Mexican law recognizes the concept of privilege, although it is not established as an attorney-client privilege but as a "professional secrecy obligation." The obligation allows certain persons or professionals such as lawyers, doctors, ministers, or priests to refuse to produce information or give witness statements in certain circumstances. Specifically, attorneys have the right and obligation not to disclose any information that they have received in the course of a particular matter in which they are involved or which is connected to a matter entrusted to them. The information may only be disclosed if the lawyer has express authorization from the person who provided it.

Moreover, Mexican law establishes severe penalties for professionals who disclose any privileged information without authorization. Such penalties could take the form of a fine, revocation of the lawyer's license, or even imprisonment, depending on the loss caused by the disclosure.

In addition, bar associations in Mexico follow a Code of Ethics with respect to privilege. Under these ethical codes, the disclosure of information may result in "disbarment". Such a consequence does not necessarily prevent the lawyer from practicing, since it is not mandatory for lawyers in Mexico to be members of any bar or similar association.