As a result, a video conference mode was introduced into the criminal process.

The appropriate regime may be applied to consider matters falling within the powers of an investigating judge, a court of his or her own motion, or at the request of a party to criminal proceedings. Exception is the consideration of a petition for detention in the form of detention.

At the same time, the investigating judge, the court is not entitled to decide on holding a hearing to consider a request to extend the detention in videoconference mode, if the suspect (accused) outside the court building objects to it.

The videoconference hearing, including during the court proceedings, shhold be carried out in accordance with the rules laid down in Article 336, paragraphs 3 - 9, of the CPC.

We reminder  that lawmakers have recently envisaged in the courts the possibility of holding a videoconference meeting using the parties' own technical means in economic, civil and administrative processes.

Also, please note that a special EasyCon service, launched by the State Judicial Administration, is already operating and the courts are holding sessions in Zoom.