NCTJ Court Reporting Practice Exam

What is a potential consequence of violating the rules of open justice?

1. Increased public trust

2. Reduction in media scrutiny

3. Legal penalties and sanctions

4. Restoration of public confidence in the judiciary

The correct answer is: Legal penalties and sanctions

A potential consequence of violating the rules of open justice is the imposition of legal penalties and sanctions. Open justice is a fundamental principle that ensures court proceedings are conducted transparently and that the public has the right to observe them. This principle serves to maintain accountability within the justice system. When the rules of open justice are violated, such as through closed proceedings without just cause or improper restrictions on media access, it can compromise public confidence in the judicial process. Legal penalties may be enforced against those who breach these rules, which could include fines or disciplinary actions against legal representatives or judges. Sanctions reinforce the importance of transparency and accountability in the legal system, reminding all parties involved that adhering to open justice is essential in upholding the rule of law and public trust. The other options do not accurately reflect the outcomes of violating open justice principles. For instance, violating these rules is more likely to reduce public trust rather than increase it, and it would not naturally lead to a reduction in media scrutiny or a restoration of public confidence in the judiciary. Instead, such violations typically prompt criticism and calls for greater transparency.