in camera

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In camera is a Latin term which literally translates to "in chambers" but carries the meaning "in private". Portions of a case held in camera are held in private before a judge where the press and the public are not allowed to take part.

In camera proceedings are generally deemed less intrusive than public proceedings and are thus often used when dealing with sensitive information. For example, as seen in United States v. Zolin, courts will review in camera to determine if certain communications are covered by attorney-client privilege

[Last updated in January of 2023 by the Wex Definitions Team]