NCTJ Court Reporting Practice Exam

In what year was the statute affirming the common law rule of open justice established?

1. 1901

2. 1913

3. 1920

4. 1931

The correct answer is: 1913

The statute affirming the common law rule of open justice was established in 1913. This was a significant development, as it formalized the principle that court proceedings should be open to the public, supporting transparency and accountability in the legal system. The aim was to ensure that justice is not only done but is also seen to be done, thereby fostering public trust in the judicial process. This principle has its roots in common law but the 1913 statute helped to clarify and legally affirm the open justice doctrine, reinforcing the idea that the public has a right to observe court proceedings. This transparency is critical for maintaining oversight of judicial proceedings and protecting against arbitrary exercises of power.