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Main hearing in a civil case
Main hearing in a civil case
In a simple case, the main hearing can be held immediately following the preparatory hearing. However, in complex cases including witnesses the main hearing is scheduled for separately. In most cases the judge in charge of the preparation chairs the main hearing and decides the matter on his or her own.
At first, the chairman summarises the results of the preparation of the case and the demands of the parties. Thereafter the plaintiff and defendant present more detailed grounds for their demands. They may also question each other. Then, the written evidence is listed and any witnesses heard. The main hearing ends with the parties’ closing statements, wherein they express an opinion as to how the case should be decided.
The parties should prepare carefully for the main hearing. It is important that all relevant points are fresh in mind. Evidence not disclosed in the preparation can no longer be submitted in the main hearing, unless there has been a valid reason for the failure to disclose it on time. The main hearing can only in exceptional cases be adjourned. You should arrive on time to the hearings of the district court.
Videoconferencing in court proceedings
Updated on 31 January 2012
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