The Public

Some court decisions can have important effects on my life and on the lives of other citizens just like me. It therefore makes sense that I have the right to attend court hearings to make sure that justice is served. I can attend any and all of the hearings in Small Claims Court if I like.

In Small Claims Court, there usually aren’t huge crowds waiting to hear the cases. The files dealt with here are rarely controversial and aren’t usually that interesting for the general public. Most people present in the courtroom are there because they are waiting for their turn to be heard by the judge.

Whether I am a witness, an expert, a representative, a party or just a casual observer, I can stay in the courtroom as long as I respect decorum. The moment the judge enters the room, I have to stand up and stay standing until she sits down and the court usher invites the other people present to be seated. Afterword, I must remain silent; I can’t talk to the person sitting beside me or express my approval or disapproval at what’s happening in the courtroom. It is important for justice to occur in a calm and impartial setting.

When the judge leaves the courtroom, I must stand again and wait for her to leave before moving from my place. During the hearing, I must avoid entering and exiting the courtroom. If I want to get ready for my own case, I can go outside, into the hallway. If I need a table, a chair and some privacy, there are small rooms available just for that purpose, right near the courtroom.

Journalists are also allowed to be present in the courtroom, but they rarely come to Small Claims Court. They provide people with information about what happens during the hearings and about the evidence that is presented there.

The public aspect of our justice system is fundamentally important. The fact that we, as citizens, can be present in the courtrooms to watch what happens in the different cases, assures us that the rules of law are being correctly applied and that justice occurs equally for everyone.