By JIM BUTLER 

The Diocese of Alexandria is seeking a protective order guaranteeing confidentiality of some information likely to be involved in resolution of its bankruptcy petition. 

Filed Monday, the motion refers specifically to such as financial information and records involving employment and personnel files, and information regarding sexual abuse claims. 

The Diocese filed Chapter 11 pleadings on October 31, citing the anticipated impact of sexual abuse claims on its financial stability. 

Such orders have been issued in some jurisdictions where similar claims were at issue, including the Diocese of New Orleans. 

Attorneys for the Alexandria Diocese cite a potential for abuse through the media if the materials in question are in the public record. 

The information of specific concern is that likely to come through the discovery process between the Diocese counsel and that of its creditors and those alleging abuse. 

Bankruptcy code rules provide protection from “annoyance, embarrassment, oppression, or undue burden or expense,” the motion notes, as well as protection from disclosure of “scandalous or defamatory matters” without need to balance public and private interests. 

Sealing discovery does not affect public access to required bankruptcy reports and information. 

The Diocese requests an expedited hearing on the motion.