The effectiveness of mobile court sessions in Tuong Duong.

(Baonghean) - Among the popular channels for educating the public about the law, organizing mobile court sessions is considered the most practical and effective. Through these mobile court sessions, people can "hear and see" firsthand and clearly understand specific acts and cases of legal violations. In recent times, Tuong Duong district has been one of the districts that has done well in this area...

In mid-July 2015, the People's Court of Tuong Duong District held a mobile trial for the case of forest destruction against defendant Lo Van Duong (Huu Khuong commune). Previously, while clearing land, Duong had encroached on a protected forest area. Considering Duong's actions violated the law due to his limited awareness and understanding, resulting in unintentional forest destruction, the court held a mobile trial to raise awareness and promote forest protection.To promote legal education and awareness among the people, the People's Court of Tuong Duong District decided to hold a mobile trial right at the headquarters of Huu Khuong Commune People's Committee. From early morning, the hall of the Commune People's Committee was packed with people. During the debate, the panel of judges incorporated legal regulations on forest protection to disseminate information to the people. After the trial, the people understood that burning forests for slash-and-burn agriculture is a violation of the law. Mr. Vi Van Hoe, a resident of Huu Khuong Commune, said: “I think holding a mobile trial is very good. This is an opportunity for people to understand illegal acts so they can avoid them. The court's trial is reasonable and fair, demonstrating the strictness of the law while also deterring and warning people, especially young people, from falling into vices such as drug addiction, theft, and burning forests for slash-and-burn agriculture to avoid going to prison...”

Tuong Duong police are taking statements from drug traffickers.

This is just one of dozens of cases that the People's Court of Tuong Duong District has held mobile court sessions in recent times. In 2014 alone, the unit organized 22 mobile court sessions, and by the end of August 2015, it had held 20. Depending on the local situation, the District People's Court has selected and held mobile court sessions for typical cases, focusing on types of crimes that are on the rise and causing public concern. These mainly include cases of drug trafficking, deforestation, intentional injury, and human trafficking. In June, in response to the month of action against drug abuse, the unit held 12 mobile court sessions. “The court sessions are held in hotspots or where the defendants reside. The unit coordinates with relevant departments and local authorities to invite all residents to the community cultural centers in the communes and villages to attend the trials. Almost every trial session is packed with people; a large number of people come to attend,” shared Mr. Tran Van Lam, Judge and Deputy Chief Justice of the People's Court of Tuong Duong District.

Compared to lowland districts, the awareness and understanding of the law among ethnic minorities in Tuong Duong district are still very limited, resulting in a high incidence of legal violations. Many people, due to unintentional mistakes or lack of understanding, only realize their actions are illegal and subject to severe penalties after being arrested. In reality, most court sessions held at courthouses are sparsely attended; besides those summoned by the court, only a few family members of the defendant are present, and in some cases, the defendant is alone. In contrast, most mobile court sessions attract large crowds of people. Therefore, no one can deny the effectiveness of disseminating and educating the public about the law through mobile court sessions. Through these sessions, people gain a better understanding of the tactics used by criminals and the strict legal regulations regarding various types of crimes. This will enhance understanding of the law and raise awareness, vigilance, and the fight against and prevention of crime.

Mr. Moong Van Hai, Chief Judge of the People's Court of Tuong Duong District, said: To organize mobile court sessions effectively to disseminate, publicize, and raise public awareness of law compliance, a plan must be developed from the selection of cases, locations for the court sessions, selection of presiding judges, people's assessors, court clerks, etc., and the arrangement of security forces before, during, and after the mobile court session. At each mobile court session, the panel of judges must base their decisions on the nature and content of each case to incorporate relevant legal documents for dissemination and promotion. In addition, the role of people's assessors in mobile court sessions and legal dissemination must be promoted. This is because people's assessors are representatives of the people who directly participate in the exercise of state power; These are individuals who live, work, or are employed in agencies, organizations, production facilities, and residential areas. They possess experience in social activities, a wealth of practical knowledge, and close relationships with the people. In legal proceedings, lay judges bring the voice of society into the trial process, helping to ensure accurate, objective judgments that align with the rights and aspirations of the people, thus enhancing their public awareness and influence.

However, given the specific characteristics of Tuong Duong district, organizing mobile court sessions is not simple. Currently, reaching communes such as Mai Son, Huu Khuong, and Tam Hop requires a half-day boat trip. Furthermore, funding for organizing mobile court sessions is limited. Mr. Tran Van Lam, Deputy Chief Judge of the District People's Court, stated that when organizing mobile court sessions in remote areas, the court has to rent vehicles for several days, not to mention living expenses and preparation costs. These difficulties have somewhat affected the organization of mobile court sessions. Therefore, it is essential to have the attention, support, and facilitation of local Party committees and authorities for the People's Courts at all levels in organizing mobile court sessions to improve the quality and effectiveness of legal education and dissemination, making a significant contribution to crime prevention and law enforcement in the area.

Pham Bang