Intra Management Solutions, Inc. v. Schnairsohn
0:24-cv-61334
S.D. Fla.Sep 4, 2024Background
- Plaintiff Intra Management Solutions, Inc. sought to file exhibits under seal in connection with a forthcoming preliminary injunction hearing against Defendant Eric Schnairsohn.
- The exhibits included information about non-party individuals, including current/former/prospective employees, client and customer details (many of whom are federal contractors), and allegedly defamatory statements.
- Plaintiff argued that public access to these exhibits could result in reputational harm and privacy concerns for both the company and its associates.
- The court previously granted a temporary restraining order and scheduled a preliminary injunction hearing.
- The motion at issue specifically involved whether the identified exhibits could remain sealed prior to, and possibly after, the preliminary injunction hearing.
Issues
| Issue | Plaintiff's Argument | Defendant's Argument | Held |
|---|---|---|---|
| Should certain exhibits be filed under seal ahead of the preliminary injunction hearing? | Sealing is necessary to protect privacy of non-parties, prevent reputational harm, and protect sensitive business/client information. | (Not specified in the order; motion decided on written submissions.) | Granted: Plaintiff may file specified exhibits under seal prior to hearing, with revisit possible after hearing. |
Key Cases Cited
- Chi. Tribune Co. v. Bridgestone/Firestone, Inc., 263 F.3d 1304 (11th Cir. 2001) (common-law right of public access to judicial proceedings is an essential part of justice)
- Brown v. Advantage Eng'g, Inc., 960 F.2d 1013 (11th Cir. 1992) (court filings are presumptively public record, may only be sealed for good cause)
- Farnsworth v. Proctor & Gamble, 758 F.2d 1545 (11th Cir. 1985) (courts must balance public and private interests when deciding to seal records)
- Perez-Guerrero v. U.S. Att'y Gen., 717 F.3d 1224 (11th Cir. 2013) (discretion of courts in sealing court records should be exercised based on case facts)
- Romero v. Drummond Co., Inc., 480 F.3d 1234 (11th Cir. 2007) (sets out factors for balancing confidentiality with public right of access)