NCTJ Court Reporting Practice Exam

What societal benefit does open justice primarily promote?

1. Increased governmental power

2. Public confidence in the criminal justice system

3. Enhanced privacy for defendants

4. Minimized media coverage

The correct answer is: Public confidence in the criminal justice system

Open justice primarily promotes public confidence in the criminal justice system. This principle ensures that court proceedings are accessible and transparent, allowing members of the public to observe the legal process. When people can witness the workings of the justice system firsthand, it fosters trust and reassurance that justice is being served fairly and impartially. Transparency in how cases are handled helps to demystify judicial proceedings, making the system more relatable and understandable to the community. The correct response highlights a crucial aspect of open justice: the belief that public scrutiny acts as a check against arbitrary or unjust legal practices. This connection between openness and trust is vital for the legitimacy of the justice system in the eyes of the community, encouraging individuals to have faith in the processes and outcomes of legal proceedings. In contrast, other choices do not align with the core goal of open justice. For example, increased governmental power could potentially undermine the very essence of an open and fair legal system, while enhanced privacy for defendants might conflict with the public's right to know about judicial processes. Similarly, minimized media coverage would reduce public scrutiny and engagement, which are fundamental to fostering confidence in justice.