NCTJ Court Reporting Practice Exam

Which section of which act stipulates that magistrates must conduct trials in open court?

1. Section 121 of the Youth Justice Act

2. Section 121 of the Magistrates Court Act

3. Section 47 of the Criminal Justice Act

4. Section 45 of the Court Procedures Act

The correct answer is: Section 121 of the Magistrates Court Act

The correct choice indicates that Section 121 of the Magistrates Court Act specifies that magistrates are required to conduct trials in open court. This principle is rooted in the importance of transparency and public access to the judicial process, which are fundamental tenets of a fair legal system. Open court proceedings allow for scrutiny by the public and the media, thereby promoting accountability of the judiciary and ensuring that justice is seen to be done. The choice highlighting this section reflects the legal requirement for magistrates to uphold these principles, ensuring that trials are not held in secrecy. This provision is crucial in maintaining public confidence in the legal system and supporting the notion that justice should be open and accessible to everyone. The other options refer to legislation that does not address the requirement for open court proceedings in the context of magistrates. Each of those sections may cover different aspects of legal procedures, but they do not focus on the stipulation for open trials, thus making the chosen answer the most relevant and accurate for the question posed.