The Courtroom Several cases are usually heard in the same courtroom on a given day, and all witnesses testifying in the cases are summoned to appear at the same time. Consequently, it is virtually impossible to established a precise timetable for the day. You will undoubtedly have to wait before testifying. Before the proceedings in which you must testifying begin, you will probably be asked to leave the courtroom and wait outside until called, to avoid your being influenced by the version of events given by those who precede you. However, after you have testified, you can usually remain in the courtroom if you wish.
Legal proceedings are usually open to the public.
However, the judge may, on his own initiative or at the request of one of the attorneys, order the case to be heard in camera if he deems it in the interest of the administration of justice or the maintenance of order. The public is excluded and a ban is placed on publishing information on what occurs or is said in court. In trials involving sexual offences, extortion and usurious loans a number of special rules apply. In such cases, the victim and witnesses under 18 years of age may ask the judge to prohibit the publication of their identity and any information making it possible to identify them. The Attorney General's prosecutor may also make such a request on their behalf.