Going through a divorce can be a challenging time in anyone’s life. The process is emotionally taxing and can put your personal life in the public eye. This is particularly concerning for people who value their privacy.
If you are going through a divorce in New York, you may wonder if there is a way to keep the details of your divorce private. Thankfully, there are certain steps you can take to protect your privacy.
Use initials or pseudonyms in court documents
One way to protect your identity during divorce proceedings is by using your initials or a pseudonym in court documents. This way, anyone who accesses the public records will not see your full name associated with the case. It requires approval from the judge, but if privacy is a concern, this is a worthwhile step.
Request a sealing order
In some circumstances, you can request a sealing order from the court to keep your divorce records confidential. The court typically grants such orders in cases involving high-net-worth individuals, celebrities or when the documents contain sensitive information. Remember, it is up to the court’s discretion to grant or deny your request.
Negotiate a settlement out of court
Negotiating a divorce settlement out of court with your spouse can also help keep the details of your divorce private. A successful negotiation can result in an uncontested divorce, where the court documents will not include the specifics of your settlement agreement.
Using arbitration or mediation
Arbitration or mediation are alternatives to traditional court proceedings. These methods are confidential and private, as they do not involve the courts. The details discussed during these proceedings, including the final decision, remain between the parties involved and the arbitrator or mediator.
Keeping the details of your New York divorce private requires effort and strategic planning. While it is not possible to guarantee complete privacy, you can take these steps to maintain as much discretion as possible.