Court cases are normally open to the public and recorded in the official register. In some situations, access may be limited to protect individuals or sensitive information.

Closed hearings

A hearing may be closed when the Court decides it is necessary.

This can happen to protect:

• a person’s privacy
• minors or vulnerable people

A closed hearing means that members of the public are not allowed to attend.

Sealed cases

The Court may also seal a case.

A sealed case means that some or all information is not available to the public, even in official records.

This may be done where disclosure would cause serious harm.

Access to information

Court records are normally available to the public, but access may be restricted in closed or sealed cases.

Personal or sensitive information may also be limited.

For more information on court records, see ‘Understanding court judgements and orders’.

Additional information

• The Court decides when a case should be closed or sealed
• Restrictions must be applied where necessary to protect people or the justice process