Secret justice conceals risk and can even kill. Back in 2000, consumers began hearing about a number of dreadful vehicle crashes linked to Firestone tires. They learned that although Firestone had recalled six million-plus tires, more than 200 drivers and passengers had died and been injured by Firestone’s products.

A shocking revelation was that although those harmed had sued, reports and information about this hazardous product had been sealed in secret court agreements. Wrongdoers can avoid public exposure by asking judges to approve secret agreements in which victims agree to silence in exchange for compensation. Americans later read newspaper articles about a similar pattern of secret settlements involving…

• Sexually abusive priests in the Catholic Church.
• Systemic autoimmune disease related to leaking silicone breast implants.
• Medical societies protecting incompetent physicians who have repeatedly committed medical malpractice.

Nearly 30 states have passed laws or promulgated court rules to keep such records open to public scrutiny to prevent additional harm or injury. But corporations, defense lawyers, and other backers of court secrecy keep finding new ways to hide serious problems from the clear light of day. Secret justice for the few is no real justice for all.

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