Legal Definitions - in camera

In camera is a legal term referring to a private session held before a judge, where the public and press are excluded. This type of proceeding is conducted confidentially, often within the judge's chambers or a closed courtroom, to address sensitive matters that require secrecy or protection from public disclosure.

Courts typically use in camera proceedings when dealing with information that could be harmful, prejudicial, or compromise privacy if revealed publicly. This ensures that justice can be administered while safeguarding sensitive details.

Here are some examples of when a court might conduct an in camera proceeding:

• Protecting a Vulnerable Witness: Imagine a family court case where a child is asked to testify about sensitive personal experiences. To shield the child from the stress and potential trauma of a public courtroom, the judge might decide to hear the child's testimony in camera. This allows the judge to gather crucial information in a private, less intimidating setting, with only essential parties present, ensuring the child's well-being is prioritized.

• Reviewing Confidential Business Information: In a complex commercial dispute, one company might claim that certain documents contain highly valuable trade secrets or proprietary business strategies. If these documents were revealed in open court, it could cause irreparable financial harm. The judge might review these specific documents in camera to determine their relevance and whether they are truly protected from public disclosure, without exposing them to competitors or the general public.

• Assessing National Security Information: In a criminal trial involving matters of national security, prosecutors might possess classified information or details about confidential informants that cannot be publicly disclosed without jeopardizing ongoing investigations or national safety. The judge may hold an in camera hearing with only the legal teams present to review this sensitive material, ensuring that the defendant's rights are protected while also safeguarding critical security interests.