Public access to Case.net expanding next year

The Missouri Supreme Court has approved rule changes paving the way for access to public court records from personal electronic devices starting next year.

The rule changes will not go into effect until July 1, 2023, in part so that attorneys, court staff and parties to keep unnecessary confidential information out of otherwise public documents.

The redaction requirement is not new, but the court said increased public access underscores the need for diligence and care in carrying out that responsibility.

Chief Justice Paul C. Wilson said the Court Automation Committee has been working toward this goal for years.

“Today’s orders will ensure court documents that are currently open to the public will be truly accessible to the public,” he said. “These improvements will fundamentally change the way individuals access public court documents, while balancing the need to protect confidential information and ensure the overall security and reliability of our underlying case management system.”

The expanded access will be available through Case.net and applies only for documents filed on or after July 1, 2023. Documents filed before that date will continue to be available at public access terminals in state courthouses.