LR 5.4, Filing Documents Under Seal, governs the filing of documents, or portions of documents under seal. The rule prescribes how parties should move for court permission to file documents under seal and when documents can be filed under seal without a motion or order.  In addition, LR 5.4 requires parties to discuss issues of confidentiality raised in the case and the potential need for filing documents under seal, and then file a Local Rule 5.5 Report presenting their plan for managing these issues.

The Clerk’s Office has prepared two aids for filing sealed documents:

First, the Guidelines for the Filing of Confidential Information in Civil Cases provide specific procedures and instructions for filing various sealed and redacted documents. The Guidelines are presented in a frequently asked questions format. In addition, the Guidelines highlight the 2021 Amendments to the Local Rules, specifically: (1) the requirement of a Report under LR 5.5; (2) the requirement of a LR 5.4 Checklist when filing documents under seal; and (3) additional guidance for how to file and docket documents for which sealing is sought. Please read this document in conjunction with Standing Order 41 for filings on or after August 20, 2025.

Second, a Frequently Asked Questions page for Standing Order 41, which is effective August 20, 2025. This Standing Order requires sealed documents to be filed in paper, not CM/ECF.