Public Access
/ˈpʌblɪk ˈæksɛs/
Definitions
- (n.) The legal right or ability of the general public to enter, use, or benefit from certain lands, buildings, documents, or information.
The statute ensures public access to government records for transparency.
- (n.) The principle that the public should be allowed entry to government meetings, hearings, or proceedings.
Public access to court hearings promotes fairness and accountability.
Related terms
Commentary
Public access rights often vary by jurisdiction and context—such as access to land, information, or proceedings—and legal provisions frequently balance these rights against privacy or security concerns.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.