Tried to seal the drama? Courts want more than just a bad vibe on your résumé.

In Rayant v. Marino, the Second Appellate District reinforced California's strong presumption of open court records. After a civil harassment restraining order was issued (and later dismissed), the defendant asked to seal the entire court file, citing reputational harm and TSA headaches. But the court wasn’t buying it. Under California Rules of Court 2.550 and 2.551, sealing records requires showing a compelling interest, a probability of prejudice, and that sealing is the least restrictive option. Rayant brought concerns—but not concrete evidence.

The takeaway? If your client wants to bury a public record, courts need more than career anxiety and travel stress. Our litigation support team helps attorneys navigate public access fights—and build real, rule-compliant sealing arguments that stick.