Q: My former spouse put a document under seal in our divorce. What criteria does the court use to decide to unseal it?
In Rhode Island
A: Speak with your attorney to evaluate what it is you seek to discover, prove, or reveal with the unsealing of a court record. If you don't have an attorney, find one. FOR EXAMPLE, Under what conditions might you like a judge to order your documents unsealed. If they were sworn financial statements and your X-spouse was alleging some type of fraud - say, based on new evidence, that MAY be a reason to unseal a record. As it is VERY fact specific, you will likely need to consult with an attorney in private.
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