NCTJ Court Reporting Practice Exam

What does a Section 11 order protect individuals from according to the outlined precedents?

1. Public ridicule

2. Media exposure

3. Harassment and attack

4. All forms of public scrutiny

The correct answer is: Harassment and attack

A Section 11 order primarily aims to protect individuals from harassment and attack, particularly in legal contexts where there is a risk that their safety could be compromised. The precedents highlight that such orders are often used to ensure that individuals, especially victims or witnesses in sensitive cases, are safeguarded against potential threats and intimidation that may arise as a result of their involvement in legal proceedings. This protection is essential to maintaining the integrity of the judicial process, ensuring that individuals can participate without fear of retaliation or aggressive actions from others, which can be crucial in cases involving sensitive details or emotional trauma. By focusing on harassment and attack, the order serves a specific purpose in prioritizing the well-being and security of those involved in legal matters, thereby facilitating a more just legal process. The emphasis on protecting against harassment and attack differentiates this from more general concerns about public ridicule or media exposure, which do not directly imply threats to personal safety. Thus, the focus of a Section 11 order is on mitigating risks that could lead to harm rather than merely addressing the potential for negative public perception.