State Secrets Privilege
/ˈsteɪt ˈsiːkrɪts ˈprɪvəlɪdʒ/
Definitions
- (n.) A legal doctrine allowing the government to withhold information in a lawsuit if disclosing it would harm national security.
The court dismissed the case after the government invoked the state secrets privilege to protect sensitive information.
Forms
- state secrets privilege
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Use cautiously, as invocation can lead to dismissal of cases; courts balance protecting state secrets against plaintiffs' right to a fair trial.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.