Saturday, August 7, 2010

Are criminal court cases available for public viewing at the courthouse?

If so, how soon after a trial is the info available?Are criminal court cases available for public viewing at the courthouse?
Unless they are sealed, court records are public records and available from the court clerk's office.





Depends on what you are looking for as to how soon it is available.Are criminal court cases available for public viewing at the courthouse?
yes and no
You can view the trial as it happens. Just show up at the courthouse before the trial begins, walk into the courtroom and have a seat.
Most trials are open. You can go and sit in. I doubt many are taped, if any, which seems to be what you're asking.
Most cases are open to the public but some criminal matters and all juvenile matters are sealed, meaning that only the parties are allowed in the courtroom. Some courts list the daily calendar on their website.
The us constitution guarantees ';In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and PUBLIC trial';.


So Yes basically all criminal trials are open to the public. This is of course subject to practical limitations for example the court room may be to small to accommodate everyone etc etc.
You can go %26amp; watch criminal cases unless closed by judge. They will close a rape case or certain murder cases.
Everything is on the docket. You should also be able to go to the Clerk of the Courts website in your county and check things out there as well.

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