In today’s technology-savvy society, keeping your divorce a private matter feels impossible. But although Ohio divorce records are out in the public under the Ohio Revised Code, there may be exemptions to this rule. As long as you can present clear and compelling evidence to support your request, convincing the court to protect your right to privacy may be possible.
Legitimate privacy interests
There is a legal presumption that there must be public transparency by allowing the public to access court records. But your divorce may be under seal for the following reasons:
- If you need to protect your child from being identified
- If you need to protect business proprietary information
- If you need to protect a domestic violence victim
- If you need to protect classified information, such as bank account details and other financial negotiations
Sometimes, the judge may uphold both your right to privacy and the public’s right to know. They do this by sealing only a sensitive portion of your record and disclosing the rest of the information to the public.
Further, the standards for public officials and other influential individuals remain controversial due to precedent cases of sealing politicians’ divorces. Opposing groups contend that there is a more urgent need for transparency in their situation and that the rules must equally apply to all divorcing couples.
Additionally, some couples find that the confidentiality of divorce mediation is the appropriate approach for their circumstances than undergoing a litigious court-based process.
Out of the public eye
As overwhelming as it is due to the heavy burden of proof, you may still try to file your Ohio divorce under seal. If you want to afford your loved ones’ necessary protection, seek a legal divorce advocate’s help to ensure your and your family’s right to privacy.
