1. The expression or exchange of information by speech, writing, gestures, or conduct; the process of bringing an idea to another’s perception.
2. The information so expressed or exchanged.
conditionally privileged communication. A defamatory statement made in good faith by a person with an interest in a subject to someone who also has an interest in the subject, as an employer giving a negative but accurate job review of a former employee to a potential future employer. • The privilege may be lost upon a showing of malice or bad faith. [Cases: Libel and Slander 40. C.J.S. Libel and Slander; Injurious Falsehood §§ 57, 59, 64–65.]
confidential communication. A communication made within a certain protected relationship and legally protected from compelled disclosure in a legal proceeding. • Among confidential communications are those between hus-band and wife, attorney and client, and priest and penitent. See PRIVILEGE(3). [Cases: Witnesses 184–223. C.J.S. Witnesses §§ 297–389.]
ex parte communication. A communication between counsel and the court when opposing counsel is not present. • Such communications are ordinarily prohibited. [Cases: Trial 18. C.J.S. Trial §§ 91–92.]
privileged communication. A communication that is protected by law from compelled disclosure in a legal pro-ceeding, or that cannot be used against the person who made it. • Examples include an informant’s communication to a government agency and statements made in a legislative session by a legislator. See PRIVILEGE(3). [Cases: Witnesses 84–223. C.J.S. Witnesses §§ 297–389.]
