Smith v. Smith
New Jersey Superior Court, Chancery Division
879 A.2d 768 (2004)
- Written by Laura Julien, JD
Facts
In October 2003, Karla Smith (plaintiff) filed a divorce complaint against Scott Smith (defendant). In December, Karla and Scott were separated. In 2004 Karla sought judicial approval to relocate with her two minor children outside of New Jersey. The relocation was requested because Karla’s parents, who were wealthy business owners and philanthropists, offered her a job in South Carolina. Scott challenged Karla’s request to relocate with their children, alleging that Karla’s parents and sister drank excessive amounts of alcohol and that their drinking would place the minor children in danger. Karla denied the allegations, contending that they were unsupported and motivated by spite. Before trial, Karla’s parents filed a motion requesting that the trial court seal all portions of the case file that made reference to them. Specifically, they contended that the allegations regarding their drinking, although baseless, could be damaging to the family’s reputation and adversely affect their business and philanthropic activities.
Rule of Law
Issue
Holding and Reasoning (Sabatino, J.)
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