In someone's back pocket?

[Sisy-luo]

If you're in somebody's back pocket, what the relationship between you is like? Maybe you're under his proctection, I assume? Thanks!

[hammer in exile]

No, you are not under their protection. What this phrase means is that a person has manipulated you into a position where they can use you for their own benefit. The reference is to "the back pocket" where the wallet is usually kept and implies that the manipulative process was achieved through "buying" you off, that is using their money to put you under an obligation.Hope this helps.

hammer in exile