What is a protective order issued by a court?

A protective order issued by a court is designed to safeguard specific information from being disclosed publicly or to unauthorized parties. This typically involves sensitive or confidential material, such as trade secrets, personal information, or other proprietary data. The order allows for a temporary withholding of this information to protect the privacy or interests of an individual or entity during legal proceedings. It ensures that the legal process can move forward while minimizing harm or exposure to sensitive issues.

The other options do not accurately describe the nature of a protective order. For instance, a document that provides legal advice pertains more to legal guidance rather than an order regarding confidentiality. A request to dismiss a case is unrelated to the protection of information but rather addresses the termination of legal proceedings. Lastly, a summary of witness testimonies is a compilation of evidence testified in court, not a protective measure concerning sensitive information.