This regulation is a key aspect of Circular 12/2026, issued by the Supreme People's Court, which outlines courtroom and hearing procedures, as well as rules for audio and video recording of proceedings. The circular takes effect on 1/8.
Clause 3, Article 4 of the circular stipulates that participants and attendees are prohibited from bringing devices with data collection, storage, processing, or transmission capabilities into the courtroom. These include mobile phones, tablets, laptops, smartwatches, and other electronic recording or signal transmission devices, unless explicitly authorized by the presiding judge.
Litigants who use electronic devices to access case files, documents, or evidence, facilitate online proceedings, or record audio and video of the trial must do so under the direct supervision of the presiding judge.
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Court security is heightened, requiring attendees to undergo inspections during a trial at the People's Court of Kien Giang province. Photo: Tran Thanh |
The circular further specifies that audio recording is permitted solely during the duration of the trial or hearing. Video recording is restricted to the opening of proceedings and the announcement of verdicts or decisions. Any audio recording of the trial panel or judges, or video recording of the trial panel during the opening or verdict announcement, requires the express consent of the presiding judge.
Recording other procedural officers or litigants, whether audio or video, necessitates the consent of both the individual being recorded and the presiding judge.
Livestreaming court proceedings prohibited
The circular explicitly prohibits participants and attendees from livestreaming trial proceedings. Furthermore, it forbids the dissemination of false information that could compromise the independence and objectivity of judicial activities or infringe upon the legal rights and interests of those involved in the proceedings.
Concerning courtroom attendance rules, participants must present their summons or identification to the court clerk at least 15 minutes before the scheduled opening. Late arrivals must complete procedures via security personnel. Individuals under 16 years old are not permitted in the courtroom, unless they have been officially summoned.
Additionally, participants must remain present throughout the entire proceedings and may only leave the courtroom with the presiding judge's consent.
Article 4 of the circular mandates that participants must be present for the entire trial, dress appropriately, maintain order, comply with the directions of the trial panel, and refrain from any actions that could undermine the court's solemnity. Violators may face removal from the courtroom, administrative fines, or legal accountability as prescribed by law.
Hai Duyen
