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Protective Order
A protective order is a court command that restricts how parties can use or share sensitive information during a lawsuit to prevent harm or unfair advantage.
What it actually is
In a lawsuit, protective orders typically limit access to confidential documents (like trade secrets or private records) and set rules for who can see them and how they must be handled. They appear early in the case, often in a discovery dispute, and are issued by the judge to balance the need for information against privacy or competitive interests.
Why it matters in your case
If you are in a case, a protective order can prevent the other side from publicly disclosing your private or proprietary information, saving you from reputational or economic harm. It also forces the other party to follow strict handling procedures, which can reduce the risk of leaks or misuse of evidence.
The common misunderstanding
Many people confuse a protective order with a restraining order—but a restraining order protects a person from physical threats, while a protective order in litigation protects information from misuse. Also, a protective order does not automatically seal court records; sealing requires a separate motion.
Get the actual rule
Definitions are orientation; rules are authority
This page explains the concept. When it matters to your case, read the rule that governs it in your court — we hold Texas, federal and Washington court rules word for word, and every state's official resources are on the state pages. If someone cites a case at you, check that it exists first.
Related
Terms that travel with this one
General explanation, not legal advice, and not specific to any state — procedures and deadlines vary by jurisdiction and court. If you can get a lawyer or free legal aid, do: every real option.