Sealing & Redaction Procedures
1765 rules across 20 courts
Sealing procedures govern how attorneys file documents containing confidential, privileged, or sensitive information. The process typically involves filing a redacted version on ECF (the public record) and delivering an unredacted version directly to chambers or the clerk. Judges differ on whether a formal motion to seal is required, what categories of information justify sealing, and the required redaction format. Some judges require black-box redactions; others accept highlighted redactions. Getting the process wrong can result in confidential information appearing on the public docket, or in a filing being rejected entirely. These rules are particularly important in cases involving trade secrets, personal information, or ongoing investigations.
Southern District of New York
View all rules for SDNY.Sealed/redacted filings in civil cases must be filed electronically through ECF with motion for approval.
Motions to seal must be filed publicly with explanation, supporting papers filed separately under seal or redacted.
Sealed documents must be filed under seal in ECF and related to the motion; docket text remains public.
For redactions in public filings, file redacted version publicly and unredacted version under seal with highlights.
Parties unable to file under seal electronically must seek leave to file on paper.
Confidential designation limited to specific categories of information
Confidential designation requires clear marking and redacted copies
Deposition transcripts must be designated confidential within 30 days or marked on record during deposition.
Producing party can retroactively designate previously produced material as confidential by notifying all recipients in writing.
Confidential discovery material may only be disclosed to specified persons.
Documents filed under seal require a letter brief and declaration justifying continued sealing.
Confidential submissions require redacted public filing, sealed unredacted filing with Clerk, and unredacted courtesy copies to Court and opposing counsel.
Inadvertent disclosure of privileged information does not waive privilege.
Recipients must return or destroy confidential discovery material within 60 days of final disposition.
All redactions or sealing of public court filings require court approval, except for specified categories.
Meet and confer requirement before filing sealed or redacted materials.
Three-day notice requirement when filing sealed/redacted materials based on another party's request.
Sealed documents cannot be served via ECF; alternative service methods must be agreed upon.
Letter motion required to file documents under seal, following specific standing orders.
Letter motion must be filed publicly and explain reasons without confidential information.
Sealed document must be separately and contemporaneously filed under seal and related to the motion.
Summary docket text must not include confidential information, though it remains publicly accessible.
Letter motion required to file documents in redacted form, following specific standing orders.
Letter motion for redacted documents must be filed publicly and explain reasons without confidential information.
Parties must file letter motion by email to seek leave to file under seal differently than ECF
Provide sealing order and supporting documents to Chambers; continued sealing requires particularized allegations.
Sealed or confidential letters may be emailed as PDF attachments.
Sealed or confidential letters may be emailed as PDF attachments with copies to all counsel, with specific subject line requirements.
Two categories of information can be redacted without court approval: sensitive information and information requiring caution.
Sensitive information (SSN, minor names, DOB, account numbers, addresses) can be partially redacted without court approval.
Six categories of information requiring caution can be redacted without court approval.
All redactions/sealing except specified categories require court approval.
File redacted document version on ECF.
File letter-motion on ECF seeking leave for redactions requiring court approval.
When filing redacted documents, email unredacted copies and highlighted versions to Chambers
Replace sealed exhibits with a single 'SEALED' page when filing main document on ECF
For entirely sealed documents, email unredacted copy to Chambers with letter-motion seeking leave to seal
Parties must comply with ECF Privacy Policy for document submissions.
Sensitive information categories must be redacted unless necessary.
Redacted pages containing sensitive information must be filed under seal.
Applications required for redactions beyond ECF Privacy Policy categories.
Ex parte TRO applications must file on ECF under seal (or email to Chambers if ECF unavailable) and email Chambers notice.
Sensitive and cautionary information may be redacted from public filings without court approval, with specific redaction formats required.
All redactions or sealing except those in 11(A) or protective orders require court approval, must be narrowly tailored, and consistent with public access presumptions.
Sealed documents require a public letter-motion on ECF, with the sealed document filed contemporaneously under seal on ECF and related to the motion.
Redacted documents require a public letter-motion on ECF, public redacted copy, and sealed unredacted copy with highlighted redactions on ECF.
Sensitive information (SSN, minor children names, DOBs, account numbers, home addresses) must be redacted unless necessary.
Redacted pages must be filed under seal and brought to sentencing with redaction markings.
Redactions beyond 11 categories require application served and filed with sentencing submission.
Parties may redact 11 categories of sensitive information without court application; only redacted pages filed under seal; marked copy must be brought to sentencing.
Redaction beyond the 11 categories identified in the Privacy Policy requires a court application filed with the sentencing submission.
Confidential portions of discovery materials must be stamped/marked and a redacted copy produced for public use.
Deposition transcripts can be designated confidential during deposition or within 30 days after, with entire transcript treated as confidential during the 30-day period.
Leave required before filing redacted or sealed documents.
Sealed filings require public redacted copies via ECF.
PII must be maintained securely and confidentially.
Confidential materials must be returned or destroyed within 30 days after case ends.
Motions for sealed/redacted filings must follow specific court procedures and standing order.
Redacted and unredacted sealed versions must be filed simultaneously for confidential materials.
Sealing request letter must be filed within 3 business days of redacted filing.
Sealed filings require redacted ECF copy, sealed unredacted copy, and permission letter.
Motion required to file sealed documents on paper instead of ECF.
Request to file under seal/redacted must be by letter-motion or motion with specific reasons.
FRCP 5.2 requires redaction of SSNs, minor children names, DOBs, and account numbers without court approval.
Sealing motions must be filed publicly with reasons, excluding confidential info.
Proposed sealed documents must be contemporaneously filed under seal and related to motion.
For redaction approval, publicly file redacted document and under seal file unredacted with highlights.
Meet and confer with opposing parties before filing sealed/redacted materials.
Motion to seal must justify request under Lugosch standards and state if on consent.
Opposing party must file letter explaining need to seal within 3 days.
Must move for leave to file sealed documents on paper if unable to use ECF.
Sealed ECF documents cannot be served through ECF system.
Paper filing allowed for classified or national security information.
Follow procedures in Amended Standing Order 21-mc-0006 for paper sealed filings.
Sealed filing applications must be emailed to Chambers with all counsel copied.
Sealed filing applications must include complete unredacted copies and explain redactions.
Granted sealed filings must be delivered to Records Management Department.
Unruled sealed documents must be brought to proceedings for Court review.
Sealed sentencing submissions must be emailed to Chambers and hard copy brought to hearing.
All redactions or sealing of public court filings require Court approval.
File clean copy of entire document under seal on ECF, including all attachments.
File letter motion seeking leave to seal/redact, explaining purpose and legal basis.
Email documents with proposed redactions/highlights and clean letter motion to chambers.
File public version with approved redactions and sealed pages after Court approval.
Sealed filings require both sealed and redacted versions; sensitive info must be redacted.
Motion to seal must cite case law and justify sealing within 7 days.
Motions for sealed/redacted filings must be filed electronically with specific requirements.
Motions for sealed filings must be public and explain reasons; supporting papers filed separately.
Sealed documents must be filed under seal and related to the motion; docket text remains public.
For redacted public filings, file redacted version publicly and unredacted version under seal.
Sealed/redacted filings must be filed electronically through ECF system.
Motion to seal must be filed publicly with reasons, without confidential information.
Sealed document must be filed under seal and electronically related to motion.
For redactions, file public version with redactions and sealed version with highlighted redactions.
Parties unable to file electronically must move for leave to file on paper.
Social Security numbers, minor children's names, dates of birth, and financial account numbers must be redacted from public filings without prior court approval.
Motions to seal must be filed publicly, explain reasons for sealing, and not include the confidential information sought to be sealed.
Supporting papers for sealing motions must be separately filed and may be under seal or redacted only as necessary.
Proposed sealed documents must be contemporaneously filed under seal in ECF and electronically related to the motion.
For approved redactions, publicly file redacted version and under seal file unredacted version with redactions highlighted.
Protective order proposals must conform to Court's Model Protective Order
Modifications to Model Protective Order require redline emailed to Chambers
Notice of at least 3 business days required before filing documents under seal.
Sealed documents must be filed in ECF system; redacted public version and unredacted sealed version both required.
Electronic copies of sealed documents must be emailed to Court; hard copies only if requested.
Sealed/redacted filings must follow standing order 19-mc-00583 and ECF Rules. Letter motions ≤5 pages may be faxed to Chambers; >5 pages must be mailed or hand delivered.
Requesting party must identify all parties who should have access to sealed/unredacted versions of proposed filings.
For ex parte TRO applications, file under seal on ECF or email to Chambers, then call Chambers.
Two categories of information may be redacted without court approval
All redactions/sealing require court approval except for sensitive/caution categories
Meet and confer required before filing sealed/redacted documents
Opposing parties must file letter explaining need to seal/redact within 3 business days when requested by another party.
Sealed documents require letter-motion explaining reasons, filed publicly, with sealed document filed under seal on ECF.
Redacted documents require letter-motion, public filing of redacted version, and sealed filing of unredacted version with redactions highlighted.
Sealed filings require both sealed and redacted versions, with redactions clearly indicated.
Motion to seal must be filed within 7 days, either by the filing party or the designating party.
Sentencing letters must follow Rule 10 redaction/sealing requirements.
Parties may redact sensitive and caution information without court approval.
All redactions/sealing except Rule 10.A require court approval.
File redacted document on ECF first
File letter-motion seeking leave to redact if redactions need court approval
Email unredacted document, highlighted version, and unredacted letter-motion to chambers
File main document on ECF with 'SEALED' page replacing sealed exhibits
Email unredacted sealed document and letter-motion to chambers, do not file on ECF
Certain sensitive information must be redacted without court approval.
Two categories of information can be redacted without court approval: sensitive and caution categories.
All redactions not in permitted categories require court approval.
Redacted documents require public letter motion explaining redactions
Publicly file redacted document and under seal file unredacted version with highlights
Replace sealed exhibits with single page marked 'SEALED'
Sealed entire documents require public letter motion with explanation
Sealed documents must be filed under seal on ECF and related to motion
Request leave to file sealed documents on paper if unable to use ECF
To file under seal: file a redacted copy on ECF, file a sealed copy on ECF, and email an unredacted copy to chambers.
Sealed documents cannot be accessed on ECF; parties must separately serve opposing counsel with sealed materials outside of ECF.
If parties cannot agree to unredact all sealed material, the confidentiality-seeking party must file a letter motion within 3 business days of the meet and confer.
Motions to seal must address the Second Circuit's Lugosch and Bernstein standards and include proposed redactions.
When ordered to unredact, the party must file unredacted documents on ECF within 3 business days of the court's order.
All settlement conference communications are strictly confidential, off the record, inadmissible at trial, and may not be used in discovery.
Sealing application requires affidavits, memorandum of law, and specific case citations.
Sealing application must include proposed redacted version for public docketing.
Sealed letters in civil/miscellaneous cases must follow Paragraph 3 procedures.
Permission required to file redacted or sealed submissions.
Motions for sealed/redacted filings must follow specific court procedures and standing order.
Rule 5.2(a) redactions don't need court approval but require filing unredacted version under seal or emailing to chambers.
Documents in sealed cases or previously ordered sealed documents must be filed under seal on ECF with courtesy copy to chambers if over 20 pages.
Non-Rule 5.2(a) redactions/sealing require letter motion explaining why sealing is appropriate under Lugosch presumption of access.
File supporting papers as separate ECF entry, may be under seal/redacted only as necessary.
File subject documents under seal on ECF with redactions highlighted; mark as related to letter motion; docket text must not reveal sealed info.
File redacted versions of documents in public view on ECF.
Non-electronic sealing requires explanation of why ECF sealing cannot be used
Non-electronic sealed documents must be emailed to Chambers; non-sensitive documents must also be filed on ECF
Approved non-electronic sealed filings must be submitted to Sealed Records Department with order, unredacted copies, and PDF CD
Redacted version must be filed on ECF unless entire document is sealed.
Unredacted copy must be emailed to Chambers; courtesy copy if over 20 pages.
Redacted information must be highlighted in unredacted copy.
Obtain court leave before filing any document under seal; file redacted copies if granted.
Documents cannot be filed under seal without court order; must include affidavit and legal memorandum addressing sealing standards and Lugosch v. Pyramid Co.
Sealed/redacted filings must be filed electronically through ECF system following court's standing order and ECF rules.
Motion for sealing must be filed publicly with reasons; supporting papers may be filed under seal/redacted as needed.
Proposed sealed document must be contemporaneously filed under seal in ECF and related to motion; summary docket text remains public.
For redactions in publicly filed documents: file redacted version publicly and unredacted version under seal with highlights, both electronically related to motion.
Two categories of information may be redacted without court approval: sensitive information and information requiring caution.
Redactions not in approved categories require court approval through a three-step process.
Email unredacted and highlighted copies to Chambers when filing redacted documents
File main document on ECF with 'SEALED' placeholder for sealed exhibits
Email entire unredacted submission to Chambers for fully sealed documents
Sealed or confidential letters may be emailed as PDF attachments with copies to all counsel, with specific subject line requirements.
Ex parte TRO applications must be filed under seal on ECF or emailed to Chambers.
Two categories of information may be redacted without court approval: sensitive information (5 categories) and information requiring caution (6 categories).
All redactions or sealing of public court filings require court approval, except those permitted in Paragraph 11(A) or by protective order.
Parties must meet and confer before seeking to seal or redact documents, and notify opposing parties of the need to file within 3 business days.
Sealed documents require a public letter-motion explaining reasons, with the document filed under seal and electronically related to the motion.
Redacted documents require a public letter-motion, public filing of redacted version, and sealed filing of unredacted version with redactions highlighted.
Two categories of information can be redacted without court approval: sensitive information and information requiring caution.
Sensitive information (SSN, minor names, DOB, account numbers, addresses) can be partially redacted without court approval.
Six categories of information requiring caution can be redacted without court approval.
All redactions/sealing except specified categories require court approval.
File redacted document version on ECF.
File letter-motion on ECF seeking leave for redactions requiring court approval.
When filing redacted documents, email unredacted copies and highlighted versions to Chambers
Replace sealed exhibits with a single 'SEALED' page when filing main document on ECF
For entirely sealed documents, email unredacted copy to Chambers with letter-motion seeking leave to seal
Two categories of information may be redacted without court approval: sensitive information (SSNs, minor children names, DOBs, account numbers, home addresses) and information requiring caution (personal identifying numbers, medical records, employment history, financial information, proprietary information, cooperation information).
Three-step process for filing documents with redactions
Procedure for filing fully sealed documents
Provide sealing order and supporting documents to Chambers; continued sealing requires particularized allegations.
Confidential designation limited to specific categories of information
Confidential designation requires clear marking and redacted copies
Deposition transcripts must be designated confidential within 30 days or marked on record during deposition.
Producing party can retroactively designate previously produced material as confidential by notifying all recipients in writing.
Confidential discovery material may only be disclosed to specified persons.
Documents filed under seal require a letter brief and declaration justifying continued sealing.
Confidential submissions require redacted public filing, sealed unredacted filing with Clerk, and unredacted courtesy copies to Court and opposing counsel.
Inadvertent disclosure of privileged information does not waive privilege.
Recipients must return or destroy confidential discovery material within 60 days of final disposition.
Sensitive information (SSN, minor names, DOB, account numbers, addresses) must be redacted from public filings
Three-step process for filing documents with redactions: ECF filing, letter-motion seeking leave, and emailing unredacted copies to chambers.
Sealed exhibits must be replaced with a single 'SEALED' page on ECF, with simultaneous letter-motion seeking leave.
Entire documents to be filed under seal should be emailed directly to chambers with letter-motion, not filed on ECF.
Documents containing confidential information must be filed under seal, with producing party responsible for satisfying preconditions.
Confidential information must be returned or destroyed within 30 days after final judgment, except counsel may retain working files.
Confidential information filed with court must be filed under seal
Documents/information labeled 'CONFIDENTIAL – PRODUCED PURSUANT TO PROTECTIVE ORDER' are confidential by court order.
Sentencing submissions must be filed on ECF with redactions and courtesy copies provided to the Court.
Certain sensitive information must be redacted from filings without court approval.
Motions for sealed filings must be filed electronically following specific procedures.
Motions for sealed filings must be public and explain reasons without including confidential information.
Redaction requires filing redacted version publicly and unredacted version under seal with highlights.
Opposing party must file letter explaining need to seal/redact within 3 days.
Motion required to file sealed documents on paper instead of ECF.
Sealed or confidential letters may be emailed as PDF attachments.
Motions for approval of sealed or redacted filings must be filed electronically through ECF system in conformity with Local Civil Rule 5.2 and Court's standing orders.
Motion for sealed filing must be filed in public view, explain reasons for sealing, and not include confidential information. Supporting papers may be filed under seal or redacted.
Proposed sealed document must be contemporaneously filed under seal in ECF system and electronically related to the motion. Summary docket text will be open to public inspection.
For redactions from publicly filed documents, file redacted version publicly and unredacted version under seal with redactions highlighted. Both must be electronically filed through ECF.
Parties unable to file under seal electronically must move for leave to file in traditional manner on paper.
Inadvertently produced privileged documents must be immediately returned or destroyed.
Redacted pages must be filed under seal and brought to sentencing with redaction markings.
Redactions beyond 11 categories require application served and filed with sentencing submission.
Confidential portions of discovery materials must be stamped/marked and a redacted copy produced for public use.
Sentencing letters must follow Rule 10 redaction/sealing requirements.
Parties may redact sensitive and caution information without court approval.
All redactions/sealing except Rule 10.A require court approval.
File redacted document on ECF first
File letter-motion seeking leave to redact if redactions need court approval
Email unredacted document, highlighted version, and unredacted letter-motion to chambers
File main document on ECF with 'SEALED' page replacing sealed exhibits
Email unredacted sealed document and letter-motion to chambers, do not file on ECF
Deposition transcripts can be designated confidential during deposition or within 30 days after, with entire transcript treated as confidential during the 30-day period.
Leave required before filing redacted or sealed documents.
Sealed filings require public redacted copies via ECF.
PII must be maintained securely and confidentially.
Confidential materials must be returned or destroyed within 30 days after case ends.
Protective order proposals must conform to Court's Model Protective Order
Modifications to Model Protective Order require redline emailed to Chambers
Notice of at least 3 business days required before filing documents under seal.
Sealed documents must be filed in ECF system; redacted public version and unredacted sealed version both required.
Electronic copies of sealed documents must be emailed to Court; hard copies only if requested.
Sealed/redacted motions must comply with Rule 9.
Parties may redact sensitive information and information requiring caution without court approval, following specific formatting rules.
Redactions or sealing of public court filings require court approval unless permitted by Rule 9.A.
Parties must meet and confer with opposing parties before seeking to file sealed or redacted documents.
Sealed documents require a letter-motion filed in public view, with the sealed document filed separately under seal on ECF.
Redacted documents require a letter-motion filed in public view, with the redacted version publicly filed and the unredacted version filed under seal on ECF.
Parties unable to file electronically under seal may email letter-motions to chambers with specific formatting requirements.
Sealed or confidential letters must follow specific filing procedures.
Procedures for filing sealed or redacted documents
Meet and confer required before filing sealed/redacted materials
Sealed documents must be filed on ECF following specific procedures
Redacted documents require public filing with proposed redactions and sealed unredacted copy
Paper filing requires motion for leave of court
Sensitive information categories must be redacted or limited in sentencing submissions.
Redacted pages must be filed under seal; unredacted copy emailed to Chambers.
Redactions beyond 12 categories require application filed with sentencing submission.
Protective order restrictions apply to confidential information in discovery responses.
Sensitive information (SSN, minor children names, DOBs, account numbers, home addresses) must be redacted unless necessary.
Sealing/redaction requiring court approval
Redacted filings under seal require letter to Chambers with highlighted proposed redactions; hard copy if over 25 pages.
Counsel may designate documents and information as confidential in good faith.
Confidential information may only be disclosed to requesting party and counsel.
Consultants/experts and witnesses must sign confidentiality agreement before accessing confidential information.
Confidential information must be returned or destroyed within 30 days after final judgment.
Documents containing confidential information must be filed under seal with court permission.
Sealed/redacted filings require electronic motion under seal
Proposed sealed document must be filed under seal and related to motion
Redacted pages from sentencing documents must be filed under seal
Redactions beyond specified categories require court approval and email to chambers
Redacted copies filed on ECF, unredacted hard copies to chambers for privileged/sensitive material.
Sealed/redacted filings must be filed electronically through ECF system.
Motion for sealed filing must be public and explain reasons without including sealed info.
Proposed sealed document must be contemporaneously filed under seal in ECF.
For redacted public filings, file redacted version publicly and unredacted under seal.
Parties must seek leave to file on paper if unable to file electronically under seal.
Applications required for redactions beyond standard categories in sentencing submissions
Supporting papers for sealing must be filed electronically and may be sealed/redacted only as necessary.
Sealed documents must be filed under seal in ECF and related to the motion; docket text must not contain confidential information.
For redaction approval, file redacted version publicly and unredacted version under seal with highlights.
Motions for sealed/redacted filings must be filed electronically with specific requirements.
Motions for sealed filings must be public and explain reasons; supporting papers filed separately.
Sealed documents must be filed under seal and related to the motion; docket text remains public.
For redacted public filings, file redacted version publicly and unredacted version under seal.
Request to file under seal/redacted must be by letter-motion or motion with specific reasons.
FRCP 5.2 requires redaction of SSNs, minor children names, DOBs, and account numbers without court approval.
Sealing motions must be filed publicly with reasons, excluding confidential info.
Proposed sealed documents must be contemporaneously filed under seal and related to motion.
For redaction approval, publicly file redacted document and under seal file unredacted with highlights.
Meet and confer with opposing parties before filing sealed/redacted materials.
Motion to seal must justify request under Lugosch standards and state if on consent.
Opposing party must file letter explaining need to seal within 3 days.
Must move for leave to file sealed documents on paper if unable to use ECF.
Sealed ECF documents cannot be served through ECF system.
Paper filing allowed for classified or national security information.
Follow procedures in Amended Standing Order 21-mc-0006 for paper sealed filings.
Sealed filing applications must be emailed to Chambers with all counsel copied.
Sealed filing applications must include complete unredacted copies and explain redactions.
Granted sealed filings must be delivered to Records Management Department.
Unruled sealed documents must be brought to proceedings for Court review.
Sealed sentencing submissions must be emailed to Chambers and hard copy brought to hearing.
Sealed/redacted filings must be filed electronically through ECF system.
Motion to seal must be filed publicly with reasons, without confidential information.
Sealed document must be filed under seal and electronically related to motion.
For redactions, file public version with redactions and sealed version with highlighted redactions.
Parties unable to file electronically must move for leave to file on paper.
Sensitive personal information must be redacted unless relevant to the case.
Parties must avoid including sensitive information unless necessary in submissions.
All redactions or sealing of public court filings require Court approval except for permitted categories.
Redactions must be narrowly tailored and consistent with public access presumption.
Court reviews each proposed redaction individually.
Parties' consent or confidentiality agreements alone don't justify sealing.
File redacted document version on ECF.
File letter-motion seeking leave to redact if redactions require Court approval.
For sealed exhibits, file main document on ECF with 'SEALED' placeholder page and simultaneous letter-motion seeking leave.
For entire sealed documents, email unredacted copy to chambers with letter-motion explaining sealing justification; no ECF filing initially.
Sealed/redacted filings in civil cases must be filed electronically through ECF with motion for approval.
Motions to seal must be filed publicly with explanation, supporting papers filed separately under seal or redacted.
Sealed documents must be filed under seal in ECF and related to the motion; docket text remains public.
For redactions in public filings, file redacted version publicly and unredacted version under seal with highlights.
Parties unable to file under seal electronically must seek leave to file on paper.
Sealed/sensitive letters must be emailed as PDF with copy to all counsel
Certain sensitive information must be redacted from public filings without court approval.
Motions for sealed/redacted filings must be filed electronically through ECF.
Motions for sealed filings must be filed publicly with non-confidential explanations.
Proposed sealed documents must be filed under seal and related to the motion.
For redactions in public filings, file redacted version publicly and unredacted version under seal.
Submit sealed/redacted documents, motion, and supporting papers in paper form by hand delivery or mail.
Proposed redactions must be highlighted in paper filings.
Confidential designation limited to specific categories of sensitive information
Parties must not include sensitive personal information in filings.
Pro se parties must submit redacted versions of documents with sensitive info.
Must request permission to include sensitive info if relevant to case.
Redacted documents must be publicly filed with proposed redactions
Redactions beyond 11 categories require court approval with application.
Redacted pages must be filed under seal at sentencing proceeding.
Service of sealed documents must be done outside ECF with proof of service filed in ECF
Redacted and unredacted sealed versions must be filed simultaneously for confidential materials.
Sealing request letter must be filed within 3 business days of redacted filing.
Sealed filings require redacted ECF copy, sealed unredacted copy, and permission letter.
Motion required to file sealed documents on paper instead of ECF.
Confidential designation requires stamping and producing redacted copy
Confidential designation for deposition transcripts requires on-record indication
Non-Disclosure Agreements required for certain recipients of confidential discovery material
Third-party confidentiality obligations require notice and potential protective order
Confidential discovery material may only be used for litigation purposes
Sealing procedures differ for non-dispositive vs dispositive matters, with specific sections to follow.
Sealed filings must include a publicly filed redacted copy via ECF.
Sealed court orders must be served by first-class mail or other secure means approved by judge
Sealed documents cannot be served via CM/ECF; must use other appropriate means.
Sealed orders must be served in paper form by first-class mail or other secure means.
Filing under seal requires court permission.
Motions for sealed/redacted filings must be filed electronically through ECF
Sealed filings require both sealed and redacted versions, with redactions clearly indicated.
Motion to seal must be filed within 7 days, either by the filing party or the designating party.
Sealed/redacted filings require electronic filing through ECF with motion.
Motions to seal must be filed publicly with reasons, excluding confidential info.
Supporting papers must be filed electronically, may be sealed/redacted as needed.
Proposed sealed documents must be filed under seal and related to the motion.
For redactions, file public version with redactions and sealed unredacted version.
For redaction approval motions, file redacted version publicly and unredacted version under seal with highlights.
Sealed/redacted filings require letter-motion filed electronically on ECF
Letter-motion for sealing must be filed publicly with explanation
Documents to be sealed must be filed under seal and related to letter-motion
Redacted documents must be publicly filed with unredacted version under seal
Sealing/redaction must be narrowly tailored and consistent with public access presumption
Opposing parties must respond to sealing/redaction requests via ECF
Meet and confer required before filing sealed/redacted materials
Receiving parties must return/destroy inadvertently disclosed privileged info within 5 business days.
Disclosing party must produce privilege log within 5 business days of return/destruction.
Protective order survives termination; confidential materials must be returned or destroyed within 30 days.
Request to file redacted/sealed documents must be made by letter explaining reasons and legal basis.
Sealed/redacted filings must be filed electronically through ECF system following specific standing order and ECF rules.
Motion to seal must be filed publicly and explain reasons without including confidential information.
Supporting papers for seal motions may be filed under seal or redacted only as necessary.
Proposed sealed document must be contemporaneously filed under seal and electronically related to the motion.
For redaction approval, file redacted version publicly and unredacted version under seal with highlights, both electronically related to motion.
Request to file redacted documents under seal requires letter motion with specific legal justification.
Joint submission required for redaction requests based on another party's confidential designation.
Sealed/redacted filing requests must be filed electronically via ECF per standing order 19-mc-00583.
Motion for seal must be public; supporting papers filed separately under seal only as necessary.
Proposed sealed documents must be contemporaneously filed under seal in ECF and electronically related to motion.
Parties must move for leave to file sealed documents on paper if unable to use ECF system.
Sealed filings require both public redacted version and sealed unredacted version with redactions highlighted.
Procedures required for filing documents under seal or with redactions
Confidential materials may be redacted or filed under seal only with Court direction or as required by FRCP 5.2.
Parties must discuss in good faith whether confidential materials need to be filed under seal.
Sealed/redacted filings require letter-motion filed electronically through ECF system
Motion to seal must be filed publicly and explain reasons without confidential info
Supporting papers for seal motion may be filed under seal or redacted as needed
Proposed sealed document must be filed under seal and related to motion in ECF
For redactions in public filings, file redacted version publicly and unredacted under seal
Pro se litigants unable to file electronically must mail/hand-deliver sealed submissions to Pro Se Intake Unit
If seal motion denied in part, refile with modified redactions as directed by Court
Court will file under seal clean unredacted pages for approved redactions
Confidential materials may only be redacted/filed under seal with court direction
Sealed/redacted filings must be filed electronically through ECF system
Motion to seal must be filed publicly and explain reasons without including confidential info
Proposed sealed document must be filed under seal and related to motion
Redaction requests require public filing with redactions and sealed filing of unredacted version
Paper filing requires motion for leave if unable to comply with electronic filing
Sensitive information categories: SSNs (last 4 digits), minor children names (initials), DOBs (year only), account numbers (last 4 digits), home addresses (city/state only).
All redactions or sealing of public court filings require Court approval except for permitted categories.
File the redacted version of the document on ECF.
If seeking leave to redact, file letter-motion on ECF simultaneously with redacted document.
Unredacted letter-motion must be emailed to chambers when seeking leave to file sealed/redacted documents
Sealed exhibits must be replaced with a single 'SEALED' page when filing main document on ECF
Entire sealed submissions must be emailed to chambers, not filed on ECF
Sealed filings require both sealed and redacted versions; sensitive info must be redacted.
Motion to seal must cite case law and justify sealing within 7 days.
Request to file redacted documents under seal requires letter motion with specific legal justification.
Joint submission required for redaction requests based on another party's confidential designation.
Sealed/redacted filing requests must be filed electronically via ECF per standing order 19-mc-00583.
Motion for seal must be public; supporting papers filed separately under seal only as necessary.
Proposed sealed documents must be contemporaneously filed under seal in ECF and electronically related to motion.
Parties must move for leave to file sealed documents on paper if unable to use ECF system.
Sealed filings require both public redacted version and sealed unredacted version with redactions highlighted.
Receiving parties must return/destroy inadvertently disclosed privileged info within 5 business days.
Disclosing party must produce privilege log within 5 business days of return/destruction.
Protective order survives termination; confidential materials must be returned or destroyed within 30 days.
Confidential information should be separated via redaction when possible.
No presumption that confidential discovery materials will be filed under seal; parties must follow individual judge practices for pretrial sealing requests.
Motions to compel production of inadvertently disclosed privileged information must be filed under seal.
Confidential information filed with court must be filed under seal
Documents/information labeled 'CONFIDENTIAL – PRODUCED PURSUANT TO PROTECTIVE ORDER' are confidential by court order.
Procedures required for filing documents under seal or with redactions
Two categories of information may be redacted without court approval: sensitive information and information requiring caution
All redactions or sealing of public court filings require court approval except for permitted categories
Meet and confer with opposing parties/third parties before seeking to file sealed/redacted materials
File letter-motion seeking leave to file document under seal on ECF following Standing Order 19-MC-583
All sealing and redactions require Court approval except for specified sensitive information
Proposed sealed documents must be filed under seal and electronically related to the motion
For redactions in publicly filed documents, file redacted version publicly and unredacted version under seal
Parties must seek leave to file sealed documents on paper if unable to use ECF system.
All sealing and redactions except those in Section 4.A require Court approval.
Motions for sealed/redacted filings must be filed on ECF in public view with reasons; supporting papers filed separately and may be sealed/redacted only as necessary.
For redactions in publicly filed documents: file redacted version publicly and unredacted version with highlights under seal, both related to the motion.
Party seeking to file sealed materials must notify opposing party to file a letter within 3 days explaining the need for sealing.
Parties unable to file sealed documents electronically through ECF must move for leave to file on paper.
Request to file redacted/sealed documents must be made by letter explaining reasons and legal basis.
Sealed/redacted filings must be filed electronically through ECF system following specific standing order and ECF rules.
Motion to seal must be filed publicly and explain reasons without including confidential information.
Supporting papers for seal motions may be filed under seal or redacted only as necessary.
Proposed sealed document must be contemporaneously filed under seal and electronically related to the motion.
For redaction approval, file redacted version publicly and unredacted version under seal with highlights, both electronically related to motion.
Parties must avoid including sensitive information unless necessary in submissions.
All redactions or sealing of public court filings require Court approval except for permitted categories.
Redactions must be narrowly tailored and consistent with public access presumption.
Court reviews each proposed redaction individually.
Parties' consent or confidentiality agreements alone don't justify sealing.
File redacted document version on ECF.
File letter-motion seeking leave to redact if redactions require Court approval.
For sealed exhibits, file main document on ECF with 'SEALED' placeholder page and simultaneous letter-motion seeking leave.
For entire sealed documents, email unredacted copy to chambers with letter-motion explaining sealing justification; no ECF filing initially.
Sealed/redacted motions must comply with Rule 9.
Parties may redact sensitive information and information requiring caution without court approval, following specific formatting rules.
Redactions or sealing of public court filings require court approval unless permitted by Rule 9.A.
Parties must meet and confer with opposing parties before seeking to file sealed or redacted documents.
Sealed documents require a letter-motion filed in public view, with the sealed document filed separately under seal on ECF.
Redacted documents require a letter-motion filed in public view, with the redacted version publicly filed and the unredacted version filed under seal on ECF.
Parties unable to file electronically under seal may email letter-motions to chambers with specific formatting requirements.
Procedures for filing sealed/redacted documents require meeting and confer, specific filing methods, and notification requirements.
Meet and confer required before filing sealed/redacted materials; opposing parties must respond within 3 days if requested by another party.
Sealed documents must be filed on ECF with public motion explaining reasons, supporting papers filed separately, and proposed sealed document filed under seal and related to motion.
Redacted documents require public motion explaining reasons, public filing with proposed redactions, and sealed filing of unredacted version with redactions highlighted.
Paper filing of sealed documents requires motion for leave of court if unable to comply with ECF requirements.
Sealed documents must be filed electronically on CM/ECF.
Sealed filings must comply with ECF Rules and Instructions.
Motions for sealed filings must be filed electronically.
Motions to seal must be filed publicly and explain reasons without confidential info.
Redacted documents must be contemporaneously filed publicly in ECF.
Parties unable to file electronically must move for leave to file traditionally.
Motions for sealed filings must be filed electronically per standing order 19-mc-00583.
Motions to seal must be filed publicly and explain reasons without confidential info.
Sealed documents must be contemporaneously filed under seal and related to motion.
Summary docket text must be public and exclude confidential information.
For redactions, file public redacted version and sealed unredacted version with highlights.
Unredacted documents must be filed under seal on paper if sealing application is granted
All settlement conference communications are strictly confidential, off the record, inadmissible at trial, and may not be used in discovery.
Permission required to file redacted or sealed submissions.
Redacted version must be filed on ECF unless entire document is sealed.
Unredacted copy must be emailed to Chambers; courtesy copy if over 20 pages.
Redacted information must be highlighted in unredacted copy.
Protective orders requiring sealing must be supported by competent evidence showing sealing is essential and narrowly tailored.
Parties must move for permission to file materials under seal contemporaneously with the filing.
File redacted versions on ECF and unredacted copies to Chambers when seeking to seal materials.
Unredacted exhibits over 100 pages must be submitted to Chambers on CD.
Parties must move for permission to file under seal contemporaneously, file redacted versions on ECF with unredacted copy to Chambers, and submit large exhibits (over 100 pages) on CD.
Sealing requires a motion supported by competent evidence showing it is essential to preserve higher values and is narrowly tailored.
Supporting papers may be filed under seal or redacted only as necessary to protect confidential information.
Sealed documents must be contemporaneously filed under seal in ECF and electronically related to the motion.
Sealed letters must follow ECF sealing procedures.
For redactions in publicly filed documents, file redacted version publicly and unredacted version under seal with highlights.
Parties unable to file electronically under seal must move for leave to file on paper.
Sealed letters must follow the Electronic Filing Under Seal procedure in Section 3.
FRCP 5.2 information must be redacted without prior court approval.
Motions for sealed/redacted filings must be filed via ECF per standing order 19-mc-00583.
Sealed documents must be filed contemporaneously in ECF with public docket text that excludes confidential information.
To request redaction approval, file redacted version publicly and unredacted version with highlights under seal.
Redacted pages must be filed under seal and a marked copy delivered to the Court at sentencing.
Sealed letters in civil/miscellaneous cases must follow Paragraph 3 procedures.
Certain sensitive information (SSN, minor children names, DOBs, financial account numbers) must be redacted without court approval per FRCP 5.2.
Motions for approval of sealed/redacted filings must be filed electronically through ECF system per standing order 19-mc-00583 and ECF Rules sections 6 and 21.
Proposed sealed document must be contemporaneously filed under seal in ECF and electronically related to motion; summary docket text public but must exclude confidential information.
Redacted documents must be publicly filed with proposed redactions and unredacted version filed under seal with highlights
Motion required for leave to file sealed documents on paper instead of ECF
Certain sensitive information must be redacted from public filings without court approval.
Motions for sealed/redacted filings must be filed electronically through ECF.
Motions for sealed filings must be filed publicly with non-confidential explanations.
Proposed sealed documents must be filed under seal and related to the motion.
For redactions in public filings, file redacted version publicly and unredacted version under seal.
Submit sealed/redacted documents, motion, and supporting papers in paper form by hand delivery or mail.
Proposed redactions must be highlighted in paper filings.
Sealed/redacted filings require electronic filing through ECF with motion.
Motions to seal must be filed publicly with reasons, excluding confidential info.
Supporting papers must be filed electronically, may be sealed/redacted as needed.
Proposed sealed documents must be filed under seal and related to the motion.
For redactions, file public version with redactions and sealed unredacted version.
Sensitive information must be redacted from public filings per FRCP 5.2 without prior court permission.
Motions for sealed/redacted filings must be submitted through ECF per standing order 19-mc-583.
Confidential materials may be redacted or filed under seal only with Court direction or as required by FRCP 5.2.
Parties must discuss in good faith whether confidential materials need to be filed under seal.
Sealed/redacted filings require letter-motion filed electronically through ECF system
Motion to seal must be filed publicly and explain reasons without confidential info
Supporting papers for seal motion may be filed under seal or redacted as needed
Proposed sealed document must be filed under seal and related to motion in ECF
For redactions in public filings, file redacted version publicly and unredacted under seal
Pro se litigants unable to file electronically must mail/hand-deliver sealed submissions to Pro Se Intake Unit
If seal motion denied in part, refile with modified redactions as directed by Court
Court will file under seal clean unredacted pages for approved redactions
Court permission required to file documents under seal.
Sealed/redacted documents must be submitted by hand delivery or email to chambers
Motion to seal must be filed publicly with reasons, without confidential info
Redacted documents must be filed in public view on ECF system
Supporting papers must be filed electronically, may be sealed/redacted as needed
Redacted pages must be filed under seal; send redacted copy to chambers and hand up at sentencing.
Application required for redactions beyond 11 Privacy Policy categories.
Parties must follow Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 5.2 and S.D.N.Y. ECF Privacy Policy for redactions and sealing.
Two categories of information can be redacted without court approval: sensitive information and information requiring caution.
Sensitive information categories that can be redacted without court approval include SSNs (last 4 digits), minor children's names (initials), DOBs (year only), account numbers (last 4 digits), and home addresses (city/state only).
Six categories of information requiring caution can be redacted without court approval: medical records, employment history, individual financial information, proprietary/trade secret information, and information about cooperation with government.
All redactions or sealing of public court filings require court approval except for the eleven categories identified in the Privacy Policy.
Redactions or sealing must be narrowly tailored to serve the justifying purpose and consistent with the presumption of public access to judicial documents.
Parties' consent or confidentiality agreements alone are not valid bases to overcome the presumption of public access to judicial documents.
Parties must meet and confer with opposing parties or third parties seeking confidential treatment to narrow the scope of sealing/redaction requests.
If filing under seal/redacted form due to opposing party/third party request, the filing party must notify them to file a letter explaining the need within three business days.
To file a document wholly under seal, parties must file a letter-motion following Standing Order 19-MC-583 and S.D.N.Y. ECF Rules Section 6.
The letter-motion seeking to file under seal must be filed in public view, explain reasons for sealing, and exclude confidential information.
The proposed sealed document must be contemporaneously filed under seal on ECF with appropriate restrictions and electronically related to the motion or relevant court order.
Summary docket text will be open to public inspection but not the sealed document itself, and should exclude confidential information.
To file a document in redacted form, parties must file a letter-motion seeking leave.
Sealed filings must comply with ECF Rules and Instructions; Court will not file non-compliant documents.
Parties unable to file electronically under seal must move for leave to file traditionally on paper.
Motions for sealed/redacted filings must be filed electronically via ECF.
Sealed filing motions must be public, explain reasons, and supporting papers filed electronically under seal or redacted.
Sealed documents must be filed under seal in ECF and related to motion; docket text must be public and non-confidential.
For redactions in public filings, file redacted version publicly and unredacted version under seal with highlights.
Motions for sealed/redacted filings must be filed electronically via ECF.
Sealed filing motions must be public, explain reasons, and supporting papers filed electronically under seal or redacted.
Redacted documents must be filed publicly in ECF when seeking permission to redact.
Unredacted documents must be filed under seal on paper if application is granted.
Sensitive information (SSN, minor names, DOB, account numbers) must be redacted without court approval.
Sealed/redacted filing motions must be filed electronically via ECF per standing order 19-mc-00583.
Proposed sealed documents must be contemporaneously filed under seal and electronically related to motion.
Redaction requests require public filing with proposed redactions and sealed filing of unredacted version with highlights.
Certain sensitive information must be redacted without prior court approval per FRCP 5.2.
Motions to seal must be public, explain reasons, and not include the confidential information itself.
Sealed documents must be filed under seal in ECF and linked to the motion.
For redaction motions, file redacted version publicly and unredacted version under seal with highlights via ECF.
Redacted filings under seal require letter to Chambers with highlighted proposed redactions; hard copy if over 25 pages.
Redacted pages from sentencing documents must be filed under seal
Redactions beyond specified categories require court approval and email to chambers
Meet and confer required before filing sealed/redacted documents.
Letter-motion required for sealed/redacted filings on ECF.
Unredacted copy with highlighted redactions must be emailed to Chambers and Courtroom Deputy when filing redacted documents.
Sensitive information categories: SSNs (last 4 digits), minor children names (initials), DOBs (year only), account numbers (last 4 digits), home addresses (city/state only).
All redactions or sealing of public court filings require Court approval except for permitted categories.
File the redacted version of the document on ECF.
If seeking leave to redact, file letter-motion on ECF simultaneously with redacted document.
Unredacted letter-motion must be emailed to chambers when seeking leave to file sealed/redacted documents
Sealed exhibits must be replaced with a single 'SEALED' page when filing main document on ECF
Entire sealed submissions must be emailed to chambers, not filed on ECF
Parties seeking to file sealed/redacted letter-motions should email unredacted copies to chambers and file redacted versions on ECF when possible.
To file sealed exhibits, file the main document on ECF with a 'SEALED' placeholder page replacing the exhibit, and simultaneously file a letter-motion seeking leave.
To seal an entire submission, do not file on ECF initially; instead email unredacted copy to chambers with a letter-motion explaining why sealing is justified.
Sealed filings require court approval via motion filed in public view with supporting papers.
Redaction requests require public filing with redactions and sealed filing of unredacted version with highlights.
Documents containing confidential information must be filed under seal, with producing party responsible for satisfying preconditions.
Confidential information must be returned or destroyed within 30 days after final judgment, except counsel may retain working files.
Sensitive information categories must be redacted or limited in sentencing submissions.
Redacted pages must be filed under seal; unredacted copy emailed to Chambers.
Redactions beyond 12 categories require application filed with sentencing submission.
Inadvertently produced privileged documents must be immediately returned or destroyed.
Two categories of information may be redacted without court approval: sensitive information (SSNs, minor children names, DOBs, account numbers, home addresses) and information requiring caution (personal identifying numbers, medical records, employment history, financial information, proprietary information, cooperation information).
Three-step process for filing documents with redactions
Procedure for filing fully sealed documents
Sensitive information (SSN, minors' names, DOBs, account numbers, addresses) must be redacted in sentencing submissions.
Pages with redacted material must be filed under seal and brought to sentencing.
Redactions beyond 11 Privacy Policy categories require court application.
Sealed/redacted filings require electronic filing through ECF system per standing order 19-mc-00583
Proposed sealed documents must be contemporaneously filed under seal in ECF and related to motion
Sealed/redacted filings require paper submission to Court and email to chambers
Certain sensitive information must be redacted without court approval.
Sealed filing motions must be filed electronically via ECF.
Sealed filing motions must be filed publicly with reasons.
Sensitive information covered by Rule 5.2 must be redacted from public filings without prior court permission.
Motions for sealing/redaction and related subject documents must be electronically filed in ECF under the referenced standing order and ECF instructions.
Supporting papers must be filed separately in ECF and may be sealed or redacted only as necessary to protect the sensitive information.
The proposed sealed document must be filed under seal at the same time as the motion and linked to that motion in ECF.
For redaction requests, the filer must publicly file a redacted version and file an unredacted highlighted version under seal in ECF.
A party that cannot file under seal electronically, or believes a document should not be e-filed, must move for leave to file on paper.
Court leave is required before any document may be filed under seal.
If sealing leave is granted, parties must file redacted copies with the Clerk.
When redactions are made, only the pages containing redacted material are filed under seal.
Redactions beyond the listed eleven categories require an application served and filed with the sentencing submission.
Obtain court leave before filing any document under seal; file redacted copies if granted.
Sentencing submissions must be filed on ECF with redactions and courtesy copies provided to the Court.
Certain sensitive information must be redacted from filings without court approval.
Motions for sealed filings must be filed electronically following specific procedures.
Motions for sealed filings must be public and explain reasons without including confidential information.
Redaction requires filing redacted version publicly and unredacted version under seal with highlights.
Opposing party must file letter explaining need to seal/redact within 3 days.
Motion required to file sealed documents on paper instead of ECF.
All redactions except those under FRCP 5.2 require court approval.
Letter-motions for sealed filings must be filed electronically through ECF.
Letter-motion must explain reasons for redactions/sealing without including confidential info.
File sealed document with redacted text highlighted, relate to letter-motion, keep docket summary public.
File redacted version on public docket, use placeholder if filing completely under seal.
Letter-motion must indicate confidential information from another party and may request 1-week delay.
Filing party must meet and confer with producing party; if producing party doesn't object, filing party must inform court within 1 week.
Producing party must file letter-motion in public and under seal within 1 week, with redacted and highlighted versions.
Failure to file letter within 1 week constitutes grounds for unsealing.
Filing party must re-file document with redactions consistent with producing party's proposal if approved.
Parties must move for leave to file by other means if unable to comply with ECF sealing requirements.
Documents cannot be filed under seal without court order; must include affidavit and legal memorandum addressing sealing standards and Lugosch v. Pyramid Co.
Sealed/redacted filings must be filed electronically through ECF system following court's standing order and ECF rules.
Motion for sealing must be filed publicly with reasons; supporting papers may be filed under seal/redacted as needed.
Proposed sealed document must be contemporaneously filed under seal in ECF and related to motion; summary docket text remains public.
For redactions in publicly filed documents: file redacted version publicly and unredacted version under seal with highlights, both electronically related to motion.
Service of sealed documents must be done outside ECF with proof of service filed in ECF
Sealed court orders must be served by first-class mail or other secure means approved by judge
Sealed documents cannot be served via CM/ECF; must use other appropriate means.
Sealed orders must be served in paper form by first-class mail or other secure means.
Protective order restrictions apply to confidential information in discovery responses.
Counsel may designate documents and information as confidential in good faith.
Confidential information may only be disclosed to requesting party and counsel.
Consultants/experts and witnesses must sign confidentiality agreement before accessing confidential information.
Confidential information must be returned or destroyed within 30 days after final judgment.
Documents containing confidential information must be filed under seal with court permission.
All redactions or sealing of public court filings require court approval, except for those permitted by Rule 9.A.
Parties must meet and confer with opposing parties before seeking to file sealed or redacted materials.
Sealed documents require letter-motion, public filing of motion, sealed filing on ECF, and email to chambers.
Redacted documents require letter-motion, public filing with redactions, sealed filing of unredacted copy, and email to chambers.
Letter-motions for alternative filing methods must be emailed to chambers with specific subject line requirements and page limits.
Ex parte TRO applications must be filed under seal on ECF or emailed to Chambers.
Two categories of information may be redacted without court approval: sensitive information (5 categories) and information requiring caution (6 categories).
All redactions or sealing of public court filings require court approval, except those permitted in Paragraph 11(A) or by protective order.
Parties must meet and confer before seeking to seal or redact documents, and notify opposing parties of the need to file within 3 business days.
Sealed documents require a public letter-motion explaining reasons, with the document filed under seal and electronically related to the motion.
Redacted documents require a public letter-motion, public filing of redacted version, and sealed filing of unredacted version with redactions highlighted.
TRO applications without notice must be filed under seal on ECF or by email to Chambers.
Parties must meet and confer before seeking leave to file sealed or redacted documents.
To file sealed documents, submit a public letter-motion explaining reasons, and file the sealed document contemporaneously under seal on ECF with appropriate restrictions.
To file redacted documents, submit a public letter-motion, publicly file the redacted version, and file an unredacted copy under seal with redactions highlighted.
Sensitive personal information must be redacted unless relevant to the case.
Sealed or confidential letters must be emailed to chambers as PDF with all counsel copied
All redactions or sealing of public court filings require Court approval.
Three-step process for filing documents with redactions: ECF filing, letter motion, and email to chambers.
For sealed exhibits, file main document on ECF with 'SEALED' page replacing exhibit.
For fully sealed documents, email unredacted copy to chambers with letter-motion seeking leave to seal.
Confidential materials may only be redacted/filed under seal with court direction
Sealed/redacted filings must be filed electronically through ECF system
Motion to seal must be filed publicly and explain reasons without including confidential info
Proposed sealed document must be filed under seal and related to motion
Redaction requests require public filing with redactions and sealed filing of unredacted version
Paper filing requires motion for leave if unable to comply with electronic filing
Sealed letters or those with sensitive/confidential info must be e-filed via ECF per standing order 19-MC-00583 and ECF Rules section 6.
Adjournment/extension requests with sensitive info must be e-filed via ECF per standing order 19-MC-00583 and ECF Rules §6.
Parties must not include sensitive personal information unless necessary, and may redact specified categories without court approval.
All sealing or redactions not covered by B.1 require court approval and must be narrowly tailored to justify secrecy.
Sealed documents must be filed under seal in ECF and related to the motion; public docket text must not include confidential information.
For motions to redact public documents: file redacted version publicly, file unredacted version under seal on ECF, both related to the motion.
Pro se parties must redact sensitive information or request permission to include it.
Parties may redact 11 categories of sensitive information without court application.
Court unlikely to seal trial evidence or summary judgment materials.
Certain sensitive information must be redacted without court approval per FRCP 5.2.
Parties unable to file electronically under seal must seek leave to file on paper.
PIN numbers, medical records, employment history, financial information, trade secrets, home addresses, and cooperation information may warrant motion for sealed/redacted filing.
Government may seek protective order to delay Brady/Giglio disclosure only in exceptional circumstances
Confidential information in discovery does not automatically require sealing; parties must follow court procedures for sealing requests.
Sealed or confidential letters may be emailed as text-searchable PDF to chambers with copies to all counsel.
Pro se parties must redact sensitive information or request permission to include it.
Letter motion must indicate opposing party's consent; confidential designations require joint submission.
Opposing counsel must have access to all communications unless filing ex parte.
14-day advance notice required before using opposing party's confidential information; 7-day window for opposing party to seek sealing.
Parties unable to file electronically under seal must seek court permission to file on paper.
Parties unable to file electronically may submit by email with specific subject line requirements and no substantive communications in email body.
Late designation of confidential information allowed within 14 days after discovery closes or document production.
Additional sensitive information categories that may require court approval for sealing.
Meet and confer with opposing parties before filing sealed/redacted materials.
Parties may redact 11 categories of sensitive information without court application.
Sealed or confidential letters may be emailed as text-searchable PDF to chambers with copies to all counsel.
Court unlikely to seal trial evidence or summary judgment materials.
Government may seek protective order to delay Brady/Giglio disclosure only in exceptional circumstances
Parties must redact sensitive information categories without court approval per FRCP 5.2 and SDNY Privacy Policy.
Parties unable to file under seal electronically must seek leave to file on paper.
Certain sensitive information must be redacted without court approval per FRCP 5.2.
Parties unable to file electronically under seal must seek leave to file on paper.
Additional sensitive information categories may require court approval for sealing/redaction.
Notify opposing parties of need to file explanation within 3 days when seeking sealed/redacted filing based on their request.
Request leave to file on paper if unable to comply with electronic filing requirements.
Sealed documents electronically filed are no longer accessible via ECF or PACER by non-court users
Access to electronically filed sealed documents requires copy from adversary or paper request to clerk
Service of sealed documents can no longer be done by electronic filing in ECF
Objections to confidentiality designations must be made in writing before trial
Requests for additional disclosure limits must be made in writing before trial
Court unlikely to seal discovery material introduced at trial or in summary judgment motions.
Parties must request paper copies of sealed documents from opposing counsel or clerk's office.
Confidential information in discovery does not automatically require sealing; parties must follow court procedures for sealing requests.
Sensitive/confidential letters must follow sealing procedures in Section 5.
Parties unable to file electronically must seek leave to file on paper.
Objections to confidentiality designations require written notice and may lead to joint call with court.
Discovery confidentiality designation alone does not justify sealing/redaction
No presumption of sealing for confidential discovery materials; follow individual judge's practices.
Sensitive information in adjournment requests requires redacted public filing and motion to seal
Objections to confidentiality designations require written notice and may lead to joint call with court.
No presumption of sealing for confidential discovery materials; follow individual judge's practices.
Court will not redact decisions unless parties prove material is truly confidential within 10 days
Parties unable to file electronically under seal must seek leave to file on paper.
Meet and confer required before seeking leave to file sealed/redacted materials
Must confer with adversary before seeking TRO unless Rule 65(b) requirements are met.
Additional sensitive information categories may require court approval for sealing/redaction.
Notify opposing parties of need to file explanation within 3 days when seeking sealed/redacted filing based on their request.
Request leave to file on paper if unable to comply with electronic filing requirements.
Sensitive/confidential letters must follow sealing procedures in Section 5.
Parties unable to file electronically must seek leave to file on paper.
Additional sensitive information (PINs, medical, employment, financial, trade secrets, addresses, cooperation) may require court approval for sealing.
Sensitive information should not be filed unless necessary and relevant; must be partially redacted if included.
Sealed filing motions must be public, explain reasons for sealing, and exclude confidential information.
Supporting papers for sealed motions must be separately filed and may be sealed/redacted only as necessary.
Meet and confer required before filing sealed/redacted materials.
Three-day notice required when sealing based on opposing party's request.
Motion required to file sealed materials on paper instead of ECF.
Certain categories require caution and may warrant motion for sealed filing.
Sealed or confidential letters must follow sealing procedures in section 4.A-B.
Sealed or sensitive letters may be emailed as text-searchable PDFs with specific subject line requirements.
Redactions and sealing beyond the permitted categories require Court approval and must be narrowly tailored.
Parties unable to file electronically under seal must seek court permission to file on paper.
Late designation of confidential information allowed within 14 days after discovery closes or document production.
Additional sensitive information may require motion for sealing approval.
Sensitive information should only be included if necessary and relevant.
Parties may redact specified sensitive and cautionary categories without applying to the Court.
Additional sensitive information categories that may require court approval for sealing.
Meet and confer with opposing parties before filing sealed/redacted materials.
Redactions must be narrowly tailored and consistent with public access presumption.
14-day advance notice required before using opposing party's confidential information; 7-day window for opposing party to seek sealing.
Parties unable to file electronically under seal must seek court permission to file on paper.
Sealed documents electronically filed are no longer accessible via ECF or PACER by non-court users
Access to electronically filed sealed documents requires copy from adversary or paper request to clerk
Service of sealed documents can no longer be done by electronic filing in ECF
Parties must request paper copies of sealed documents from opposing counsel or clerk's office.
Parties unable to file electronically may submit by email with specific subject line requirements and no substantive communications in email body.
Parties unable to file sealed documents via ECF may submit by email as text-searchable PDF with case caption and docket number in subject line; substantive communications belong in the letter only.
Sensitive information in adjournment requests requires redacted public filing and motion to seal
Certain sensitive information must be redacted from public filings without court approval per FRCP 5.2.
Protective order remains binding after litigation termination.
Two categories of information may be redacted without court approval: sensitive information and information requiring caution.
Sensitive information categories that may be redacted without court approval.
Six categories of information requiring caution may be redacted without court approval.
Sealed documents filed under seal are only accessible by the Court, not the parties.
Redactions/sealing must be narrowly tailored and consistent with public access presumption.
Parties' consent or confidentiality agreements alone don't justify sealing.
Certain sensitive information must be redacted from public filings without court approval.
Civil adjournment requests with sensitive/confidential information must be filed on ECF using sealed filing procedures.
Redactions/sealing must be narrowly tailored and consistent with public access presumption.
Redactions required by FRCP 5.2 (sensitive information) do not require court approval.
Sealed or confidential letters may be emailed as PDF attachments with copies to all counsel.
Rule 5.2 redactions may be made without court application.
Certain sensitive information must be redacted from public filings without court approval.
Denied sealing/redaction motions result in order to re-file documents in public view while keeping prior submission sealed.
Sealed documents are not officially filed until submitted to Sealed Records Department or ECF
Protective orders must include provision for court approval of sealed filings.
Rule 5.2 requires redaction of sensitive information from public court filings.
Redactions/sealing must be narrowly tailored and consistent with public access presumption.
Parties' consent or confidentiality agreements alone don't justify sealing.
Sealed/sensitive letters may be emailed as PDF to chambers with copies to counsel.
Protective order remains binding after litigation termination.
Letters containing sensitive/confidential information may be filed under seal.
Additional categories of information requiring caution may be redacted without Court approval
Documents withheld on privilege/work product grounds follow FRCP 26(b)(5) provisions.
Parties may designate documents/responses as confidential in good faith to protect client interests.
Confidential information may only be disclosed to requesting party, counsel, and necessary employees.
Supporting papers for sealed motions may be filed under seal or redacted as necessary.
Rule 5.2 of Federal Rules of Civil Procedure describes sensitive information that must be redacted from public court filings without seeking prior permission from the Court.
Redactions of sensitive information categories don't require court approval.
Certain redactions do not require court approval
Civil adjournment requests with sensitive/confidential information must be filed on ECF using sealed filing procedures.
Redactions/sealing must be narrowly tailored and consistent with public access presumption.
Court may grant leave to redact or seal documents beyond sensitive information.
Certain sensitive information must be redacted from public filings without court approval per FRCP 5.2.
Supporting papers for sealed filings may be filed under seal or redacted as needed.
Meet and confer with opposing parties before seeking sealed/redacted filing approval.
Bring TRO application to court at mutually agreeable time when adversary notified but doesn't consent.
Communications will be docketed on public ECF unless sealed.
Court may grant leave to redact or file documents under seal in limited circumstances.
Redacted or sealed documents are generally shared with other parties.
Parties may redact 11 categories of sensitive information without court approval.
No leave required for redactions under Fed. R. Civ. P. 5.2
Inadvertent disclosure of privileged materials does not waive privilege.
Written agreement between parties allows filing confidential materials without redaction.
Two categories of information may be redacted without Court approval: sensitive information and information requiring caution.
Information requiring caution: personal identifying numbers, medical records, employment history, financial information, proprietary/trade secret info, cooperation with government.
Redactions or sealing must be narrowly tailored and consistent with presumption of public access to judicial documents.
Parties' consent or confidentiality agreements are not sufficient to overcome presumption of public access.
Letter-motion must explain purpose of redactions and why they meet standards.
Draft letter-motion in form that can be filed publicly.
Inadvertent disclosure of privileged materials does not waive privilege.
Documents withheld on privilege/work product grounds follow FRCP 26(b)(5) provisions.
Parties may designate documents/responses as confidential in good faith to protect client interests.
Confidential information may only be disclosed to requesting party, counsel, and necessary employees.
Certain sensitive information categories may be redacted without Court approval
Redactions and sealing must be narrowly tailored and consistent with public access presumption
Parties may redact 5 categories of sensitive information and 6 categories of caution information without Court approval.
Parties may choose electronic or traditional filing methods for sealed documents.
FRCP 5.2 requires redaction of sensitive information without court approval.
Supporting papers may be filed under seal or redacted as necessary.
Court records and dockets presumptively open to public inspection.
Public access presumption rebuttable if closure essential and narrowly tailored.
Supporting papers for sealed filings may be filed under seal or redacted as needed.
Meet and confer with opposing parties before seeking sealed/redacted filing approval.
Bring TRO application to court at mutually agreeable time when adversary notified but doesn't consent.
Written agreement between parties allows filing confidential materials without redaction.
FRCP 5.2 requires redaction of sensitive information without court approval.
Certain redactions do not require court approval
Sealed or confidential letters may be emailed as PDF attachments with copies to all counsel.
Two categories of information may be redacted without Court approval: sensitive information and information requiring caution.
Information requiring caution: personal identifying numbers, medical records, employment history, financial information, proprietary/trade secret info, cooperation with government.
Redactions or sealing must be narrowly tailored and consistent with presumption of public access to judicial documents.
Parties' consent or confidentiality agreements are not sufficient to overcome presumption of public access.
Letter-motion must explain purpose of redactions and why they meet standards.
Draft letter-motion in form that can be filed publicly.
Parties may redact sensitive personal information and information requiring caution from public filings without prior Court approval.
Redactions of sensitive information categories don't require court approval.
Sealed/sensitive letters may be emailed as PDF to chambers with copies to counsel.
Redaction of sensitive categories allowed without court application.
Supporting papers for sealed motions may be filed under seal or redacted.
Protective orders must include provision for court approval of sealed filings.
Letters containing sensitive/confidential information may be filed under seal.
Supporting papers for sealed motions may be filed under seal or redacted as necessary.
Rule 5.2 requires redaction of sensitive information from public court filings.
Parties may redact sensitive information and information requiring caution without court approval, following specific guidelines.
Court may grant leave to redact or seal documents beyond sensitive information.
Certain categories of information may be redacted without court approval.
Central District of California
View all rules for CDCA.Under seal filings must comply with LR 79-5.2 and show good cause with legal authority.
File both sealed and redacted versions for confidential documents
Meet and confer required before filing sealing application
Sealed documents must be identified by first-listed defendant and case number only on outer envelope.
Sealed documents with confidential titles require two cover sheets: generic title first, full title second.
Under seal documents must be placed together in manila envelope labeled “UNDER SEAL.”
Sealing requires showing good cause for non-dispositive motions and compelling reasons for dispositive motions.
Documents must be filed with redactions unless redaction is not feasible; redactions must be highlighted in sealed version.
Written application and prior court approval required for filing documents under seal.
Protective Orders or Confidentiality Orders do not authorize sealing; applications based solely on them will be denied.
Strict compliance required with Local Rule 79-5 for sealing documents.
Must provide specific justification for each document sought to be sealed.
File complete sealed version and redacted public version when possible.
Each item must be individually justified for sealing.
Meet and confer required before filing sealing application.
Protective orders must be submitted to Magistrate Judge and cannot allow sealing without further Court order.
Must comply with Local Rule 79-5 and meet and confer before filing application to seal.
Must identify factual/legal justification for 'good cause' or 'compelling reasons' to file under seal.
Sealing applications require good cause and usually need redacted versions filed publicly.
Sealing applications must follow Local Rule 79-5 and Judge Staton's electronic filing guide.
Public access presumption applies; good cause needed for non-dispositive, compelling reasons for dispositive motions.
Sealed documents must comply with L. Cr. R. 49-1 and justify confidentiality over public access.
Meet and confer required 7 days before sealing application; non-proposing party must respond within 2 days.
Sealing applications must include meet and confer dates and method; missing information results in denial without prejudice.
Sentencing documents may be filed under seal only when strictly necessary, with redacted version justifying deletions.
Application and proposed order are public; declaration and sealed documents are not.
Only specific sealed docket entries create sealed documents.
Redacted documents must have 'REDACTED' in caption and docket text.
Paper filing of sealed documents requires sealed envelopes and PDF on CD.
Application and redacted documents are public; declaration and unredacted documents are sealed.
Court order required to file any sealed document; Application for Leave to File Under Seal needed if no order obtained.
Document upload screen must turn red to confirm filing under seal.
Sealed documents must be linked to an Order granting leave to file under seal.
Sealed documents must be linked to an order granting leave to file under seal.
Document caption must be entered without confidential information.
Do not use back button after clicking next during sealed document filing.
Sealed documents must be served by printing NEF and serving sealed document on opposing counsel.
Local Rule requires court order to authorize filing of any sealed document.
Sealed documents must be served by other means despite NEF distribution.
Sealed Opposition event requires prior court order granting leave to file under seal.
Sealed documents must be served by other means; print and serve NEF with sealed document.
Application for Leave for In Camera Review is publicly visible; confidential documents must be delivered directly to judge's chambers if granted.
Protective order alone does not justify sealing pleadings or documents.
Local Rule 79-5 governs sealing applications with strong presumption of access to court records.
Redacted versions should be filed separately when possible; unredacted versions filed under seal.
Each item must be individually justified for sealing; blanket claims denied; meet and confer required.
Protective orders must be submitted to magistrate; cannot allow sealing without court order.
Sealed chambers copies must be in manilla envelope labeled 'UNDER SEAL'.
Sealed submissions must follow Judge Blumenfeld's pilot program procedures on his webpage.
Sealing requires compliance with Local Rule 79-5 and attached PDF guide.
File Notice of Manual Filing on public docket, then email under-seal documents to CRD.
Email two versions: one with yellow highlights for sealable portions, one unhighlighted for filing.
Granted seal applications result in under-seal filing; filer must serve and file proof of service within 24 hours.
File public redacted versions within 3 days of Court order; redactions limited to previously identified portions.
File both complete and redacted versions when possible.
Redacted portions must be bracketed and highlighted on unredacted copies.
Each sealed item must be individually justified; blanket claims not allowed.
Applications to file under seal must comply with Local Rule 79-5 and justify confidentiality.
Meet and confer required at least 7 days before filing sealing application.
Non-proposing party must confirm position within 2 days after meet and confer.
Unredacted documents must be filed provisionally under seal.
Provisional seal documents must have "Unredacted" or "Sealed" as first word in title.
Confidential/privileged information in provisional seal documents must be highlighted or bracketed.
If sealing granted, unredacted document must be filed as separate docket entry.
Redacted/omitted information must be highlighted or bracketed in granted seal documents.
Redacted version must be filed as separate docket entry if sealing granted.
Redacted documents must have "Redacted" as first word in title.
Confidential/privileged information must be blacked out or document marked as fully sealed.
Under seal filings require compliance with L. Cr. R. 49-1, justification for confidentiality, and a 7-day meet-and-confer process with 2-day response deadline; applications must document the meet-and-confer process.
Sealing applications must specify action if denied: public filing, pickup within 24 hours, or destruction; uncollected documents destroyed after 24 hours.
Redacted documents must include the word 'redacted' in the title.
Sealed documents must clearly mark confidential/privileged information via highlighting and/or brackets.
File both complete and redacted versions when partial redaction possible.
Redacted portions must be bracketed and highlighted on unredacted copies.
Each item must be individually justified for sealing; blanket claims not allowed.
Under seal filings must comply with Local Criminal Rule 49-1 and justify confidentiality over public access.
Non-confidential documents should be redacted rather than fully sealed when possible.
Each item must be individually justified for sealing; blanket confidentiality claims are not permitted.
Parties must meet and confer before filing an application to seal.
Applications to file documents under seal must follow L.R. 79-5.2.2; no chambers copies required for sealed applications.
Sealed document applications must identify confidential portions and justify sealing over public access.
Protective order-only sealing applications require specific declaration or will be denied.
Ex Parte Application to Seal required; submit PDF versions to chambers email plus Word/WordPerfect proposed order.
Government must file witness statements under seal at least 5 days before trial.
Trade secret cases require special identification procedures.
Protective orders for discovery must be submitted to Magistrate Judge; cannot authorize sealing for dispositive motions or trial without court order.
Local Rule 79-5 governs applications to file documents under seal.
File complete sealed version and redacted public version when possible.
Each item must be individually justified for sealing; blanket claims will be denied.
Applications to file under seal must comply with Local Rule 79-5 and 79-5.2.2.
Each document sought to be sealed requires individual justification showing good cause or compelling reasons.
Parties must file both a complete sealed version and a redacted public version of documents.
Parties must meet and confer before filing an application to seal.
Strict compliance with Local Rule 79-5 required for sealing applications.
Motion to seal must state which standard applies and explain why.
Must provide specific justification for each document to be sealed, not blanket statements.
File complete sealed version and redacted public version, omitting only authorized portions.
Sealing must be justified for each item; blanket confidentiality claims will be denied.
Parties must meet and confer before filing sealing application.
Filing under seal requires compliance with Local Rule 79-5.1 and this Order.
Written request required to disclose HIGHLY CONFIDENTIAL – ATTORNEY EYES ONLY to in-house counsel; SOURCE CODE not authorized.
Written request with detailed expert information required to disclose HIGHLY CONFIDENTIAL material to experts.
Filing under seal requires court order or designator permission; must comply with Local Rule 79-5; designation alone insufficient.
Meet and confer required 7 days before sealing application; opposing party must respond within 2 days.
Sealing application must include meet and confer dates/method or will be denied without prejudice.
Must justify sealing for each item; blanket confidentiality claims are not allowed.
Sealed filings require Court approval and compliance with Local Rule 79-5.2.2(a).
Sealed documents filed electronically must be served separately under FRCP 5, not through CM/ECF.
Sealed electronic filings require proof of service or declaration explaining why service is not required.
Sealed documents must be served manually per FRCP 5 and accompanied by Proof of Service or declaration.
Entirely sealed filings are not permitted unless the application shows redaction is infeasible.
Absent rule/statute authorization, sealed filing requires a written application and prior court approval.
Applications to seal based only on a protective or confidentiality order will be summarily denied.
A party seeking sealing must provide competent evidence supporting sealing.
Documents cannot be filed under seal in entirety unless redaction is not feasible; redactions must be highlighted
Documents cannot be filed under seal without written application and prior Court approval
Meet and confer 7 days before filing under seal, non-proposing party confirms within 2 days
Under seal application filed on public docket with proposed order and declaration
Unredacted documents filed under seal with "Unredacted" or "Sealed" in title, marked with highlighting/brackets
If granted, file unredacted version (marked) and redacted version (blacked out or page inserted)
Sealing applications require meet and confer 7 days prior to filing; non-proposing party must respond within 2 days after meet-and-confer.
Unredacted versions must be filed under seal with title prefix "Unredacted" or "Sealed"; confidential information must be marked via highlighting in color and/or brackets.
If sealing granted, must file both unredacted (under seal) and redacted (public) versions with specific title prefixes and marking requirements.
Procedure exists for filings under seal.
Must establish good cause or compelling reasons to file under seal.
Redact confidential portions instead of sealing entire documents when possible.
Each item must be individually justified for sealing; blanket claims will be denied.
Meet and confer required before filing application to seal.
Applications to seal must be filed at least two weeks before the motion.
Under seal filings require specific basis for protection, not just protective orders.
Sentencing documents may be filed under seal only when strictly necessary with redacted version.
Rejected documents will be destroyed unless retrieved within 5 days.
Limit number and volume of seal filings; strong presumption of access in civil cases.
Chambers copies will be destroyed if not picked up within 24 hours of seal denial.
Docket entries for sealed documents are public even if the document is sealed.
Warning message must be acknowledged during sealed document filing.
Sealing applications require good cause; most documents must be partially redacted.
Sealing requires good cause for non-dispositive motions, compelling reasons for dispositive motions.
Parties must follow Local Rule 79-5 and the Guide to Electronically Filing Under-Seal Documents when seeking leave to file under seal.
Sealing requires good cause for non-dispositive motions and compelling reasons for dispositive motions, with narrowly tailored relief.
Avoid sealing applications, declarations, and orders unless they contain sealable information; overbroad requests may be denied.
Meritless sealing requests may result in complete rejection.
Rejected documents will be destroyed unless retrieved from clerk within 5 days.
Document titles appear on public docket even when sealed.
Document titles appear on public docket even when sealed.
Protective orders cannot allow filing under seal without court order for dispositive motions, class certification, or trial.
Limit under seal filings to specific portions with valid basis; minimize number and volume.
Blanket confidentiality claims are prohibited; each item must be individually justified.
Strong presumption of access in civil actions; frivolous/overly broad sealing motions subject to sanctions.
Generic 'competitive harm' claims are almost always insufficient for sealing.
Overbroad sealing requests may be denied entirely and placed on public docket.
Applications with meritless sealing/redaction requests will be denied.
Redact confidential portions instead of sealing entire documents when possible.
Under seal filings should be limited to specific portions with valid basis; memoranda under seal are disfavored.
Limit under seal filings to specific portions; memoranda under seal are disfavored.
Proposed redactions must be highlighted in the under-seal version.
If the interested party misses the two-day declaration deadline, the filing party need not file an application to seal and may file publicly with a declaration of compliance.
Strong presumption of public access to civil case records; different standards for non-dispositive vs dispositive motions
Protective Orders or Confidentiality Orders do not permit under seal filings; applications based solely on these will be denied
Sentencing documents generally not under seal; file redacted version with explanation; seek leave for entire document under seal.
Sealed documents are not viewable but title appears on public docket.
Document titles will be public even if documents are sealed.
Sealed documents are restricted from viewing through NEF.
Sealed documents filed in CM/ECF are only viewable by the filing attorney and court personnel.
CM/ECF screen turns red when using sealed document events.
Service reminder must be reviewed during sealed document filing.
Denied seal applications result in deletion of emailed files; no public filing.
Use “in camera” for documents submitted solely for Court’s review; avoid “under seal” and “ex parte”.
In camera documents must be labeled “in camera” on first page; red text or highlighting encouraged.
Sealed documents may be unsealed later if legal standards require.
Paper copies and mandatory chambers copies not required for under-seal filings.
Sealed documents are not viewable by public, but entry title remains viewable.
Sealed filings are permitted.
Non-confidential documents should be redacted, not sealed, if feasible.
Counsel must carefully consider whether sealing or redaction is absolutely required.
Discovery cannot be withheld for confidentiality without court order; Standing Protective Order governs unless modified.
Sealed documents are not viewable by public, but titles appear on docket entries.
Sentencing documents generally public; under seal filings discouraged except for properly protected information with redacted version.
Local Rule 79-5 governs filing documents under seal.
Joint application to seal encouraged for multiple sealing requests.
Southern District of California
View all rules for SDCA.Motions to seal require specific document description and declaration of compelling reasons.
Proposed redactions must be highlighted or bracketed in sealed lodgment.
Must meet and confer before sealing based on another party's confidential designation.
Court limits sealing to only necessary sensitive material; submit separately
Submit motion to seal and documents to chambers for review before filing
Motion to seal and sealed documents must be submitted to chambers for pre-filing review; if denied, documents become publicly filed.
Sealing requests require specific document description and compelling reason declaration
Voluminous sealing requests (>5 docs or >25 redacted pages) require a table
Specific reasons required to file documents under seal; confidentiality designation alone is insufficient.
Meet and confer required before filing motion to seal based on another party's confidentiality designation.
Motion to seal must be filed at least 7 calendar days before non-discovery motion.
Designating party has 4 business days to file motion to seal after notice.
Confidential designation waived if motion to seal not filed within deadline.
Motion to seal must include description, legal analysis, supporting affidavits, and documents.
Motions to seal must be submitted to the Clerk's Office before filing the underlying documents for chambers review.
Redacted documents must be filed simultaneously with sealing motion.
Protective orders must include specific sealing language requirements.
Sealed filings must comply with ECF Manual Section 2.j and Local Rule 79.2.
Sealed filings require redacted version with specific title format.
Motion to seal must be filed before the judge who will rule on the associated motion.
Permission required to file confidential materials under seal
Sealing requires court order showing privilege or protectability
Must follow ECF Manual Section 2.j and Local Rule 79.2 for sealing
Must file public version with redactions and joint motion/ex parte application
Court limits sealing to only necessary sensitive material; submit separately
Submit motion to seal and documents to chambers for review before filing
Information subject to privilege claims may be presented to court under seal for determination.
Inadvertent disclosure of privileged information does not waive privilege if reasonable precautions were taken and prompt corrective action follows.
Protective orders must include advance approval requirement before filing sealed documents
Confidential settlements require 'good cause' showing and court findings before sealing.
Parties must provide specific document descriptions and affidavits showing good cause to obtain a sealing order.
Must file public redacted version of documents sought to be sealed; if sealing entire document, file slip sheet explaining.
Sealed motions must be hand-delivered to Clerk of Court with sealed documents and proposed order.
Emergency seal motions require contacting courtroom deputy for alternate delivery.
Sealed motions and protective orders should not be hand-delivered to chambers.
Redacted materials must be marked for sealing motions.
Grounds for sealing must be explained in table format.
Sealing motions must provide particularized explanations for each redaction.
Proposed redactions must be marked if disputes remain after meet-and-confer.
Stipulated protective orders must be filed as joint motions.
Sealed document applications must be served on opposing counsel and document custodian.
Opponents of sealed document applications must notify chambers before filing opposition.
Documents may only be filed under seal with court order and must include both unredacted and redacted versions.
Documents may only be filed under seal with court order.
Must comply with ECF Manual Section 2.j and Local Rule 79.2 for sealed filings.
Only 'Confidential' information may be redacted in sealed filings.
Redacted documents must be filed simultaneously with sealing motion.
Protective orders must include specific sealing language requirements.
Sealed filings must comply with ECF Manual Section 2.j and Local Rule 79.2.
Sealed filings require redacted version with specific title format.
Motion to seal must be filed before the judge who will rule on the associated motion.
Permission required to file confidential materials under seal
Sealing requires court order showing privilege or protectability
Must follow ECF Manual Section 2.j and Local Rule 79.2 for sealing
Must file public version with redactions and joint motion/ex parte application
Joint motions for non-model protective orders must include explanation and redlined changes.
Protective orders must include specific provisions for sealing documents and service requirements.
Lodging proposed protective orders in Word format by email to efile_Pettit@casd.uscourts.gov.
Strong presumption of public access; sealing requires specific justification beyond generic competitive harm.
Sealing requests must comply with Civil Local Rule 79.2 and ECF Manual Section 2.j.
Designating parties must file joinder within 4 business days and show protectability; confidentiality designation alone insufficient.
Opposition to sealing motions must be filed within 4 business days of service.
Motions to seal and sealed documents must comply with ECF Manual Section 2(j).
Documents may only be filed under seal with court order showing privileged or protectable information; sealing request limited to specific confidential portions.
Protective orders must include objection procedures for confidential designations with 7-day meet-and-confer requirement.
Filing under seal requires compliance with Local Rule 79.2 and ECF Manual Section 2(j).
Public version of sealed documents must be filed with only confidential/privileged information redacted.
Redacted documents must be filed simultaneously with motion to seal and lodging of unredacted documents.
Documents under seal must follow ECF Manual procedures; entire pleadings/attachments only if entire document meets sealing standard.
Redacted versions must be publicly filed unless entire document qualifies for sealing.
Applications to file under seal must address factual/legal basis for each redaction.
Unredacted versions must be lodged according to ECF Manual procedures.
Filing party must obtain legal basis for confidential designation from designating party before filing under seal.
Opposing parties must notify judge's chambers within one court day if opposing seal application.
Sealed motions must be hand-delivered to Clerk of Court with sealed documents and proposed order.
Emergency seal motions require contacting courtroom deputy for alternate delivery.
Sealed motions and protective orders should not be hand-delivered to chambers.
Documents filed under seal must be accompanied by a motion authorizing the sealing.
Motion to seal must describe documents to be sealed and include declarations showing compelling reason.
Sealed documents must be filed immediately in CM/ECF with specific formatting requirements.
Public redacted version must be filed simultaneously with motion to seal.
Meet and confer required before sealing documents with protective order designations; response due within 7 days.
Documents under seal must follow ECF Manual procedures; entire pleadings/attachments only if entire document meets sealing standard.
Redacted versions must be publicly filed unless entire document qualifies for sealing.
Applications to file under seal must address factual/legal basis for each redaction.
Unredacted versions must be lodged according to ECF Manual procedures.
Filing party must obtain legal basis for confidential designation from designating party before filing under seal.
Opposing parties must notify judge's chambers within one court day if opposing seal application.
Information subject to privilege claims may be presented to court under seal for determination.
Inadvertent disclosure of privileged information does not waive privilege if reasonable precautions were taken and prompt corrective action follows.
Protective orders must include advance approval requirement before filing sealed documents
Confidential settlements require 'good cause' showing and court findings before sealing.
Parties must provide specific document descriptions and affidavits showing good cause to obtain a sealing order.
Motion to seal required for any sealed filing.
Motion to seal must specify documents/categories and whether sealed in full or part.
Declarations required to demonstrate compelling reason for sealing.
Sealed documents must be lodged using ECF "Sealed Lodged Proposed Document" format.
Public redacted version required alongside sealed filing.
Slip sheet required for fully sealed documents.
Designating party has 7 days to respond to sealing motion.
Motion to seal must include description, legal standard, affidavits, and documents.
Must file public redacted version of documents sought to be sealed; if sealing entire document, file slip sheet explaining.
Redacted materials must be marked for sealing motions.
Grounds for sealing must be explained in table format.
Sealing motions must provide particularized explanations for each redaction.
Proposed redactions must be marked if disputes remain after meet-and-confer.
Materials submitted with a sealing motion must be marked for redaction in the provisionally sealed version.
Sealed filings require redacted public version and unredacted submission to chambers.
Parties must follow CASD ECF Policies for filing sealed documents.
Motion to seal must include description, legal standard, analysis, and supporting affidavits.
Redacted version must be publicly filed if entire document doesn't meet sealing standard.
Do not contact chambers for hearing date on motion to seal; use specific caption language.
Responses to motions to seal must be filed within 7 days.
Meet and confer required before sealing documents designated confidential or attorneys’ eyes only.
Documents filed under seal require a motion authorizing the sealing.
Motion to seal must describe documents to be sealed and whether in full or part.
Sealed documents must be filed in CM/ECF immediately after motion to seal.
Sealed documents must be lodged in full or with yellow-highlighted redactions.
Public version of sealed documents must be filed with only confidential/privileged information redacted.
Slip sheet required for fully sealed documents.
Partially sealed documents must be filed with confidential information redacted.
Designating party has 7 days to respond to sealing motion.
Motions to seal and sealed documents must comply with ECF Manual Section 2(j).
Documents may only be filed under seal with court order showing privileged or protectable information; sealing request limited to specific confidential portions.
Protective orders must include objection procedures for confidential designations with 7-day meet-and-confer requirement.
Filing under seal requires compliance with Local Rule 79.2 and ECF Manual Section 2(j).
Public version of sealed documents must be filed with only confidential/privileged information redacted.
Redacted documents must be filed simultaneously with motion to seal and lodging of unredacted documents.
Sealing standard strictly applied; redactions must be narrowly tailored.
There is a presumptive right of public access; sealing is limited to documents necessary to protect sensitive information.
Denied motions to seal result in immediate public filing on CM/ECF.
Party seeking protective order must show good cause with specific need.
Good cause requires showing harm or prejudice from disclosure.
Broad allegations without specifics don't satisfy Rule 26(c) test.
Embarrassment or minor harm insufficient for sealing.
Umbrella/blanket protective orders can be challenged as they lack document-by-document review.
Motions to seal are strongly discouraged; agreement alone insufficient; must be narrowly tailored to specific portions requiring protection.
Motions to seal entire pleadings or briefs strongly disfavored; granted only in extraordinary circumstances.
Motions to seal documents are strongly discouraged.
Motions to seal documents are strongly discouraged.
Party seeking protective order must show good cause with specific need.
Good cause requires showing harm or prejudice from disclosure.
Broad allegations without specifics don't satisfy Rule 26(c) test.
Embarrassment or minor harm insufficient for sealing.
Umbrella/blanket protective orders can be challenged as they lack document-by-document review.
Strict standard applied for sealing documents.
Sealing motions must be narrowly tailored to specific documents/portions.
No response to sealing motion may result in public filing.
Motions to seal are strongly discouraged; agreement alone insufficient; must be narrowly tailored to specific portions requiring protection.
Motions to seal entire pleadings or briefs strongly disfavored; granted only in extraordinary circumstances.
Entire pleadings/attachments should not be sealed unless entire document meets sealing standard.
Meet and confer required when sealing based on protective order designations.
Presumptive right of public access to court records.
Court may seal documents to protect sensitive information.
Trade secrets and confidential commercial information may be protected from disclosure.
Rule 26 allows sealing of discovery materials only in limited circumstances.
Court must balance interests even when good cause exists.
Umbrella protective orders covering trade secrets or other confidential information are permitted if judge verifies good faith and allows challenges.
Judge must review any request to seal records to protect public interest.
Parties can either agree on trade secret definition or list specific document categories with harm arguments for protective orders.
Protective orders with good cause determination override federal common law right of access.
Courts have broad discretion to fashion protective orders without presumption of public access.
Protective orders should include provisions for handling sealed documents after case closure.
Use Judge Pettit's model protective order available on court website.
Protective orders must include provisions for disposition of confidential/sealed materials after case conclusion.
Court may modify protective order terms for good cause or interest of justice, with parties preferring advance notice.
Trade secrets and confidential commercial information may be protected from disclosure.
Rule 26 allows sealing of discovery materials only in limited circumstances.
Court must balance interests even when good cause exists.
Umbrella protective orders covering trade secrets or other confidential information are permitted if judge verifies good faith and allows challenges.
Judge must review any request to seal records to protect public interest.
Parties can either agree on trade secret definition or list specific document categories with harm arguments for protective orders.
Protective orders with good cause determination override federal common law right of access.
Courts have broad discretion to fashion protective orders without presumption of public access.
Protective orders must include provisions for disposition of confidential/sealed materials after case conclusion.
Court may modify protective order terms for good cause or interest of justice, with parties preferring advance notice.
Northern District of California
View all rules for NDCA.Sealing requests must include prior request history and unredacted chambers copy with highlighted confidential material.
Strict compliance required with Civil Local Rule 79-5 for sealed documents.
Sealed documents must be highlighted to show proposed redactions.
Motions to seal must include a chart with specific columns.
Sealing requires compliance with Civil Local Rule 79-5 with judge-specific modifications.
Motion to seal must specify which standard applies and provide explanation.
Must provide specific justification for sealing each document; generic 'competitive harm' claims insufficient.
Proposed sealing order must include table with docket numbers, document names, specific portions, and sealing reasons with citations.
Revised redacted/unredacted versions required for declarations seeking less extensive sealing than administrative motions.
Documents are presumptively public; sealing requires compliance with Local Rule 79-5
Any request to file under seal must comply with Civil Local Rule 79-5.
Sealed filings require unredacted chambers copies with redactions highlighted.
Protective orders should use model orders when practicable; redline required if differing from model.
Sealing motions must comply with Local Rule 79-5 and provide specific arguments for sealing.
Highlight redactions for partially sealed documents and label entirely sealed documents.
Multiple sealing motions must be consolidated into a single joint motion.
Sealed documents filed with Oakland Clerk's Office; chambers copy to San Francisco.
Administrative motion to seal required before filing sealed documents.
Sealed documents require paper and electronic courtesy copies.
Filing party must justify sealing with specific showing and narrow redactions.
Proposed redactions must be highlighted on unredacted document.
Sealed documents filed with Oakland Clerk's Office; chambers copy to San Francisco.
For sealed attachments, upload only unredacted versions to Box.com with dual docket numbering.
Sealed exhibit requests must specify portions, explain narrow tailoring, and why other measures insufficient
Sealed documents must follow Criminal Local Rules and be lodged with SF Clerk's Office with chambers copy.
Sealing requests must include prior request history and unredacted chambers copy.
For administrative motions to seal, provide chambers with unredacted documents showing proposed redactions highlighted.
Unredacted chambers copy with highlighted confidential material required for sealed filings.
Sealed documents require paper and electronic courtesy copies with highlighted redactions.
Parties must provide specific justification for sealing documents and narrowly tailored redactions.
Documents cannot be filed under seal without court order showing good cause.
Strict compliance required with Civil Local Rule 79-5, except for 79-5(d)(2).
Sealing requests must include prior request history and unredacted chambers copy.
For administrative motions to seal, provide chambers with unredacted documents showing proposed redactions highlighted.
Documents must comply with Civil Local Rule 79-5 for sealing, with modifications for Judge Donato's cases.
Declaration must establish document is privileged, trade secret, or otherwise protected under law.
Must identify 'good cause' or 'compelling reasons' standard and provide specific reasons for sealing.
Proposed order must include table with reasons and citations for each sealed item.
Designating Party must include new proposed order with reasons in tabular format.
Declarations claiming confidentiality to non-parties must be served on those non-parties.
Non-parties have 4 days from declaration service to file their own declaration.
Sealed document portions must be clearly marked on unredacted versions.
Combined motion to seal must identify superseded prior motions.
Failure to follow combined motion procedure results in denial without prejudice.
Sealed documents must follow Criminal Local Rules and be lodged with SF Clerk's Office with chambers copy.
Sealing motions must include a chart with ECF/exhibit number, document description, portions to seal, and reasons for sealing.
Filing party must refile public versions within 7 days if Court's redactions are narrower than current public versions.
Sealed briefs/exhibits must be delivered unredacted with yellow highlighting; no redacted copies to Court.
For sealed attachments, only unredacted versions should be uploaded to Box.com.
Strict compliance with Civil Local Rule 79-5 is required, except for 79-5(d)(2).
Documents filed under seal must be highlighted to show proposed redactions.
Motions to seal must comply with Civil Local Rule 79-5 and this Standing Order.
Separate Motion to Seal required for each pleading; omnibus motions prohibited.
Redacted motion must be filed as separate ECF entry when sealing a motion.
Do not submit redacted versions as chambers copies; unredacted copies must indicate sealed portions.
For sealed filings, submit only unredacted version; indicate sealed portions.
Documents cannot be filed under seal without court order showing good cause.
Documents presumptively public; sealing requires narrowly tailored court order with good cause.
Administrative motion to seal required under Local Rule 79-5 with proposed order chart.
Documents cannot be filed under seal without a narrowly tailored court order showing good cause.
Motions to seal require strict compliance with Civil Local Rule 79-5 (except 79-5(d)(2)), and are strongly disfavored.
Sealed attachments uploaded to Box.com must be unredacted, named with redacted then sealed docket numbers, organized logically.
Each sealed item requires a specific showing; blanket requests are insufficient and may be denied entirely.
Sealed documents must be highlighted to show redactions; fully sealed documents must be labeled as such.
Complicated sealing motions require the Motion to Seal Summary Table; more than 10 sealed documents require Box.com upload.
Portions of the fraud prevention plan in settlement administrator declarations may be submitted under seal if necessary.
Attorneys with high lodestar motions must include detailed billing records, which may be filed under seal via motion to seal.
For administrative motions to seal, provide chambers copies of unredacted documents with proposed redactions highlighted; do not submit redacted versions.
Sealing procedures apply to complex cases/motions with considerable sealed material.
File primary motion/brief as separate docket entry before sealing.
File temporary sealing motion with all attachments when requesting seal.
Serve all sealed documents to parties and third parties with confidential info.
Designating parties have 10 days to respond to sealing designations.
File omnibus sealing stipulation within 14 days after briefing concludes.
For sealed filings, provide docket numbers and email unredacted chambers copy with confidential material highlighted.
Do not submit redacted versions as chambers copies for sealed documents.
Sealed documents require paper and electronic courtesy copies with highlighted redactions.
Parties must provide specific justification for sealing documents and narrowly tailored redactions.
Strict compliance with Civil Local Rule 79-5 is required, except for section 79-5(d)(2).
Documents filed under seal must be highlighted to show proposed redactions.
Court proceedings presumptively public; seal requests require narrowly tailored court order via L.R. 79-5 administrative motion.
For motions to seal, provide unredacted chambers copy with highlighted redacted portions and 'UNREDACTED VERSION' notation.
Motions in limine are presumptively not sealed; leave to file under seal is ordinarily not granted.
Designating Parties under Civil Local Rule 79-5(c)(3) seeking less extensive sealing than associated administrative motions to seal must include compliant redacted and unredacted document versions with sealed portions clearly marked on unredacted copies.
Good faith determination required before designating information as confidential.
Motions to seal must include a chart with ECF number, document description, portions to seal, and reasons for sealing.
Documents presumptively public; sealing requests must comply with Local Rule 79-5
Sealed documents must follow court's standing order and Civil L.R. 79-5; sealing requests for dispositive motions are rarely granted.
Court rarely grants leave to file motions in limine under seal
Chambers copies of sealed documents are recycled unless parties request otherwise.
Sealed testimony scheduled together on single trial day, may require witness recall
Broad protective orders giving parties sealing discretion will not be approved
Confidential documents lose protection when offered as trial exhibits without compelling reasons
Court rarely grants leave to file motions in limine under seal
Motions to seal are almost always denied and may result in sanctions if frivolous.
In Social Security cases, parties should use only the plaintiff's initials in pleadings to protect privacy.
Initial motion to seal can indicate a combined motion will follow after briefing.
Chambers copies of sealed documents handled like regular copies, typically recycled not shredded.
Alternative disposal of sealed documents requires express indication in sealing motion.
Documents sought to be sealed in full must be labeled as such.
Eastern District of Pennsylvania
View all rules for EDPA.Documents cannot be filed under seal without court leave, except in emergencies.
Motions to seal must explain why secrecy outweighs public access and identify specific injuries from disclosure.
Redacted versions of sealed documents must be filed on public docket unless redactions would make document unreadable.
Motions to seal should be filed on public docket with redacted copies, and unredacted copies provided to court and parties.
Protective orders must include specific language about filing under seal.
Non-emergency documents cannot be filed under seal without leave.
Emergency sealed filings must be delivered by email or fax with explanation.
Sealed filing procedure requires narrow proposal and good cause.
After seal approval, file unredacted documents under seal and highlight non-public portions.
Within 30 days, file redacted public versions of sealed documents.
Motions to seal require good cause to be shown.
Documents generally require court leave to be filed under seal, except in emergencies.
Motions to seal must clearly explain why secrecy outweighs public access and identify specific injuries from disclosure.
Redacted versions of sealed documents must be filed on public docket unless redactions would make documents unreadable.
Motions to seal must be filed on public docket with redacted copies, and unredacted copies must be provided to court and parties.
Confidentiality orders require detailed explanation of injury and specific categories of protected information.
Confidentiality orders must include court's right to modify or allow disclosure.
Sealed document motions must be filed publicly on ECF with unredacted copy to Clerk.
Redacted version must be filed publicly on ECF unless entire document is sealed.
Unredacted documents must be filed in paper copy with Clerk, not electronically.
Motion to seal required before filing sealed documents, with courtesy copies.
Unredacted version with highlighted redactions required for redacted filings.
Motion to seal must identify specific injuries if materials are not sealed.
Documents cannot be filed under seal without leave except in emergencies; motions for leave must be public.
When filing sealed motions, provide unredacted copies to court and parties.
Provide unredacted copies of all sealed documents to court and parties.
Motion to seal must explain why secrecy outweighs public access.
Motion to seal must specify interests in nondisclosure.
File redacted versions of sealed documents on public docket unless redactions are too extensive.
Proposed orders for sealed filings must require filing redacted versions on public docket.
If proposed order omits redaction requirement, explain why redaction would render documents unreadable.
Confidentiality/protective orders require formal motion, not stipulated orders.
Motion for protective order must explain good cause under FRCP 26(c).
Proposed protective order must state reasons good cause exists and private interests outweigh public interests.
Sealing motions must justify overcoming public access presumption.
Protective orders cannot allow parties to seal materials without court approval.
Protective orders must reserve court's power to modify for justice.
Inadvertently produced privileged documents must be immediately returned.
Receiving party must return or destroy all copies of inadvertently produced privileged documents.
Protective orders on confidentiality require statutory requirement or good cause.
Documents cannot be filed under seal in civil cases without leave, except in emergencies.
Complaints should almost never be filed under seal.
Motion to file under seal must be filed on public docket by ECF with unredacted documents emailed to chambers
Once granted, file complete unredacted sealed documents on ECF docket and highlight non-public portions
Within 30 days of filing under seal, file thoughtfully and narrowly redacted public versions on ECF docket
Sealed documents must be filed on ECF and sent to chambers like courtesy copies; paper copies not accepted
Confidentiality/sealing orders require good cause and specific language about Court's modification rights.
Existing confidentiality orders allow sealed filings without separate motion; otherwise, motion to seal required.
Public filing required within 7 days of docketing sealed submissions.
Protective orders must include specific language about filing under seal.
Non-emergency documents cannot be filed under seal without leave.
Emergency sealed filings must be delivered by email or fax with explanation.
Sealed filing procedure requires narrow proposal and good cause.
After seal approval, file unredacted documents under seal and highlight non-public portions.
Within 30 days, file redacted public versions of sealed documents.
Documents cannot be filed under seal without court leave, except in emergencies.
Motions to seal must explain why secrecy outweighs public access and identify specific injuries from disclosure.
Redacted versions of sealed documents must be filed on public docket unless redactions would make document unreadable.
Motions to seal should be filed on public docket with redacted copies, and unredacted copies provided to court and parties.
Documents generally require court leave to be filed under seal, except in emergencies.
Motions to seal must clearly explain why secrecy outweighs public access and identify specific injuries from disclosure.
Redacted versions of sealed documents must be filed on public docket unless redactions would make documents unreadable.
Motions to seal must be filed on public docket with redacted copies, and unredacted copies must be provided to court and parties.
Motions to seal require good cause to be shown.
Sealed filings require motion to seal, good cause, and specific email procedures.
Documents cannot be filed under seal without court leave, except in emergencies.
Redacted copy must be filed when document is ordered sealed.
Documents cannot be filed under seal without leave of court unless emergency; good cause or pre-litigation confidentiality agreement required.
When Court orders sealing, a redacted copy must be filed unless ordered otherwise or redaction would make it unreadable.
Sealed documents must comply with Local Rule 5.1.2, Section 6 and require a motion for leave to file under seal.
Highly sensitive documents require compliance with January 22, 2021 Standing Order procedures.
Sealed filings must be accompanied by a motion for leave to file under seal.
Stipulated confidentiality/sealing orders must demonstrate good cause and include specific language reserving the Court's right to modify.
Motion to seal required before filing sealed documents, with courtesy copies.
Unredacted version with highlighted redactions required for redacted filings.
Leave of court required to file under seal (except emergencies), with courtesy copy of proposed sealed documents required; redacted versions generally must be filed publicly.
When filing a redacted document, an unredacted version highlighting proposed redactions must also be filed.
Sealed filings require motion to seal, good cause, and specific email procedures.
Sealed filings require motion to seal filed first, then Notice of Sealed Documents emailed to ECF address and documents emailed to Chambers.
Parties must follow Clerk's general procedures for filing sealed documents.
Parties must collaborate on sealing motions for confidential material.
Sealing orders require good cause and specific language.
Parties must follow Clerk's general procedures for filing sealed documents.
Sealed/redacted documents require scrutiny.
Confidentiality/sealing orders require good cause under Fed. R. Civ. P. 26(c)(1)(G) and must contain specific language reserving the Court's right to modify.
Parties must collaborate on sealing motions for confidential material.
Sealed/redacted documents require scrutiny.
Parties must follow Clerk's general procedures for filing sealed documents.
Large scale discovery may use categorical protective orders if well-defined.
Challenging protective orders requires item-by-item justification.
Parties must follow Clerk's general procedures for filing sealed documents.
Eastern District of New York
View all rules for EDNY.When redaction is granted, file an unredacted sealed version and a redacted public version.
Sealing requests are typically denied if they do not propose redactions or specifically explain why redactions are not feasible.
A party seeking to file under seal must follow the EDNY technical sealing instructions.
Sealed document filings must follow EDNY website technical instructions.
Sealing requests must explain necessity and propose narrowly tailored redactions.
Proposed redactions must be highlighted while keeping material readable.
Granted redactions require filing unredacted version under seal and redacted version publicly.
Sealed documents must be submitted in hard copy unless leave granted to file on ECF.
Electronic filings must comply with FRCP 5.2 redaction requirements.
A sealing request must be filed on ECF as a motion, and a public redacted version must be filed simultaneously.
Only FRCP 5.2 categories may be redacted without prior permission; all other redactions require Court approval per Lugosch test.
A single motion to seal must address all documents for which sealing is sought, with each document as separate exhibits.
Both redacted public versions and unredacted sealed versions of motions to seal must be filed.
Sealed filings must be filed through ECF under seal.
Confidential information filed with the Court must be filed under seal.
Confidential treatment may be applied to proprietary commercial data, sensitive personal data, medical/legal records, and non-public criminal history.
Parties must follow the EDNY civil sealed-document e-filing procedure.
Criminal sealed-filing procedures are provided in the referenced EDNY instruction document.
A motion for leave is required and must be filed via ECF to file documents under seal.
Civil sealed-filing procedures are provided in the referenced EDNY instruction document.
Presentence report objections should be filed under seal on ECF and served on opposing counsel and Probation.
Sealed filings must be filed through ECF under seal.
Sealed filings must be made via ECF and include a sealing motion, following EDNY website instructions.
Sealing requests must comply with EDNY Administrative Order No. 2004-05.
Sealed filings must be made via ECF and include a sealing motion, following EDNY website instructions.
Sealing requests must comply with EDNY Administrative Order No. 2004-05.
Sealing requires a letter with reasons plus sealed and proposed redacted copies emailed to the Courtroom Deputy, sent to Chambers (not Clerk), and not filed by the party via ECF.
When redaction is granted, file an unredacted sealed version and a redacted public version.
Sealed or sensitive documents must be e-filed under seal and a labeled hard copy must be delivered to chambers.
Electronic filings must comply with FRCP 5.2 redaction requirements.
A sealing request must be filed on ECF as a motion, and a public redacted version must be filed simultaneously.
Sealing requests are typically denied if they do not propose redactions or specifically explain why redactions are not feasible.
A party seeking to file under seal must follow the EDNY technical sealing instructions.
Sealed electronic filing requires prior leave by motion with the proposed filing attached under seal, and only then may the original be filed separately under seal in ECF.
Documents that are sealed or contain sealed/sensitive information must be submitted only in hard copy with a sealing label.
Motions to file under seal must be filed via ECF with sealed documents attached.
Motions to seal must be filed via ECF with proposed sealed documents attached.
A court order specifically identifying the documents is required before any sealed filing.
A proposed redacted version must be submitted for public docketing with a sealing application.
Sealed submissions must be filed on ECF with explanation of sealing necessity.
A motion for leave is required before filing under seal, and publicly filed documents cannot be retroactively sealed.
Sealed submissions must be filed on ECF with explanation unless prior approval granted.
Sealed or sensitive documents must be e-filed under seal and a labeled hard copy must be delivered to chambers.
A sealing motion and proposed sealed documents must be filed on ECF when seeking to file under seal.
Sealing requires a letter with reasons plus sealed and proposed redacted copies emailed to the Courtroom Deputy, sent to Chambers (not Clerk), and not filed by the party via ECF.
Requests to seal court documents must be made under Rule 3(C), not by letter motion.
Sealed/redacted documents must be filed on ECF with both versions, unredacted under seal.
Sealed electronic filing is allowed only after filing a letter motion for leave and obtaining court permission.
A motion for leave is required to file under seal, and the proposed sealed document must be attached.
When leave to seal is granted, the sealed written submission should still be filed on ECF.
Proposed redactions should be highlighted or otherwise identified while keeping the underlying text readable.
A sealing request should explain necessity and include narrowly tailored proposed redactions.
Objections must be filed under seal on ECF and served on opposing counsel and Probation.
Sealed documents require settlement rules compliance or prior court permission.
Proposed redactions should be highlighted or otherwise identified while keeping the underlying text readable.
A sealing request should explain necessity and include narrowly tailored proposed redactions.
Rule 5.2-authorized redactions are exempt from the requirement to apply to the Court.
Rule 5.2-authorized redactions are exempt from the requirement to apply to the Court.
Ex parte settlement statements are treated as confidential and no separate motion to file ex parte is required when the Court has directed ex parte electronic filing.
Filing under seal governed by Local Rules (full rule not provided in this excerpt).
Only confidential portions of filings should be sealed when possible.
Western District of Washington
View all rules for WDWA.In camera review requires electronic copy to Courtroom Deputy and physical copy to chambers, clearly marked.
Personal data identifiers must be redacted per LCR 5.2(a) requirements.
Parties must redact personal data identifiers from filings and exhibits per LCR 5.2(a).
For in camera review, send electronic copy to Mary Trent; if over 50 pages, also deliver physical copy to Tacoma Clerk's Office.
Sealed documents must be submitted in person or by mail, not electronically.
In camera review requires electronic copy to Courtroom Deputy and physical copy to chambers, clearly marked.
Personal data identifiers must be redacted per LCR 5.2(a) requirements.
All settlement communications are confidential and not admissible for other purposes.
Personal identifiers must be redacted or removed before filing.
Sealed documents require a Motion to Seal with proposed order and supporting declaration/affidavit.
Sealed documents must be in a sealed envelope marked with case info and delivered in person to Clerk’s Office.
Sealed documents cannot be accessed by anyone without a granted motion to unseal.
Sealed documents must be submitted in person or by mail, not electronically.
Personal identifiers must be redacted or removed before filing.
Sealed documents require a Motion to Seal with proposed order and supporting declaration/affidavit.
Sealed documents must be in a sealed envelope marked with case info and delivered in person to Clerk’s Office.
Sealed documents cannot be accessed by anyone without a granted motion to unseal.
Personal identifiers must be redacted before filing per LCR 5.2(a), with specific redaction rules for dates of birth, minor children's names, SSNs, financial accounts, and other sensitive information.
A Motion to Seal with proposed order and declaration/affidavit is required to file sealed documents.
Sealed documents must be filed in person or by mail, not electronically.
Sealed documents must be in an envelope marked with caption, case number, and "FILED UNDER SEAL", delivered in person to the Clerk's Office.
Redact SSNs and TINs in their entirety.
Sealed documents must be marked “FILED UNDER SEAL” on the first page.
Parties must redact sensitive information unless filing under seal is unavoidable.
Documents may be filed under seal only with statutory authorization or by filing a motion to seal simultaneously.
Motion to seal must include meet-and-confer certification with date, manner, and participants.
Motion to seal must explain legal standard, interests, injury, and why alternatives are insufficient.
Minimize sealed documents; exhibits must be filed separately with placeholder page.
Motions, oppositions, and replies should rarely be sealed; if necessary, file redacted version publicly and unredacted version under seal with motion to seal.
Redact minor children's names to initials, unless deceased or over 18.
Paper copies of sealed documents must be in envelope marked with case caption and “FILED UNDER SEAL.”
Parties must redact personal data identifiers from all filings and exhibits.
Redact dates of birth to year only, unless deceased.
Redact financial accounting information to last four digits.
Redact passport and driver license numbers in their entirety.
Social Security and immigration cases require sealed administrative records.
Excerpts of sealed records must be redacted or filed under seal.
Arbitration awards must be sealed from judges until final judgment.
Arbitration awards must be sealed from judges except for cost assessment, final judgment, or required reports.
Parties must redact specified personal data identifiers from all filed documents and exhibits, with specific redaction rules per identifier type.
Motions to seal must comply with Local Rule CR 5(g) and include specific descriptions, facts justifying sealing, and a proposed order.
Motion to seal must be filed before or with the document to be sealed if parties cannot agree.
7-day notice required when filing documents claimed as confidential by other parties.
Counsel must advise Court on disposition of confidential matters if sealing request is denied.
Witness sequestration rule applies throughout trial until closing arguments.
All settlement communications are confidential and not admissible for other purposes.
Personal identifying information must be redacted from all filings
Counsel must avoid eliciting personal identifiers; may request redaction if inadvertently disclosed.
Denied motions to seal result in document unsealing, with option to withdraw from record.
Denied motions to seal result in document unsealing, with option to withdraw from record.
Denied motions to seal result in unsealing unless withdrawal is requested; withdrawn documents cannot be referenced.
Avoid eliciting personal identifiers from witnesses; redaction available if inadvertently disclosed
Sealed document procedures section begins
Sealed documents remain sealed until further court order.
Sealed document procedures section begins
Sealed documents remain sealed until further court order.
Sealed documents remain sealed until further court order.
Parties or non-parties may file motions to unseal sealed documents.
Court considers trial evidence, including confidential materials, to be public record unless otherwise determined.
District of Delaware
View all rules for DED.Redacted version of sealed documents must be filed electronically within 7 days of filing the sealed document.
Redacted version of sealed documents must be filed electronically within 7 days.
Redacted versions of sealed documents must be filed electronically within 7 days of the sealed document filing.
Sealed papers require original and copy to Clerk; redacted version due within 7 days.
Redacted version of sealed documents must be filed electronically within 7 days.
Sealed documents require 1 original + 2 copies to Clerk; electronic redacted version within 7 days.
Sealed papers require original plus two copies to Clerk; redacted version must be filed electronically within 7 days.
Redacted version of sealed documents must be filed electronically within 7 days.
ADR communications are confidential and disclosure is prohibited except by court authorization or party agreement.
Redacted sealed documents must be filed electronically within 7 days; paper copies of sealed documents required but not redacted versions.
Redacted version of sealed documents must be filed electronically within 7 days.
ADR communications are confidential and not open to the public.
Transcript sealing/redaction requires motion with highlighted transcript and proposed redacted version.
ADR communications are confidential and disclosure is prohibited except as authorized by the Court or agreed to by the parties.
Redacted version of sealed documents must be filed electronically within 7 days.
Redacted version of sealed document due within 7 days.
Redacted version of sealed documents must be filed electronically within 7 days.
Sealed papers require original + 1 copy to Clerk; redacted version due within 7 days.
Redacted version of sealed documents must be filed electronically within 7 days.
Redacted version of sealed documents must be filed electronically within 7 days.
Redacted version of sealed documents must be filed electronically within 7 days.
Redacted versions of sealed documents must be filed electronically within 7 days of filing the sealed document.
Sealed papers require original and copy to Clerk; redacted version due within 7 days.
Sealed papers require original and copy delivered to Clerk; redacted version filed electronically within 7 days.
Sealed papers require original + 1 copy to Clerk; redacted version due within 7 days.
Sealed papers require original plus one copy to Clerk; redacted version must be e-filed within 7 days.
Redacted version of sealed documents must be filed electronically within 7 days.
A redacted version of any sealed document must be filed electronically within 7 days of the sealed document filing.
ADR communications are confidential and disclosure is prohibited except as authorized by the Court or agreed to by the parties.
Redacted version of sealed documents must be filed electronically within 7 days.
Transcript sealing/redaction requires motion with highlighted transcript and proposed redacted version.
Redacted versions of sealed documents must be filed electronically within 7 days of the sealed filing.
Transcript sealing requires advance notice at proceeding start, followed by motion with highlighted complete transcript and proposed redacted version, plus good cause demonstration.
Sealed papers require original plus two copies to Clerk; redacted version must be filed electronically within 7 days.
Sealed papers require an original and two copies delivered to the Clerk, with a redacted version filed electronically within 7 days.
Redacted sealed documents must be filed electronically within 7 days; paper copies of sealed documents required but not redacted versions.
Redacted versions of sealed documents must be filed electronically within 7 days; courtesy copies of sealed docs go to Clerk's Office but redacted versions do not.
Sealed documents require 1 original + 2 copies to Clerk; electronic redacted version within 7 days.
Sealed filings require original plus 2 copies to Clerk, with redacted version filed electronically within 7 days.
Parties must note intent to seal/redact transcript at start of proceeding.
Requests to seal or redact transcripts require filing a motion with the complete highlighted transcript and proposed redacted version attached.
Parties must note intent to seal/redact transcript at start of proceeding.
Parties intending to seal/redact transcript portions must note this intent at the start of the court proceeding.
No document-by-document preauthorization is required to file under seal in most cases; preauthorization is required if counsel cannot consistently follow the Avandia standard.
Sealed courtesy copies no longer required in sealed envelopes.
Sealed envelopes for courtesy copies optional at counsel's discretion.
Technology tutorials may be filed under seal.
Technology tutorials may be filed under seal.
District of New Jersey
View all rules for DNJ.Consent of all parties required for sealing motions.
Sealed or sentencing materials may be emailed to Chambers if copying chambers email and filing a redacted version on CM/ECF.
Counsel of Record must meet and confer to determine redactions upon Request for Disclosure.
Letters sent directly to the Court not attached to a sentencing memorandum are presumptively confidential.
Counsel must redact Presumptively Non-Public Information prior to e-filing, including PSR references, victim names, and personal data.
Defendant and counsel are ordinarily not permitted to review Probation Department sentencing recommendations.
Confidential exhibits must have redacted versions filed on the public docket and unredacted versions filed under seal; hardcopy confidential exhibits must be in sealed envelopes marked confidential. Counsel must provide advance notice if witnesses will testify about confidential information.
Confidential exhibits require redacted public filings and unredacted sealed filings; hardcopies must be in sealed marked envelopes, only redacted versions are shared on Zoom, and advanced notice is required for witness testimony on confidential information.
Discovery Confidentiality Orders must comply with FRCP 26(c) and Local Rule 5.3.
Consent of all parties required for sealing motions.
Motions to seal require proposed order with findings/conclusions, references to docket entries, and contemporaneous submission of redacted documents.
Motions to seal require proposed order, findings of fact, conclusions of law, and docket entry references.
Confidential exhibits require redacted public docket versions and unredacted sealed versions filed pursuant to Local Rule; hardcopy confidential exhibits must be in sealed, marked envelopes.
Discovery Confidentiality Orders must comply with FRCP 26(c) and Local Rule 5.3.
Motions to seal must comply with Local Rule 5.3(c), include proposed order and findings, reference docket entries, and certify party consent.
Counsel must meet and confer to determine redactions after Request for Disclosure.
Redactions must be made before disclosure regardless of party agreement.
Public/press must file written request for access to redacted sentencing materials with 5-page limit, parties respond within 2 days (5-page limit).
Presumptively non-public information includes PSR references, victim/witness names, sensitive personal data, and law enforcement investigation information.
Redactions must be sufficient to prevent content from being apparent from surrounding context.
Motions to seal require proposed order with findings/conclusions, references to docket entries, and contemporaneous submission of redacted documents.
Confidential exhibits require a redacted public version and sealed unredacted version filed with the Court.
Letters attached to sentencing memoranda must be grouped as single document; letters sent directly to Court are presumptively confidential.
Motions to seal are handled by the assigned Magistrate Judge.
Settlement and discovery dispute letters under confidentiality order may be emailed to AME_orders@njd.uscourts.gov.
Sealed documents must comply with Local Civil Rule 5.1.
Sealed documents must comply with Local Civil Rule 5.1.
Magistrate Judge handles motions to seal.
Southern District of Texas
View all rules for SDTX.Parties may provisionally file documents under seal if contemporaneously submitting a motion for leave to seal; court determines final seal status and may direct filing of public redacted version.
Parties must obtain court permission to seal filings containing confidential information, requiring a sealed motion, unredacted filing, and redacted public version.
Documents subject to confidential treatment or disclosing Confidential Information must be filed under seal, kept sealed until court order, with only confidential parts sealed if possible.
Pleadings and exhibits containing personal data identifiers must comply with S.D. Texas General Order #2004-11 regarding personal privacy protections.
Exhibits with personal data identifiers must comply with S.D. Texas General Order #2004-11.
Counsel must comply with Fed. R. Civ. P. 5.2(a) to protect minor plaintiffs' identities and privileged information.
Pleadings with personal data identifiers must comply with S.D. Texas General Order #2004-11 on personal privacy protection.
Exhibits with personal data identifiers must comply with S.D. Texas General Order #2004-11 regarding sealing/redaction.
Parties filing pleadings, motions, or exhibits under seal must first file a Motion to File under Seal.
Parties filing a civil action they wish to seal must submit an application to the clerk with complaint and materials in a sealed envelope marked 'sealed exhibit'.
Grand juror names must be kept confidential.
Probation officer's sentencing recommendation is not disclosed unless ordered by the sentencing judge.
Filing documents under seal requires a motion establishing good cause, with redacted versions filed publicly, unredacted versions filed under seal, and proper SEALED designation on CM/ECF.
Pleadings with personal data identifiers must comply with S.D. Texas General Order #2004-11 regarding personal privacy.
Exhibits containing personal data identifiers must comply with S.D. Texas General Order #2004-11.
Confidential information and filings disclosing it must be filed under seal until further court order, with producing parties responsible for any additional preconditions required by the court.
Motions to seal pleadings, briefs, or supporting materials require good cause; public access is presumed and sealed filings are disfavored.
Sealed materials must be filed under seal, with a separate public motion to seal attaching a redacted version, or show cause why redaction is impossible.
Pleadings with personal data identifiers must comply with S.D. Texas General Order #2004-11 regarding personal privacy.
Exhibits with personal data identifiers must comply with S.D. Texas General Order #2004-11.
Presentence Investigation Reports (PSR) are sealed documents and must not contain information excluded by Fed. R. Crim. P. 32(d)(3).
Pleadings with personal data identifiers must comply with S.D. Texas General Order #2004-11 on personal privacy in public case files.
Documents subject to confidential treatment or disclosing Confidential Information must be filed under seal until court order, with only confidential parts sealed if possible.
Pleadings, motions, and other papers disclosing Confidential Information must be filed under seal until further court order, with only confidential portions sealed where possible.
Sealed filings are disfavored; follow Section 12 procedures if sealing is necessary.
Grand jury witness names may be sealed for cause.
Petit juror names may be kept confidential at the trial judge's discretion.
Eastern District of California
View all rules for EDCA.Documents cannot be sealed or redacted without prior court approval, except as required by Local Rule 140.
Sealing requests must comply with Local Rule 141 and FRCP, state opposition status, and allow 3 days for opposition/non-opposition.
Sealing requests must be filed electronically with specific email addresses and include proposed order in Word format.
Protective orders don't govern public docket sealing; proponent must file sealing requests and provide advance notice to opposing parties.
Sealing/redaction requires court approval; direct to Judge Drozd if he decides the motion.
Court approval required before sealing or redacting documents.
Sealing/redaction requires court approval; direct to Judge Drozd if he decides the motion.
Documents cannot be sealed or redacted without court approval unless required by Local Rule 140.
Sealing/redaction requests for motions before Judge Calabretta must be directed to him, not the Magistrate Judge.
Sealing requests must comply with Local Rule 141 and FRCP, with opposition/non-opposition required within 3 days.
Sealing requests must be filed electronically with specific email addresses for submission and approval.
Protective orders don't govern sealed/redacted filings; proponent must file sealing requests; advance notice required for confidential material.
All requests to seal or redact documents require prior court approval, must comply with Local Rules 140 and 141, and follow specified electronic filing and email submission procedures.
Court approval required before sealing or redacting documents.
Sealing/redaction requires prior court approval except LR 140 redaction; requests for Judge Calabretta motions go to him, all requests governed by LR 141 and 140.
Sealing requests must comply with LR 141 and FRCP; moving party must state if request is opposed.
Sealing request materials must be emailed to DJCorders; approved documents emailed to ApprovedSealed for filing under seal.
Discovery protective orders do not govern sealed/redacted public docket filings; only proponent of sealing may file requests.
Filing parties must seek sealing/redaction order if including material opposing party identified as confidential.
Sealing/redaction requests for Judge Coggins' motions go directly to Judge Coggins.
Advance notice required to opposing party before filing confidential material.
Sealing/redaction requests for Judge Coggins' motions go directly to Judge Coggins.
Advance notice required to opposing party before filing confidential material.
Protective orders don't govern sealed/redacted filings; only proponent can request.
Protective orders don't govern sealed/redacted filings; only proponent can request.
Counsel must refer to Local Rule 141 for all sealed document procedures.
District of Columbia
View all rules for DDC.Favorable information the government seeks to withhold must be submitted to the Court for in camera review.
Government must submit favorable information sought to be withheld to Court for in camera review.
Redacted version required when filing motion to seal; must notify court if all portions must remain sealed.
Protective orders alone insufficient for sealing; must confer with opposing party and provide results in motion to seal.
Motion for leave to file under seal requires both unredacted and proposed redacted versions.
When filing under seal, submit both unredacted and proposed redacted versions.
Sealed documents require motion to seal under Local Civil Rule 5.1(h).
Sealing cannot be justified solely by protective order; unredacted copy with highlighted redactions must be filed.
Unredacted courtesy copies required for sealed/redacted filings, with redacted portions highlighted
Government must submit favorable information sought to be withheld to Court for in camera review.
When filing under seal, submit both unredacted and proposed redacted versions.
When seeking to seal, parties must submit both unredacted version for sealing and a proposed redacted version for public docketing.
Sealed documents require motion to seal under Local Civil Rule 5.1(h).
Sealing cannot be justified solely by protective order; unredacted copy with highlighted redactions must be filed.
Unredacted courtesy copies required for sealed/redacted filings, with redacted portions highlighted
Sealed documents in unsealed cases require motion to seal per Local Civil Rule 5.1(h).
Motions to seal must justify under Hubbard factors, propose redactions or explain impracticability, and include each document as separate exhibit.
When proposing redactions, parties must file an unredacted copy with proposed redactions highlighted.
In widely publicized cases, parties must refrain from extrajudicial statements that could prejudice a fair trial.
In widely publicized cases, parties must refrain from extrajudicial statements that could prejudice a fair trial.
Protective order coverage alone is insufficient justification for sealing.
Sealed/redacted filings require unredacted courtesy copies with redacted portions highlighted.
Eastern District of Texas
View all rules for EDTX.Limit personal information in filings: last 4 digits of account numbers, initials for minors, year for birth dates, city/state for addresses.
Standing order governs sealing of documents in civil cases before Judge Jordan
Judicial records belong to the public and must be accessible
Courts must be ungenerous with discretion to seal judicial records
Parties must show compelling interests to overcome presumption of public access
Courts must balance public access rights against nondisclosure interests line-by-line
Courts must consider redaction as less drastic alternative to sealing entire documents
Sealed filings must include certificate of service identifying motion to seal or specific court order authorizing sealing by docket number and provisions.
Attachments requiring sealing must be filed separately with proper certificate of service; entire filing cannot be sealed based on attachments.
Requests to seal courtroom/record must be made before public disclosure and demonstrate sensitive nature and good faith meet-and-confer.
Documents designated as 'Confidential' by producing party are Protected Documents entitled to confidential treatment.
Challenging confidential designation requires written notice and certification, with 10-day deadline to file motion.
Standing order governs sealing of documents in civil cases before Judge Jordan
Judicial records belong to the public and must be accessible
Courts must be ungenerous with discretion to seal judicial records
Parties must show compelling interests to overcome presumption of public access
Courts must balance public access rights against nondisclosure interests line-by-line
Courts must consider redaction as less drastic alternative to sealing entire documents
Post-disclosure sealing/redaction requests require good cause for not filing in advance and must comply with Local Rule CV-5.2 timing.
Exemptions from Protected Document status include published materials and government submissions.
Sealing order applies only to civil cases before Judge Jordan
Sealing order applies only to civil cases before Judge Jordan
Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles
View all rules for CA-LOS-ANGELES-SUPERIOR.Motion support materials submitted under seal must comply with California Rules of Court Rule 2.551 et seq.
Strict compliance with CRC rule 2.551 et seq. required for sealed documents.
Conditionally sealed documents must be emailed unredacted to Dept E for review.
Motion to seal must be e-filed and comply with CRC 2.550-2.551.
Materials in support of a motion filed under seal must comply with California Rules of Court Rule 2.551 et seq.
Penal Code 987.9 appearance logs must be provided under seal within 60 days of sentencing.
Exhibits with sensitive personal information must be redacted unless the court rules otherwise, with redaction approved by opposing counsel first.
Confidential Supplement form must not be placed in the public court file.
Bank account statements with personal info must be filed separately with confidential caption to avoid public record.
Conditionally sealed documents must have application to seal heard 2 weeks before underlying motion, with 10-day windows for applications and withdrawals.
Discovery motions and supporting documents may be filed under seal without court order, exempt from standard sealing procedures.
Party seeking protective order for discovery documents must file proposed protective order within 5 days of order; default protective order is LASC standard form.
Documents ordered sealed must be e-filed, with party responsible for accurate designation.
Submitting parties must redact confidential information to prevent public disclosure.
Parties must comply with Cal. Rules of Court 2.550/2.551 for sealing; court requires legal justification, specific findings, and narrow tailoring.
Confidential discovery motion documents follow special sealing: redact public version, submit unredacted in sealed envelope behind caption, file redacted version publicly.
Strict compliance with CRC rule 2.551 et seq. is required for all sealed documents.
Sealed motion materials must comply with CRC 2.551; conditionally sealed documents are exempt from e-filing.
Materials filed under seal must strictly comply with CRC Rule 2.551 et seq.
Western District of Texas
View all rules for WDTX.Parties must meet and confer before filing a motion to seal; motion must certify compliance.
Discovery cannot be withheld for confidentiality without court order.
Patent cases presumptively require protective order for confidential information.
Compliance with Fed. R. Civ. P. 5.2 regarding redaction of certain material is mandatory.
Redacted public version required within 7 days for sealed motions/pleadings
Redacted version of sealed orders must be emailed within 7 days
Parties must coordinate on redactions for publicly available versions
Publicly available versions must be labeled 'PUBLIC VERSION'
Compliance with Fed. R. Civ. P. 5.2 regarding redaction of certain material is mandatory.
Discovery cannot be withheld for confidentiality without court order.
Patent cases presumptively require protective order for confidential information.
Sealing requires motion with authority; redaction preferred over sealing.
Sealing discouraged; redaction preferred; leave of court required for sealed filings.
Sealing filings is disfavored; redaction preferred; court approval required for sealing.
Non-confidential exhibits should not be filed under seal
Redactions must be narrowly targeted to confidential information only
Sealing filings is disfavored; redaction preferred; court approval required for sealing.
Redacted versions not required for exhibits to sealed documents
Cooperation on redactions does not constitute agreement on confidentiality
Northern District of Illinois
View all rules for NDIL.Court approval required before filing any document under seal or as restricted.
Parties cannot amend protective order provisions regarding court approval or document return without court approval.
Confidential/Highly Confidential documents must be clearly marked on their face.
Deposition testimony must be designated as Confidential/Highly Confidential on record or within 14 days of transcript receipt.
Disputed confidentiality designations must be resolved through meet-and-confer; producer bears burden of proof.
Recipient must promptly notify producer when receiving compulsory process for confidential information.
No document may be filed under seal without prior court permission.
Party must notify producer 5 business days before filing document containing confidential information.
Sealed documents must include cover sheet with case caption, title, order date, and attorney signature.
Default protective order in Appendix B effective upon initial disclosures; modifications allowed for good cause without delaying disclosures.
Sealed/restricted documents may be returned within 63 days after case closure; otherwise become public.
Settlement conference statements are confidential and inadmissible at trial under Local Rule 83.5.
Protective order entered under FRCP 26(c)(1) for trade secrets and confidential information.
Confidential/Highly Confidential designation requires good faith belief based on reasonable inquiry.
Confidential/Highly Confidential designations can be withdrawn by written notice to all parties.
18th Judicial Circuit Court, DuPage County
View all rules for IL-DUPAGE-CIRCUIT.Original eavesdropping device authorization applications and orders are impounded by the Clerk.
Filing parties must ensure e-filed documents do not disclose sealed/private info; sealed documents may be e-filed, with motion to seal requiring explanation of legal standards.
Redact SSN/DL numbers (last 4), minor names (initials), DOB (year only), and financial account numbers (last 4) from e-filed documents unless court ordered.
All documents filed with the Circuit Court Clerk (except civil writs of attachment) must be redacted to protect privacy rights.
Filed documents must redact SSN (last 4), minor children names, DOB (year only), financial account numbers (last 4), except civil writs of attachment.
Original pre-plea and pre-sentence reports must be filed in a sealed envelope with the Clerk, marked with report type and case number/title.
Parties with legal basis to file under seal without prior order must e-file a motion for leave to seal, include standards explanation, and not attach the document to the motion.
Parties must redact SSNs, driver's license numbers, minor children's full names, full dates of birth, and financial account numbers in e-filed documents, using only last 4 digits, initials, or year as required.
Eastern District of Virginia
View all rules for EDVA.Transportation Orders for prisoner debriefings/interviews may be filed under seal
Transportation Orders for prisoner debriefings/interviews may be filed under seal
Transportation Orders for prisoner debriefings or interviews must be filed under seal with 'UNDER SEAL' marked on the face sheet.
Court will provide certain sealed materials to counsel upon request without motion.
Sealed Transportation Orders must be shared with specific parties
Sealed Transportation Orders remain sealed unless court orders otherwise
Sealed Transportation Orders must be shared with specific parties
Sealed Transportation Orders remain sealed unless court orders otherwise
Circuit Court of Cook County
View all rules for IL-COOK-CIRCUIT.Personal identity info required by law must have conventional Notice; redacted docs may be e-filed; filers responsible for redaction, Clerk not liable.
Motion to file under seal may be e-filed without prior authorization; sealed document not attached to motion.
Fee petitions filed under seal or for in camera review require prior leave of court to be accepted.
IL-KANE-CIRCUIT
View all rules for IL-KANE-CIRCUIT.Juror-related court documents containing identifying information are impounded after jury trials; accessing such documents requires filing a petition with good cause.
Written reports submitted by GALs are impounded by the circuit clerk and not accessible to the public.
Related Rule Categories
Maximum page counts and word limits for motions, briefs, and other filings by judge.
When and how to deliver courtesy copies to chambers, including triggers, timing, and formatting.
Electronic filing requirements, permitted filing channels, EFSP portals, and exceptions.
Filing cutoffs, deemed-filed rules, rejection handling, cure periods, and outage procedures.