Since the introduction of the state of emergency on 12 March 2020, most oral hearings in Latvian courts have been postponed and will be dealt with after the emergency restrictions are lifted as a matter of priority. According to the regulations of the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, only cases dealing with significant infringement of rights and objectively urgent issues (e.g. detention, restriction of legal capacity) are heard in oral hearings. Cases considered in written proceedings are not postponed.  

Videoconferencing is used increasingly in oral hearings with detainees not transferred to the courthouses anymore. Expert witnesses and representatives from other courts can also participate remotely, however prosecutors, lawyers and victims are still required to attend the courtroom in person in order to verify their identity. 

We publish information as it is reported to us. If you would like to make us aware of an inaccuracy or send us more information please email us at [email protected]