What does standing silent mean in court?

"Standing silent" in court refers to a defendant's decision not to speak or offer a plea in response to the charges brought against them. It is often considered a form of maintaining one's right to remain silent and not self-incriminate. When a defendant stands silent, it generally indicates that they are not entering a plea of guilty or not guilty. Instead, they may be exercising their right to have the prosecution prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt.

In some jurisdictions, standing silent might be interpreted as a plea of not guilty by default. However, it's essential to consult legal professionals or refer to the specific laws and practices of the jurisdiction in question, as court procedures can vary.