Fair Hearing

He who answers a matter before he hears it, It is folly and shame to him.
Proverbs 18:13, NKJV

In criminal law, the concept of a fair hearing means a person who has been arrested must be notified of the charge brought against them and must also be given the opportunity to defend themselves. Perhaps you have seen an officer read a suspect their Miranda Rights on television or in a movie. These directions help suspects present the best case possible.

Good judges believe in hearing both sides of every story. Adrian Rogers said, “It is a pretty thin pancake that only has one side.” It is both foolish and shameful any time we render a verdict or draw a conclusion before hearing all of the pertinent information. Never give an answer before asking all your questions. Injustice zooms like a rocket. Fairness floats like a hot air balloon.