The Ministry of Justice office in Gwacheon, south of Seoul (Yonhap)
SEOUL, Aug. 14 (Korea Bizwire) — Paper documents will disappear from the judicial procedures in criminal cases, with the entire judicial processes ranging from investigation to trial and execution set to become fully paperless.
The Ministry of Justice issued an advance legislation notice on Thursday after filing a legislation draft to go paperless.
The legislation draft was devised to overcome the problems that arise by the limits imposed by paper-based records, as well as to improve the efficiency and transparency of judicial criminal procedures.
Upon the effectuation of the legislation, the recording, submission and distribution of paper documents throughout the judicial procedures of criminal cases will be replaced by paperless alternatives.
The legislation will also clear the way for the people related to criminal cases to submit evidence records without having to attend proceedings in person.
Documents like investigation reports drawn up by the police will be distributed in electronic format after being electronically signed.
It will become possible to read and print records related with criminal cases in electronic format.
Unlike in the past when each page of evidence records had to be copied manually, the legislation will make it possible to print such records in a more convenient manner using a computer.
The legislation will also open the way for the realization of fully electronic courts.
The installation of digital displays in courtrooms will make it easier to view electronic evidence records during the trial, while promoting the use of such systems in oral pleadings.
“The expansion in the use of e-paper throughout the judicial procedures of criminal cases will contribute to strengthening the right to defend for the accused, as well as improving overall operational efficiency,” the ministry said.
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
