There is a strong statutory presumption of public access to the court's files and records which may be overcome only on a compelling showing that the public's right of access is outweighed by the interests of the public and the parties in protecting files, records, or documents from public review.

Nothing in this rule shall be construed to expand or restrict statutory provisions for the sealing of files, records, or documents or those rules promulgated by the Supreme Court or Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts pursuant to the Manual on Recordkeeping.

For purposes of this Local Rule 16, the term "sealing" shall mean to remove all access to the file, record or document except for users authorized by court order. The term "impoundment" shall mean to remove all access to the file, record or document except for users authorized by statute or court order.