Legal Definitions - approach

Approach

Approach refers to moving towards the bench, witness, or jury box in court. It means to go closer to someone or something in a legal setting. For example, an attorney may approach the bench to have a conversation with the judge and opposing counsel off the record and out of the jury's earshot. An attorney or juror must ask for permission from the judge to approach by saying "your honor, may I approach the bench?"

During a trial, a lawyer may approach the witness to ask them questions. They may also approach the jury box to address the jurors. In People v. Maher, 89 N.Y.2d 318 (1996), two prospective jurors asked to approach the bench after the trial to ask the judge a question.

Another example is when a lawyer approaches the bench to discuss a legal issue with the judge and opposing counsel. This conversation is usually off the record and out of the jury's earshot.

The examples illustrate how approach is used in a legal setting. It means to move closer to someone or something, usually in order to ask a question or have a conversation. In court, an attorney or juror must ask for permission from the judge to approach. This is to ensure that everyone in the courtroom can hear what is being said and that the proceedings are fair.