Confidential Identity In Certain Actions

Sec. 98B.008. CONFIDENTIAL IDENTITY IN CERTAIN ACTIONS. (a) In this section, "confidential identity" means: (1) the use of a pseudonym; and (2) the absence of any other identifying information, including address, telephone number, and social security number. (b) Except as otherwise provided by this section, in a suit brought under this chapter, the court shall: (1) make it known to the claimant as early as possible in the proceedings of the suit that the claimant may use a confidential identity in relation to the suit; (2) allow a claimant to use a confidential identity in all petitions, filings, and other documents presented to the court; (3) use the confidential identity in all of the court's proceedings and records relating to the suit, including any appellate proceedings; and (4) maintain the records relating to the suit in a manner that protects the confidentiality of the claimant. (c) In a suit brought under this chapter, only the following persons are entitled to know the true identifying information about the claimant: (1) the judge; (2) a party to the suit; (3) the attorney representing a party to the suit; and (4) a person authorized by a written order of a court specific to that person. (d) The court shall order that a person entitled to know the true identifying information under Subsection (c) may not divulge that information to anyone without a written order of the court. A court shall hold a person who violates the order in contempt. (e) Repealed by Acts 2025, 89th Leg., 2nd C.S., Ch. 7 (H.B. 16), Sec. 12.10(16), eff. December 4, 2025. (f) A claimant is not required to use a confidential identity as provided by this section. Added by Acts 2025, 89th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1133 (S.B. 441), Sec. 6, eff. September 1, 2025. Amended by: Acts 2025, 89th Leg., 2nd C.S., Ch. 7 (H.B. 16), Sec. 12.10(16), eff. December 4, 2025.