California · Evidence Code

EVID §1032: As used in this article, “penitential communication” means a communication made in confidence, in the presence of no third person so far as the penitent is aware, to a member of the clergy who, in the

What this law says, in plain English

This statute defines 'penitential communication' as a confidential conversation between a person and a clergy member with no third parties present, made to a member of clergy.

Read the full statutory text

As used in this article, “penitential communication” means a communication made in confidence, in the presence of no third person so far as the penitent is aware, to a member of the clergy who, in the course of the discipline or practice of the clergy member’s church, denomination, or organization, is authorized or accustomed to hear those communications and, under the discipline or tenets of his or her church, denomination, or organization, has a duty to keep those communications secret.

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