' designed to protect?

Privileged communication is designed to protect socially important relationships and interests, specifically those that encourage open and honest dialogue. This concept primarily applies to communication between certain parties, such as attorney-client, doctor-patient, or clergy-penitent relationships. These privileges are intended to ensure that individuals can freely express themselves without fear that their disclosures will be used against them later, thereby promoting trust and candor in sensitive interpersonal contexts.

In this case, the protection helps maintain the integrity of these important relationships, allowing individuals to seek help or advice without risking their privacy. This principle underlies the legal framework that supports privileged communication, recognizing that certain relationships require extra protection for the well-being of society as a whole.