Art. 511.  Communications to clergymen

A.  Definitions.  As used in this Article:

(1)  A "clergyman" is a minister, priest, rabbi, Christian Science practitioner, or other similar functionary of a religious organization, or an individual reasonably believed so to be by the person consulting him.

(2)  A communication is "confidential" if it is made privately and not intended for further disclosure except to other persons present in furtherance of the purpose of the communication.

B.  General rule of privilege.  A person has a privilege to refuse to disclose and to prevent another person from disclosing a confidential communication by the person to a clergyman in his professional character as spiritual adviser.

C.  Who may claim the privilege.  The privilege may be claimed by the person or by his legal representative.  The clergyman is presumed to have authority to claim the privilege on behalf of the person or deceased person.

Acts 1992, No. 376, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1993; Acts 2003, No. 1187, §2.