Commercial Contracts

Non-Disclosure Agreement

Also called: NDA, Confidentiality Agreement

A contract restricting how confidential information shared between parties may be used and disclosed.

NDAs can be one-way or mutual. Key terms are the definition of confidential information, the permitted purpose, the standard exclusions (information already public or independently developed), and how long the obligation lasts.

Why it matters: an NDA controls use, not just disclosure. A purpose clause that is too broad can permit a counterparty to use your information in ways you did not intend.

Related terms

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Editorial status: Lawkin Editorial — pending independent legal review.

Non-Disclosure Agreement — Canadian legal glossary | Lawkin — Lawkin