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Motion to Seal Document(s)

Updated 11/11/2020

In General

The motion must describe the item to be sealed, the applicable standard for sealing the information, and how that standard is met. The motion must also specify whether the document should be sealed in its entirety or whether the filer wishes to file a redacted document but make an unredacted version available to the judge. (If the confidential information will not be made available to the judge, a motion to seal generally is unnecessary.) Unless directed to do so by the court, do not file or submit the subject document at the time the motion is filed.

See also: Guideline on Sealed and Redacted Documents. 

Hearing

Generally, a hearing is not required.  The court will advise you if the matter will be set for hearing.

References

11 U.S.C. § 107; FRBP 9018; LBR 9018-1

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • Select Bankruptcy > Motions/Applications.
  • Enter Case Number.
  • Select Seal Documents (Motion).
  • Click Browse/Choose File and upload PDF.
  • Skip the Joint Filing screen if you are the only attorney filing this motion. I
  • Select Party filer.  If the party is not listed, view instructions on adding a new party to the case.
  • The Attorney/Party Association screen displays if the association does not already exist. Carefully read the message in red.
  • Select Yes or No at the prompt, Does this concern a previously filed document?
    • If Yes, this event will create an entry on the public docket but the PDF of the document will be restricted and may only be viewed by the filer and the court, unless the court orders otherwise.
  • Modify docket text to describe attachments (e.g., Memorandum, Declaration, etc.), if appropriate.  
  • Verify final docket text. Click Next to complete the filing.
  • The Notice of Electronic Filing displays. This is the verification that the document has been electronically filed.