In open court is a legal term in the United States defined by the appearance by a party or their attorney in a public court session such as during a trial. Normally, the public may be present at trials, hearings and similar routine matters.

In Constitutional law

In the United States, the Constitution guarantees criminal defendants the right to a "public and speedy trial" under the Sixth and the Fourteenth Amendments. The Sixth Amendment also grants the defendant the right to appear on his or her own behalf.

Distinguishing rules

Appearance in open court is distinguished from an appearance in a judge's chambers.

See also

• Admission
• Confession
• Jurisdiction
• Settlement conference

References