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First there was the irresponsible lending that got us into the housing mess.

Then it was discovered that lenders were robo-signing foreclosure documents without individually evaluating mortgages. Now judges have been caught locking the public out of foreclosure hearings. Well not any more. The First Amendment Foundation got wind of the closed door hearings and asked the Florida Supreme Court to take action. Jim Rhea, Director of the foundation, says the judges were breaking the law.

“The public has a right of access in Florida and public proceedings are open. Everyone has the right to be there. It provides oversight so they’re sure the court is following the proper procedures,” said Rhea.

Today Chief Justice Charles Canady ordered all Florida judges to let the public in.