Forthcoming

Criminal jurisdiction to prescribe and the “place of conduct” in transnational remote hearings

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.35295/osls.iisl.2665

Keywords:

remote hearings, criminal jurisdiction, international judicial cooperation, speech crimes

Abstract

In this contribution, I examine the problem of criminal jurisdiction to prescribe in transnational remote hearings. To address this issue, I consider the possibility of redefining the notion of the perpetrator’s place of conduct, which constitutes a cornerstone of the prevailing territoriality principle. Applying theoretical and dogmatic methods, I first analyse and critically assess the current legal framework. Second, I determine which state’s jurisdiction to prescribe would be most appropriate for acts committed by a person being questioned during a transnational remote hearing, taking into account the specific and conventional nature of speech. Finally, I advocate for the introduction of the necessary changes, considering the evolving understanding of the notion of “presence”—not as the place where an individual is physically located, but as the place where, through remote forms of communication, they interact with others.

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Author Biography

Anna Demenko, Adam Mickiewicz University, Faculty of Law and Administration

Chair of Criminal Law

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Published

01-09-2026

How to Cite

Demenko, A. (2026) “Criminal jurisdiction to prescribe and the ‘place of conduct’ in transnational remote hearings”, Oñati Socio-Legal Series. doi: 10.35295/osls.iisl.2665.

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Section

Thematic Articles