Is Divorce Public In Connecticut?

On Behalf of | Nov 14, 2018 | Divorce

Divorce is a private matter. Most people would prefer to keep it confidential, particularly when they wish to limit the disclosure of sensitive or proprietary financial information or trade secrets. Some cases involve allegations of salacious information that could potentially harm a person’s character. However, divorce is a matter of public record in Connecticut.

Divorce And Privacy

While divorce filings are public record, divorces are sometimes resolved privately via negotiated or mediated settlements. Financial affidavits are sealed in divorces resolved via settlement. If a divorce is resolved via trial, the public may attend the proceeding and financial affidavits are available for review by the public. 

Divorce Records May Be Sealed In Some Cases

Connecticut does offer, in limited circumstances, the option to seal divorce records in certain cases. If the case involves domestic violence, sensitive information about a minor child, proprietary business details, banking details or similar private information, courts have the authority to seal portions or the entirety of a file, and to close the courtroom during portions of the proceeding.

In high profile divorce cases especially, it is critical to work with an attorney who understands when divorce records may be sealed, and who is adept at appropriately mitigating media attention when necessary.

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