Legal Definitions - open

In legal terms, "open" describes something that is readily apparent, publicly known, visible, or a matter that remains unresolved and accessible. It signifies a lack of secrecy, a state of being exposed to scrutiny, or an ongoing situation that has not yet reached a final conclusion.

• Example 1: Publicly Apparent Violation

  A construction company was cited for an open safety hazard on their worksite, where a large trench was left unmarked and unfenced, clearly visible to passersby on the sidewalk.

  This illustrates "open" as something manifest and apparent. The hazard was not hidden or concealed; it was obvious and easily observable by anyone in the vicinity, making it a clear violation.

• Example 2: Accessible Public Records

  After a local government election, all campaign finance reports were made open to public inspection, allowing citizens to review how candidates raised and spent their money.

  Here, "open" means visible and exposed to public view. The records were not clandestine; they were made available for anyone to examine, promoting transparency and accountability.

• Example 3: Unresolved Legal Matter

  The prosecutor announced that the investigation into the recent embezzlement scheme remains open, indicating that authorities are still actively gathering evidence and have not yet filed charges or closed the case.

  In this context, "open" signifies that the matter is not closed, settled, or terminated. The investigation is ongoing, active, and has not reached a final resolution.