IC 5-14-2-1: Definitions

Sec. 1. As used in this chapter:

"Criminal action" means a prosecution initiated in the name of the state of Indiana against an accused alleging the commission of a felony or misdemeanor.

"Criminal proceedings" means court proceedings in a criminal action after the arrest of an accused and before any appeal is instituted; it does not include:

(1) the deliberations of juries;

(2) omnibus hearings except for those portions at which witnesses are sworn and testimony taken; or

(3) any proceeding in which rights of attendance by the general public are otherwise specifically governed by statute or rules of procedure.

"General public" means any individual, or group of individuals, but does not include the parties to the criminal action.

"Open to attendance" means that individuals have the right freely to attend and observe criminal proceedings.

"Rules of procedure" means rules adopted by the supreme court of Indiana.