Issues of Expanding the Use of Information and Communication Technologies by Lawyers in Criminal Proceedings

Abstract

This article examines the issues surrounding the expansion of information and communication technologies (ICT) in the activities of lawyers within criminal proceedings in Uzbekistan. It highlights the importance of integrating modern technologies into legal practice to enhance the efficiency, transparency, and accessibility of justice. The study analyzes the legal framework governing the use of ICT by lawyers, including constitutional provisions, legislative acts, and presidential decrees. It also explores international best practices from countries such as Germany, the United States, and Scotland, where digital technologies have been successfully implemented in legal processes. The article identifies challenges faced by lawyers in Uzbekistan, such as limited access to case materials, insufficient use of ICT, and bureaucratic obstacles. It proposes reforms, including amendments to the Criminal Procedure Code to allow lawyers to use photography, video, and audio recording devices for evidence collection, as well as the development of a legal framework for electronic evidence. The article concludes that the expansion of ICT in legal practice is essential for strengthening the legal profession, ensuring the protection of citizens' rights, and creating a more efficient and transparent legal system.