Navigating Privacy in Public Lawsuits

For some firms, a lawsuit is just a case number. For us, it’s personal. At Brotman Nusbaum Ibrahim & Adelman, we fight for real people who’ve been hurt—and we also help you understand the ripple effects that can come with filing a case, including what may become part of the public record. 

What Typically Becomes Public

When you file a lawsuit, certain documents—like complaints, motions, and court orders—are usually filed with the court. In many jurisdictions, those filings can be accessed by the public either online or at the courthouse. That means reporters, employers, or other interested parties may be able to review parts of your case. While every matter is unique, it’s important to go in with clear expectations about what could be visible to others.

What Isn’t Automatically Exposed

Not everything is fair game. Courts can seal or redact sensitive details in specific situations (for example, cases involving minors, trade secrets, or highly personal information). These protections aren’t automatic—you have to ask for them, and you need to show the court why they’re appropriate. That’s where strategic planning with your lawyer matters.

Smart, Early Protective Strategies

Before you file, we’ll talk about your privacy priorities and explore options to reduce unnecessary exposure, such as:

• Tailoring pleadings to avoid gratuitous personal detail

• Seeking protective orders during discovery

• Requesting redactions or, where warranted, moving to seal portions of the record

Thoughtful strategy on day one can minimize headaches later.

How BNI&A Supports You—Beyond the Courtroom

• Personal attention, real communication. Our team is committed to justice and dedicated to your needs, not to insurance companies. You’ll get clear guidance on what’s public, what isn’t, and how to protect your interests at every step.

• Confidential consultations. Your first meeting with us is free, and what you share with our attorneys is protected by attorney–client privilege—so you can speak freely as we assess your options. 

• Accessible in multiple languages. Members of our team speak Spanish, and you can also speak with us in Creole, Portuguese, French, or Arabic. We’re here for South Florida’s diverse communities. 

• Contingency-fee representation. In injury matters we don’t get paid unless you recover—so our goals are aligned with yours. 

Local Insight Matters

Public-access rules and local court practices can vary. As a Florida-based firm serving Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade, and beyond—and with attorneys licensed in Florida and Illinois—we understand how these issues play out on the ground and can advise you accordingly. 

The Bottom Line

Filing a lawsuit is a powerful step toward accountability—but it comes with trade-offs. If privacy is a concern, don’t wait. The best time to plan is before you file.

Have questions about what could become public in your case? Contact Brotman Nusbaum Ibrahim & Adelman for a free, confidential case evaluation at (561) 417-5656 or request your Free Consultation on our website. (Brotman Nusbaum Ibrahim & Adelman)

 

This post is for general information only and isn’t legal advice. Talk with an attorney about your specific situation. (Brotman Nusbaum Ibrahim & Adelman)