my friends and I have a gd friend who was arrested recently and he goes to trial at the end of December. Is it ok if we just walk in when the trial starts and watch or can we not go if we're not invited?
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Answers & Comments
The Constitution of the US (and probably your state) guarantees to all persons the right to a fair and public speedy trial. (US Constitution, Amendment VI). The Supreme Court of the US has said repeatedly that a fair and public trial is one of the cornerstones of due process. This means that anyone can be present at a trial, as long as they aren't disrupting the proceedings. (There are some exceptions, such as juvenile proceedings, etc).
Unless you are being called as a witness and are under an order of sequestration (i.e. to prevent you from hearing other testimony), you may certainally attend the trial.
Go and watch and listen and learn. If you're not on the witness list, and the courtroom is not packed to overflowing, or the judge has not closed the courtroom for some special reason, it's a public trial. It is important not only that justice be done, but that it be seen to be done. Just be polite to everybody and sit quietly.
Unless it's in juvenile court, court proceedings are almost always open to the public. If you have been subpoenaed as a witness, you may also be excluded.
Yes, you can go and watch the trial. All adult courts have public galleries.
Call up and ask the court (wherever it is located.).....It is very simple. Don't ask strangers on the internet please when a simple phone call will get you your answer. Good luck.