What term refers to the practice of allowing public attendance at preliminary hearings?

The term that accurately refers to the practice of allowing public attendance at preliminary hearings is known as the "open court rule." This principle is grounded in the belief that court proceedings should be transparent and accessible to the public, ensuring accountability and fairness in the judicial process. The open court rule promotes the idea that justice should not only be done but should also be seen to be done, allowing spectators to observe preliminary hearings, which can contribute to public trust in the legal system.

While the term "access by spectators" conveys the essence of public attendance, it does not formally encapsulate the broader legal principle as effectively as the open court rule. This concept emphasizes the foundation of openness in court proceedings rather than merely describing who can attend. The other options, including "private hearings" and "public access law," describe different contexts or aspects that do not align specifically with the established rule regarding preliminary hearings.