Fact Sheets on Secrecy in the Courts

Limiting Access to Electronic Evidence Could Shrink Consumer Rights, Enable Secrecy

June 1— In several cases of corporate greed run amok, such as the case of Enron, emails were a vital source of evidence. In cases such as those involving Vioxx and Propulsid, electronic information proved essential in uncovering what the drug companies knew about the dangers of their products and how long they knew it. Read more.

Why Oppose Secrecy?

March 18— Secrecy in our state and federal courts undermines the right of every American citizen too know about dangers to their health and safety. This insidious practice keeps vital health and safety information out of the public's reach—and it leads to even more needless injuries and deaths caused by defective products. If we change anything in our civil justice system, it should be this practice, which leads to untold suffering and increased legal costs. Read more.

Court Secrecy's Drug Connection

February 23— new light has been shed on a connection between secrecy practices in the courts and the antidepressant Prozac, manufactured by Eli Lilly & Co. Like defective Firestone tires, infant furniture that can strangle babies, and clergy engaged in child abuse, this is yet another recent example of secret settlements that are used to suppress information on public health and safety hazards. Read more.