Civil Procedure Code at Laos
In the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Laos), civil procedure is governed by the Law on Civil Procedure, promulgated by the President on June 14, 2004, following its adoption by the National Assembly on May 17, 2004. This law, effective from the date of its promulgation, replaced the previous Law on Civil Procedure No. 09/90/SPA dated November 29, 1990 . (LA: Civil Procedure, Law, 2004)
📘 Overview of the Law on Civil Procedure (2004)
1. Purpose and Scope
The Law on Civil Procedure defines the principles, regulations, and court procedures for resolving civil, commercial, family, and juvenile disputes. Its objectives include protecting the socio-economic regime, safeguarding property rights, enhancing legal compliance, and promoting citizens' contributions to national development . (LA: Civil Procedure, Law, 2004, WIPO Lex)
2. Court Structure and Judicial Independence
The judicial system comprises various levels of courts, including the People's Supreme Court, appellate courts, provincial and city courts, and district and municipal courts. Each court is composed of a tribunal with three judges, one serving as the presiding judge and the others as members. Judges are required to be independent and adhere strictly to the law in their deliberations . (LA: Civil Procedure, Law, 2004)
3. Language and Transparency
Court proceedings are conducted in the Lao language. Parties who do not understand Lao have the right to use their own language or another language through translation. Trials are generally open to the public, except in cases involving state secrets or sensitive family matters, which may be heard in closed sessions . (LA: Civil Procedure, Law, 2004)
4. Litigants' Rights and Obligations
Litigants have the right to file claims, present evidence, request mediation, cross-examine witnesses, access case documents, and appeal decisions. They are also entitled to legal representation and must adhere to the procedural rules established by the law . (LA: Civil Procedure, Law, 2004)
5. Judicial Procedures and Evidence
The law emphasizes comprehensive, complete, and objective proceedings. Judges are required to assess all evidence presented, including that which may not directly pertain to the case, to determine the true facts and apply the law correctly . (LA: Civil Procedure, Law, 2004)
6. Appeals and Enforcement
Decisions made by courts of first instance can be appealed within 20 days from the date of the decision or from the date the party is notified of a default judgment. Appeals must be submitted through the court of first instance to the appellate court. Final and binding decisions are enforceable and must be executed promptly by the relevant authorities . (LA: Civil Procedure, Law, 2004)
7. International Cooperation
The law provides mechanisms for international cooperation in civil proceedings. It allows for the recognition and enforcement of foreign court decisions, provided they do not contravene Lao sovereignty, laws, or public policy. In the absence of bilateral agreements, claims involving foreign parties may be submitted through diplomatic channels for consideration . (LA: Civil Procedure, Law, 2004)
📚 Accessing the Full Text
The complete English translation of the Law on Civil Procedure is available on the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) website: (LA: Civil Procedure, Law, 2004)
👉 Law on Civil Procedure – WIPO Lex
This document provides detailed insights into the legal framework governing civil procedures in Laos.
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