Document sealing is a legal process that restricts access to certain court documents. This is often done to protect sensitive information, such as personal data or trade secrets, from public disclosure. When a document is sealed, only authorized individuals, like the parties involved in a case or their attorneys, can view it. The sealing of documents is typically requested by one of the parties in a legal proceeding and must be approved by a judge. This process ensures that privacy rights are upheld while still allowing the judicial system to function effectively. Common examples of sealed documents include divorce records and bankruptcy filings.