NCTJ Court Reporting Practice Exam

What is one of the eight pieces of information that courts are expected to provide about ongoing or recent cases under the Criminal Procedure Rules 2011?

1. Details of the jury

2. The date of any public hearing

3. Length of proceedings

4. Personal background of the defendant

The correct answer is: The date of any public hearing

One of the key pieces of information that courts are expected to provide about ongoing or recent cases is the date of any public hearing. This is essential for the transparency of the judicial process and allows interested parties, including the media and the public, to stay informed about when cases are being heard. Public hearings are a fundamental aspect of open justice, ensuring that the legal process is not only conducted fairly but is also visible to those who may have an interest in it. By publishing the dates of such hearings, courts facilitate public attendance and scrutiny, which are crucial for maintaining trust and accountability in the legal system. Other options may seem relevant, but they do not comprise the essential information mandated under the Criminal Procedure Rules. Information regarding jury details or personal background of the defendant might involve privacy or legal restrictions, while the length of proceedings typically varies and may not always be a fixed element shared publicly.