Communication Type In Trial: Ethnography Communication In Indonesian Criminal Courtroom Process

The purpose of this study is to explore and describe the levels of communication that occur during criminal trials, specifically focusing on the indictment, examination, prosecution, and verdict hearings. Employing a qualitative approach, this research utilizes Dell Hymes' ethnography of communication framework to analyze courtroom interactions. Data were collected through interviews with nine informants and observations of trials at the Central Jakarta District Court. The findings reveal that courtroom communication is a complex process involving multiple participants, including law enforcement officials, defendants, witnesses, victims, security personnel, family members, media, and the public. These interactions occur across all trial stages and are classified into four distinct levels of communication: (1) core communication among law enforcement, (2) triangular communication between legal professionals, (3) examination communication involving defendants and witnesses, and (4) broader courtroom communication encompassing all trial participants. The study concludes that these levels of communication are critical in shaping the outcomes of legal proceedings. The findings underscore the importance of effective communication in ensuring fairness and efficiency in trials. The study also highlights areas where improvements in judicial communication practices could enhance the overall integrity of the legal process. The study's implications suggest that enhancing communication strategies among courtroom participants could lead to more equitable and transparent legal proceedings.