In the video below I discuss the basics of filing a motion to impound court documents in Massachusetts.
As discussed in the video, the impoundment process is set forth in the Uniform Rules on Impoundment Procedure (URIP).
Generally, to impound confidential documents you must submit
- a motion describing “(i) the material sought to be impounded, (ii) the duration for which impoundment is sought, (iii) the reasons impoundment is necessary, and (iv) the reasons other alternatives to impoundment will not afford adequate protection.” See URIP Rule 2.
- an affidavit supporting your motion. The affidavit should comply with the requirements of the rules of civil procedure or the rules of criminal procedure, depending on the nature of the case. Again, See URIP Rule 2.
- proposed findings of good cause to order impoundment. See URIP Rules 2 and 8.
- a proposed order to be signed by the judge directing the clerk’s office to impound the document(s) at issue. URIP Rules 2 and 8. Thankfully the rules provide a template for the proposed order. A copy of that template is attached below.