NCTJ Court Reporting Practice Exam

Which act regulates the use of audio-recording devices in court?

1. The Contempt of Court Act 1971

2. The Contempt of Court Act 1981

3. The Criminal Justice Act 1988

4. The Criminal Procedure Rules 2010

The correct answer is: The Contempt of Court Act 1981

The correct answer is the Contempt of Court Act 1981, which specifically addresses the use of audio-recording devices in court settings. This act was introduced to ensure that court proceedings maintain their integrity and to protect the administration of justice, particularly by regulating the recording of hearings. It establishes guidelines and restrictions on how these devices can be used, promoting transparency while also safeguarding the rights of the defendants and other participants in the legal process. The 1981 Act follows up on earlier legislation and is a response to the increasing presence of media and technology in the courtroom. It balances the public's right to access information with the need for order and decorum during legal proceedings. In contrast, the Contempt of Court Act 1971 does not specifically cover audio-recording devices; instead, it encompasses broader issues of publishing information that could prejudice court proceedings. The Criminal Justice Act 1988 focuses primarily on criminal procedure, penalties, and sentencing, rather than on the regulations surrounding recording devices in court. Lastly, while the Criminal Procedure Rules 2010 provide guidelines for court procedures, they are not primarily aimed at regulating audio-recording devices and do not replace the legal framework set forth by the Contempt of Court Act 1981.