Courtroom Communication: Identification of the Communication Characteristics of Criminal Trials in Indonesian Courts

Aan Widodo^*

• Universitas Bhayangkara Jakarta Raya, Jakarta, Indonesia

The courtroom in Indonesia operates not only as a legal setting but also as a socio-communicative arena where judges, prosecutors, defense lawyers, witnesses, and defendants interact under strict procedures and cultural norms. Communication in this space shapes justice, transparency, and public trust. This study analyzes courtroom communication in Indonesian criminal trials by examining the flows and characteristics of interaction. Drawing on Goffman's concept of gatherings, Judicial Communication, and Forensic Communication, it conceptualizes the courtroom as a communicative practice where actors perform authority, contest facts, and negotiate fairness. The research employed a qualitative case study design and collected data through interviews with nine informants (judges, prosecutors, defense lawyers, a witness, and a defendant), observations of three trials at the Bekasi District Court, and analysis data was carried out using thematic analysis with stages of coding, categorization, interpretation, and conclusion. The findings show two dominant communication flows: one way communication, such as judicial instructions and verdict delivery, and multi directional communication, such as examinations and cross examinations. The study further identifies six communication characteristics: professional, hierarchical, confrontational, investigative, adversarial, and supportive. Empirical examples include judges' clarifying questions, prosecutorial challenges, and empathetic accommodations for vulnerable witnesses. Theoretically, the study advances socio-legal communication research by integrating authority, contestation, and fairness in courtroom interaction. Practically, it provides insights for legal practitioners to strengthen communication strategies that enhance effectiveness, fairness, and legitimacy in judicial processes.