Legal Definitions - chamber business

Chamber business refers to official legal matters and decisions that a judge handles outside of a formal courtroom setting. This typically occurs in a judge's private office, known as their chambers, or another designated private space, rather than during a public court session.

Here are some examples to illustrate this concept:

• Example 1: Granting a Procedural Extension

  Imagine a defense attorney in a complex criminal case needs more time to review newly disclosed evidence. The attorney files a motion requesting an extension to file a response. The judge reviews this motion and any opposition from the prosecution from their private chambers. Without requiring the attorneys to appear in open court, the judge issues an order either granting or denying the extension.

  This is an example of chamber business because the judge is performing an official judicial act (deciding on a procedural motion) from their private office, outside of a public courtroom hearing.

• Example 2: Approving an Emergency Search Warrant

  Late one evening, a police detective gathers critical evidence suggesting a suspect is about to destroy crucial items. The detective urgently needs a search warrant approved by a judge to act immediately. The detective contacts a judge, who reviews the warrant application and supporting affidavit from their home or chambers, often outside of regular court hours. The judge then signs the warrant, authorizing the search.

  This illustrates chamber business because the judge is carrying out a vital judicial duty (authorizing a search warrant) in a private, non-courtroom setting, often due to the time-sensitive nature of the request.

• Example 3: Signing a Settlement Order

  In a civil lawsuit, the two parties involved reach a confidential agreement to settle their dispute out of court. They draft a settlement agreement and present it to the presiding judge for final approval and to formally close the case. The judge reviews the terms of the settlement in their chambers to ensure it is legally sound and then signs the order dismissing the case based on the settlement.

  This is chamber business because the judge is performing an official judicial function (approving a settlement and signing a dismissal order) from their private office, without the need for a public hearing or appearance in the courtroom.