The Legal System of the Cayman Islands

As a British Overseas Territory, Cayman's legal proceedings are based on British Common Law, complemented by local legislation. This framework restrains media coverage of investigations and court hearings under what is referred to as the sub judice rule.

The aim is to protect the rights of accused persons and to ensure that investigations and court hearings are not compromised.

This begins when an individual is detained. Until formal charges are laid, an accused's identity is not disclosed.

Once charged, an accused must appear in court at the earliest opportunity. Details such the accused's identity and the charge then become public information.

Guaranteeing rights to due process, courts ensure that hearings commence within "reasonable time," depending on the offence. Continued detention is evaluated in the context of ensuring that successful prosecution is not thereby compromised.

Media must confine themselves to objective reporting of facts, strictly refraining from speculation or judgments. This is particularly important given Cayman's size, which makes it impractical to relocate hearings.

Violation of the sub judice rule could result in case dismissal and/or contempt proceedings against an offender.