What is another word for benefit of clergy?
Pronunciation: [bˈɛnɪfˌɪt ɒv klˈɜːd͡ʒi] (IPA) 
Benefit of clergy refers to the privilege granted to members of the clergy where they can avoid punishment under the criminal law. In essence, it means that they are subject only to the discipline of the church courts instead of the civil courts. This legal term has several synonyms such as clerical immunity, ecclesiastical exemption, sanctuary, protection, privileged sanctuary, and church privilege. While the term originates from the medieval legal system, the concept is still relevant in modern jurisprudence. Nowadays, however, the privileges of the clergy are significantly curtailed and limited to only a few cases.
