What is the function of a protective order in civil procedure?

A protective order serves the vital function of safeguarding a party from having to disclose certain information that may be deemed sensitive, confidential, or irrelevant during the discovery process in civil litigation. This legal tool is commonly employed when one party believes that the requested information could lead to embarrassment, harassment, or an infringement on privacy. By issuing a protective order, the court limits or restricts the scope of discovery, ensuring that only necessary and appropriate information is revealed while protecting sensitive data from being disclosed publicly.

In this context, the other options do not accurately represent the purpose of a protective order. For instance, while expediting the trial process is an important aspect of civil procedure, it is not the primary function of a protective order. Additionally, awarding damages falls under the purview of the court during a trial or based on settlement discussions, but it is unrelated to the protective measures regarding information disclosure. Lastly, securing the courtroom from disruptions is an important aspect of maintaining order during proceedings but does not encompass the protective order's role in managing discovery and information sharing between parties.