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An essential element of democracy is transparency of its governmental functions. At the local level, deliberations by elected representatives, with a few exceptions, must be made in a setting open to public scrutiny. City councils, governing boards and special districts not only hold meetings in public venues, but also record actions taken. While meeting times may not be convenient for everyone, agendas are published in advance. Live streaming and video recordings create alternative opportunities to observe discussions and actions taken.
The executive branch of local government is typically represented by a mayor and/or general manager at these meetings as well as legal advice from the judicial branch. However, legal proceedings present a different challenge. While under investigation and waiting for adjudication, assertions of wrongdoing and damages that may not be corroborated (and ultimately dismissed), can cause irrevocable damage to reputations, endanger participants and create negative impressions. To preserve the assumption of innocence, many aspects of a case leading to trial and/or judgement are subject to rules of privacy.
Recent developments at regional and national levels have created heightened awareness of the unique position of our legal system. Based on the premise that all citizens are equal in a court of law, actions by some judges have raised concerns of political bias in legal interpretations and rulings. Allowance must be made for the human element that can influence court demeanor, but as representatives of justice for all, courtrooms are at the root of democracy. Those entrusted with legal proceedings shoulder a monumental responsibility to be models of decorum, propriety and fair application of the law. When this trust is weakened at any level of the judicial system, it threatens our entire societal compact of governance.
Most citizens have little contact with courtrooms and, if serving on juries, are carefully shielded from extreme behavior. Visitors and those who appear in court either as a defendant or plaintiff may have a more comprehensive view of courtroom behavior. In this wild, wacky world of partisan politics, courts play a pivotal role as guardians of our rights and freedoms. As such they should come under the same scrutiny as our legislators and executives. How can we expect our courts to behave as neutral arbiters of justice if they are appointed through a political process?
When a judgeship does show up on a ballot, how many citizens know anything about the candidates – qualifications, demeanor and character? Relying on attorney references is suspect since praise or criticism may be tempered by knowledge that if successful, they may face that judge in a courtroom. Some control of legal proceedings at the local level is possible as attorneys are subject to boards or councils. Judges in courtrooms rule with few observers and controls. Flagrant violations of law may be handled by a bar association and or the legal system, but erratic behavior and poor rulings can be problematic. For those who either need to seek costly review by a higher court, the alternative is to simply retreat. In such cases, transparency is nonexistent.
Is it time to review how our justice system is organized and judges are selected? Is there a better way to assure transparency within the legal system through televised proceedings or other electronic means? How will participant rights to privacy be retained?
How about a pilot program to televise legal proceedings in a myriad of courtrooms, not made for television dramas. This would test the question of whether this would be instructive and beneficial for the general public without harming court proceedings.
“A lack of transparency results in distrust and a deep sense of insecurity.”
- Dalai Lama
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