Massachusetts § 5D - Trade secrets, confidential information; protection from disclosure; burden of proof
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 5D — Trade secrets, confidential information; protection from disclosure; burden of proof, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5D. Trade secrets, confidential information; protection from disclosure; burden of proof
Section 5D. Notwithstanding the provisions of clause Twenty-sixth of section seven of chapter four and section ten of chapter sixty-six, the department may protect from public disclosure, trade secrets, confidential, competitively sensitive or other proprietary information provided in the course of proceedings conducted pursuant to this chapter. There shall be a presumption that the information for which such protection is sought is public information and the burden shall be upon the proponent of such protection to prove the need for such protection. Where such a need has been found to exist, the department shall protect only so much of the information as is necessary to meet such need. The department shall promulgate procedural rules and regulations consistent with this section as it deems necessary to implement the provisions hereof.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 5D
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 5D cover?
Section 5D ("Trade secrets, confidential information; protection from disclosure; burden of proof") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Massachusetts § 5D?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 5D" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.
How does Massachusetts § 5D apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.