What is Beijing Internet Court ?

The Beijing Internet Court, established in September 2018, is a specialized court in China that focuses on handling internet-related legal cases. It aims to provide efficient resolution of disputes arising from online activities, including e-commerce, intellectual property, and cybersecurity issues.

Key features of the Beijing Internet Court include:

• Online Proceedings: The court uses digital platforms for case filing, evidence submission, and hearings, making the process more accessible and efficient.
• Specialized Judges: Judges in this court are selected for their expertise in internet law and technology.
• Focus on Speed and Efficiency: The court seeks to resolve cases quickly, often within a few months, to keep pace with the fast-evolving digital landscape.

Overall, the Beijing Internet Court represents China’s efforts to modernize its legal system in response to the growing importance of the internet in daily life and commerce.

Intellectual property (IP) cases at the BIC primarily involve disputes related to copyrights, trademarks, and patents, particularly in the context of online activities. Here are some key aspects of how these cases are handled:

Types of Cases

1. Online Purchase Contracts that signed online through e-platform;
2. Online services contracts signed, performed online;
3. Loan agreement online contracts;
4. Copyright dispute published online.

Procedure

1. Filing:
   • Plaintiffs can file IP cases online, providing necessary documentation, including evidence of ownership and infringement.
2. Evidence Collection:
   • Parties may submit digital evidence, such as screenshots, sales data, and registration certificates.
3. Online Hearings:
   • Trials are conducted through video conferencing, allowing for real-time interaction and presentation of evidence.
4. Expert Testimony:
   • The court may allow expert witnesses to provide testimony on technical aspects of the case, particularly in patent disputes.
5. Judgments:
   • The court aims to deliver judgments quickly, often within a few months, to minimize disruption to businesses.

Features

• Specialized Judges: Judges with expertise in IP law and technology oversee these cases.
• Focus on Digital Evidence: The court is equipped to handle the unique challenges of digital evidence and online platforms.
• Emphasis on Efficiency: The goal is to resolve disputes swiftly to support the rapidly evolving digital economy.

Impact

The Beijing Internet Court has become a significant venue for resolving IP disputes in China, reflecting the country’s commitment to protecting intellectual property rights in the digital realm.