CONFIDENTIAL IDENTITY IN CERTAIN ACTIONS.

(a) In this section, "confidential identity" means:

(1) the use of a pseudonym; and

(2) the absence of any other identifying information, including address, telephone number, and social security number.

(b) Except as otherwise provided by this section, in a suit brought under this chapter, the court shall:

(1) make it known to the claimant as early as possible in the proceedings of the suit that the claimant may use a confidential identity in relation to the suit;

(2) allow a claimant to use a confidential identity in all petitions, filings, and other documents presented to the court;

(3) use the confidential identity in all of the court's proceedings and records relating to the suit, including any appellate proceedings; and

(4) maintain the records relating to the suit in a manner that protects the confidentiality of the claimant.

(c) In a suit brought under this chapter, only the following persons are entitled to know the true identifying information about the claimant:

(1) the judge;

(2) a party to the suit;

(3) the attorney representing a party to the suit; and

(4) a person authorized by a written order of a court specific to that person.

(d) The court shall order that a person entitled to know the true identifying information under Subsection (c) may not divulge that information to anyone without a written order of the court. A court shall hold a person who violates the order in contempt.

(e) Repealed by Acts 2025, 89th Leg., 2nd C.S., Ch. 7 (H.B. 16), Sec. 12.10(16), eff. December 4, 2025.

(f) A claimant is not required to use a confidential identity as provided by this section.