What is a court order that allows the disclosure of information that would otherwise be prohibited?

A court order that allows the disclosure of information that would otherwise be prohibited is known as an authorization for disclosure. This legal instrument specifically grants permission to share confidential information, such as medical records or personal health information, that would typically be safeguarded under privacy laws and regulations, including HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act).

The significance of this authorization lies in its ability to balance the need for confidentiality with the necessity for transparency in specific legal or medical situations. For example, a healthcare provider may be required to release a patient's medical history in a legal case where the patient's health is pertinent to the matter being adjudicated. The authorization thus acts as a safeguard, ensuring that any disclosure made is within the bounds of the law and respects the individual’s privacy rights.

In contrast, the other terms represent different legal mechanisms. A subpoena compels a person to testify or produce evidence but may not specifically authorize the disclosure of confidential information. A search warrant authorizes law enforcement to search specific locations for evidence related to a crime but does not pertain to the disclosure of protected information. An injunction is a court order to either do or refrain from doing a specific act, which does not directly relate to the disclosure of information.