China’s Supreme People’s Court (SPC) issued its new revision to its Rules of Court on April 14.
The first revision to this specific code since 1994, the new Rules of Court, which will take effect as of May 1, consist of 27 articles, including 15 new additions that analysts claim are designed to better protect human rights and increase objectivity in the judiciary.
Highlights of the new revision: 1. Any detained person or plaintiff does not need to wear a uniform which identifies the organ he or she has been detained by. Restraints are forbidden in the courtroom.
2. Each party should be treated equally. Any discrimination on the part of the court may be reported.
3. Anyone who threatens the safety of a courtroom will be punished according to relevant laws.
4. Anyone who destroys court property or evidence or disrupts trial proceedings will be punished according to relevant laws.
5. Journalists are permitted to bring mobile communication tools into the court if they obtain clearance first.
6. Judges and other relevant court personnel should wear business suits. Those attending court should be appropriately dressed.
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