in the dock

1. On trial, especially in a criminal case. For example, The accused stood in the dock through the entire proceeding. This expression employs dock in the sense of “an enclosed place for the defendant in a court of law,” a usage dating from the late 1500s, and is used even in American courts where no such enclosure exists.

Example Sentences

He appeared in the dock and spoke to confirm his identity.

From BBC

Dale looked straight ahead in the dock and showed no emotion as he was sentenced by judge Carl Harris.

From BBC

He stood with his arms behind his back in the dock.

From BBC

Members of the public sobbed loudly and hid their faces as footage of the attack on Kelyan was shown in court, while the defendants gave no visible reaction in the dock.

From BBC

He silently shook his head in the dock as the jury gave its unanimous verdict after four hours and four minutes of deliberations.

From BBC