The term "under seal" refers to a legal procedure that allows sensitive or confidential information to be submitted to a court while keeping it private. When documents are filed under seal, they are not accessible to the public unless the court decides otherwise. This process typically requires the court's approval to ensure that the confidentiality of the information is maintained.
The concept of filing under seal is commonly used in various areas of law, including:
Users can manage the process of filing documents under seal with the right tools, such as legal templates provided by US Legal Forms, which are drafted by qualified attorneys.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A company files a motion to keep trade secrets confidential during a lawsuit against a competitor. The court grants the request, allowing the documents to be filed under seal.
Example 2: In a criminal case, a victim's identity is protected by filing certain evidence under seal to prevent public exposure. (hypothetical example)
Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):
| State | Procedure for Filing Under Seal |
|---|---|
| California | Requires a specific motion and a supporting declaration. |
| New York | Allows sealing for good cause shown, with a formal application. |
| Texas | Permits sealing under certain circumstances, typically requiring a hearing. |
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
| Term | Definition | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Confidential | Information that is meant to be kept private. | Under seal is a legal process; confidentiality is a characteristic of information. |
| Sealed Records | Documents that are not accessible to the public. | Sealed records are often a result of the under seal process but can also apply to court orders. |
If you believe you need to file documents under seal, consider the following steps:
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Documents that contain sensitive information, such as trade secrets, personal data, or confidential business records, can be filed under seal.