Commentary on Judgment No. 20957 of 2023: 'In-Person' Hearings After the Pandemic

The judgment no. 20957 of May 3, 2023, by the Court of Cassation offers an important reflection on the emergency procedural rules adopted to address the COVID-19 pandemic. The Court ruled on the holding of appeal hearings in a context where proceedings had to be adapted to safeguard public health. This article aims to analyze the content of the judgment, highlighting the salient aspects and legal implications.

The Regulatory Context

The Court's decision fits into a complex regulatory framework characterized by numerous legislative measures aimed at managing the health emergency. In particular, the Decree-Law of December 30, 2021, No. 228 established that for hearings scheduled between January 1, 2022, and January 31, 2022, the ordinary procedural regime for "in-person" hearings must apply, in derogation of some previous provisions.

This approach had a significant impact on how trials were managed, expanding the possibilities for holding hearings during a period when health restrictions were particularly severe.

The Summary of the Judgment

19, for appeal proceedings with the first hearing set between 01/01/2022 and 31/01/2022, the ordinary procedural regime for "in-person" hearings, provided for by Article 16, paragraph 2, of Decree-Law of December 30, 2021, No. 228, in derogation of Articles 23, paragraphs 8 and 8-bis, and 23-bis, paragraphs 1, 2, 3, 4, and 7, of Decree-Law of October 28, 2020, No. 137, as converted by Law of December 18, 2020, No. 176, also applies to continuing hearings. (In applying this principle, the Court deemed the decision taken as a result of a hearing postponed to a date after 31/01/2022, held "in-person" despite the absence of a request for oral hearings, to be free from criticism).

This summary highlights the importance of in-person hearings, even for hearings scheduled after the established time window. The Court held that, despite the absence of a formal request for an oral hearing, the in-person celebration was legitimate, representing a crucial aspect for ensuring the right to defense and the proper conduct of the trial.

Practical Implications of the Judgment

The practical consequences of this decision are manifold and deserve careful consideration:

  • Recognition of the right to in-person hearings, essential for the effectiveness of the trial.
  • Possibility of applying the ordinary procedural regime even in emergency situations.
  • Clarity on the operational modalities for continuing hearings, reducing the risk of future disputes.

This judgment represents an important step towards the stabilization of legal procedures post-pandemic, providing a clearer framework for lawyers, judges, and parties involved.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the judgment no. 20957 of 2023 by the Court of Cassation proves to be fundamental for understanding how the Italian legal system is adapting to the challenges posed by the pandemic. The rediscovery of the importance of "in-person" hearings not only affirms the rights of the parties involved but also helps to ensure a fair and effective trial. It is essential that all legal professionals take these principles into account to navigate the current legal landscape more effectively.

Bianucci Law Firm