No Closed Trial, Pseudonymity at Trial, or Audio-Only Testimony for Billion-Dollar Maine Lottery Winner

Reason

April 11, 2025

A federal court in Maine has issued a decision reaffirming the public’s right of access and emphasizing the vital role of the press in monitoring the courts. The decision denied a request by a billion-dollar Maine State Lottery winner to conduct a closed trial, remain anonymous, and provide audio-only testimony, reasoning that personal wealth does not justify restricting public access to judicial proceedings. Attorneys Sigmund Schutz and Alexandra Harriman of Preti Flaherty represented Intervenor Maine Trust for Local News, along with Professor Eugene Volokh.

To read the full press coverage, click here.

Continuing Coverage

"Maine’s $1B lottery winner will have to reveal his identity if privacy case goes to trial," Portland Press Herald, April 15, 2025

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