When confessional walls have ears: The changing clergy privileged communications law

Both recent court decisions and state laws have changed the ethic of confidentiality between clergy and those they serve. Clergy and their church members and clients need to know the limitations upon their private communications. While each state determines the law of privileged communications, the author outlines the general requirements of the privilege. A state-by-state chart is included that references each clergy privilege law and some of the language that limits the privilege.