NCTJ Court Reporting Practice Exam

Which court case is significant in establishing the principle of open justice?

1. R v. R

2. Scott v. Scott

3. R v. Brown

4. R v. Turner

The correct answer is: Scott v. Scott

The significance of Scott v. Scott lies in its profound impact on the principle of open justice. In this landmark case, the House of Lords addressed the importance of transparency in legal proceedings, stating that justice should not only be done but should also be seen to be done. This principle is crucial for maintaining public confidence in the judicial system, as it allows for scrutiny of the courts and ensures accountability. The case revolved around the use of confidential hearings in family law, where it was determined that closed hearings could undermine the public's understanding of how justice is administered. The ruling emphasized that, except in exceptional circumstances, court proceedings should be open to the public and the media, reinforcing the democratic values of transparency and accountability within the legal system. This case set a precedent that remains influential in discussions about open justice today. In contrast, other cases listed may touch on various legal principles but do not specifically focus on establishing or reinforcing the concept of open justice in the same manner that Scott v. Scott does.