February, 2010

Gravel and Shea Obtains Release of Sealed Records

Robert B. Hemley and Matthew B. Byrne successfully argued for the release of a search warrant executed on a Rutland City police officer. Representing the Rutland Herald, a locally-owned newspaper, Messrs. Hemley and Byrne argued that the public had a right to access for judicial documents, including search warrants and related documents. The Court agreed to release the search warrant and is continuing to consider whether the identity of the Rutland City police officer should be released. Gravel and Shea's successful First Amendment practice has earned it statewide and national recognition as the leading Vermont firm in that area. Over the years, Gravel and Shea has successfully argued in favor of access to public records and proceedings on behalf of numerous media, fought subpoenas issued to the media, and defended libel and privacy actions.

A copy of a news story related to argument and the search warrant can be found at the following link: http://www.rutlandherald.com/article/20100210/News04/2100362/1002/News01