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Vol 73, No 2 (2020)
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PHILOSOPHY OF LAW / PHILOSOPHIA LEX

9-24 546
Abstract

The paper is devoted to one of the fundamental problems of social science, namely: the problem of order. When a social order is taken for granted, it merges its meanings with the meanings rooted in cosmos.

Nomos and cosmos begin to coexist. The order is endowed with a stabilizing force drawn from a more powerful source, i.e. cosmization implies the identification of this meaningful world with the world as such.

The power and the law in their actions are aimed at creating and maintaining order as a system. The system itself develops the structure of technology formation aimed at both maintaining the existing order and changing it. Technology, as an anonymous power, dominates the society, but the society itself makes itself dependent on technology by deciding to apply technology. Thus, a special space of technological power emerges where actual influences determining its structure are expressed. The power and law acquire qualitatively new features in this context.

The technology of power can be understood as a kind of “democracy.” It can be normalized in accordance with its constitutional prerequisites and it can restore its long-lost moral justification.

PRIVATE LAW / JUS PRIVATUM

25-32 832
Abstract

The existence of extraordinary circumstances, which should be understood as circumstances unavoidable under these conditions, constitutes the condition for requisition. The Civil Code of the Russian Federation gives state bodies a certain freedom in carrying out requisitions, as it is hardly possible to list all exceptional circumstances when additional equipment or other property will be required both to prevent the development of emergencies and to deal with their consequences.

Civil law confiscation involves the termination of private property and the emergence of state ownership of confiscated property. Therefore, it is impossible to treat as confiscation the seizure of tengible media according to Para. 4 of Art. 1252 of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation, because they were produced in violation of the law and, therefore, ownership has not arisen. The paper also substantiates the conclusion that nationalization requires relevant property to come not into the property of the State, but into the national property. In the author’s opinion, the currently existing State property does not contain any hints of national property, and it can be stated that the Russian people even more than previously are removed from the property of the State and are excluded from State responsibility. Nationwide property serves as a foundation of the civil society.

33-43 3959
Abstract

In recent years, the application of legislation in the field of personal data has become the focus of attention of legal scholars. With the development of digital technologies, the problem of protection of personal data becomes especially urgent. The importance of personal data is so great that some scholars treat them as intangible goods. In order to protect the interests of citizens, our State takes measures to localize citizens’ personal data by statutory regulation of the Russian segment of the Internet. Such remedies as the right to be forgotten and personal data anonymization are also applied.

However, the practice, including judicial practice, shows that the available means of protection of personal data are insufficient in the context of new technologies. However, the practice of application of laws on personal data reveals a number of problems that need to be addressed. The attribution of specific information about natural persons to personal data leads to a number of questions with regard to the practice of the activities of state bodies. Under currently effective Article 3 of the Federal Law, the term personal data refers to any information relating directly or indirectly to a certain or definable natural person (subject of personal data). At the same time, the law does not specify which data about an individual refers to personal data. Due to this broad understanding of personal data, questions arise concerning the attribution of paticular information about an individual to personal data. In this regard, the definition of criteria for the attribution of specific information about a person to personal data becomes an important theoretical task.

The issues of primary concern include: 1) strengthening of responsibility for violation of personal data legislation; 2) giving priority to the issue of neutrality of the Internet, 3) solving the problem of the balance between direct access to publicly available data and the need to protect personal data. In the author’s opinion, it is necessary to ensure by means of comprehensive measures the priority of protection of personal data of citizens. This problem is of particular importance in connection with the elaboration of new laws on the digital profile of citizens.

CRIMINAL LAW SCIENCES / JUS CRIMINALE

44-62 810
Abstract

An adversarial nature of any judicial proceedings, which is characteristic of justice and corresponds to its nature, is revealed in criminal proceedings not only in criminal cases, but also in so called cases of judicial review exercised during pre-trial proceedings. In the present paper the features of adversarial construction of judicial review proceedings in the Russian criminal process are investigated in the context of the purpose and subject of judicial review at pre-trial stages. The author has analyzed the specifics of the conflict relationship, the essence of the legal dispute and the subject composition of the procedural parties in cases of judicial review, as well as the peculiarities of initiating the judicial review proceedings and distribution of the burden of proof between the parties; reveals the transformation of the procedural roles of the main participants of the adversarial proceedings when the disputed issue is transfered from the main proceedings in the criminal case for consideration in the procedure of judicial review within the framework of separate proceedings. The paper also elucidates such features characteristic for certain forms of judicial review as involvement of third parties having their own interest in the judicial review case and restriction of participation in the court session of the interested party. The paper focuses on the problem of ambiguous (from the standpoint of the principle of adversariality) procedural status of the prosecutor in judicial and review proceedings in which independent parties are the investigator and (or) the head of the investigative body. Alternative options for elimination of the problem discussed above are proposed. It is concluded that in the course of normative regulation of judicial review procedures and law enforcement, it is necessary to take into account the specifics of cases of judicial review and the originality of manifestation of adversarial foundation in such cases.

63-74 4868
Abstract

The paper discusses the issue of a special legal approach to interpretation of norms of criminal procedure law. On the example of criminal procedural law the author substantiates the independent character of the special legal method of interpretation, its difference from the grammatical and systematic (systemic) methods of interpretation of law, as well as the place of this method among other means of interpretation. The subject of special legal interpretation include: special legal terms, concepts, categories, legal structures, types (regularities) of legal regulation, rules of legal technique, theoretical provisions. The vast majority of such interpretations were carried out by the Plenum of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation and the Constitutional Court of the Russian Federation, which is predetermined by the need for a common understanding of criminal procedural terminology. Unlike grammatical interpretation, which provides a linguistic analysis of the text of the law, systematic interpretation in which interpretation takes into account the place of the norm in the systemic relationship with other norms, in special legal interpretation the main source of information is legal knowledge, i.e. the knowledge of law and legal theory. If a special legal interpretation is carried out by an official body, it is usually normative. Also, based on the legal stances of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation and the Constitutional Court of the Russian Federation, the author gives examples of “evolution” of legal standings from special legal interpretation to adoption and amendment of legal norms. The article investigates the judicial practice containing the results of special legal interpretation of criminal procedural rules, e.g. legal concepts and terms defined by the same words, but having different meaning depending on the branch of law in which they are used. The author also gives examples of determination of the branch of law to which the norm belongs by means of special legal interpretation.

75-91 813
Abstract

Problems of understanding of criminal law protection of competition repersent a very topical subject for research. There is no uniform opinion in the criminal law doctrine on this point. However, the emergence of a common concept of competition protection could contribute, inter alia, to a more effective response to cartels, which pose a threat to the economic security of the country, other illegal forms of restricting competition. All available ideas of researchers concerning the need for independent criminal law protection of competition can be divided into two categories: 1) some authors differentiate a separate group of crimes agains competition; 2) others include them in a general or specific group of business crimes. The article substantiates the author’s opinion concerning the issues of recognition of competition as an independent object of criminal law protection and the problems arising due to it. The author has tried to find answers to existing in criminal law issues of protection of competition in other areas of knowledge and came to the conclusion that they can be justified by an economic approach to the analysis of concepts of “competition” and related to it both economic and legal processes and phenomena. By studying scientific economic views, the views that have been developed in the science of criminal law can be both confirmed and refuted. In addition, a cross-sectoral legal approach can help to address individual issues. Thus, the science of constitutional, criminal, civil and competition law, as well as law enforcement in these areas have developed and strengthened a number of ideas with regard to the regulation of economic (business) relations and their protection. One of them is based on the good faith of economic actors. An integral part of of activities of such actors is competition. The author concludes that the necessity of criminal law protection of competition is predetermined by the Constitution of the Russian Federation and other normative legal acts, and suggests that we understand fair competitive relations as an object of criminal law protection.

92-105 1360
Abstract

Elements of some crimes suggest that the subject has special features specified in the disposition of the relevant article of the Special Part of the Criminal Law. The analysis of these features allows to attribute them to the status and role characteristics of the personality, which causes the possibility of using the sociological theory of social statuses and roles in order to carry out a criminological study of the mechanism of intentional criminal behavior and the place characteristics under consideration take. Taking into account the existing idea concerning the elements of the mechanism of criminal behavior, the author substantiates the influence of social status and role of the individual on its moral formation, emergence and development of criminal motivation, significance for the particular life situation and the process of committing the crime. At the same time, the author refrains from concluding that there is a causal link between the status and role of a person and the commission of a crime, and, relying on the results of sociological research, comes to the conclusion that the social status and role determine, on the one hand, the content and nature of interactions between the individual and the society, and, on the other hand, make an impact on personal characteristics of the individual, his needs and the system of values adjusting them to each other. In other words, with regard to the mechanism of intentional criminal conduct, the social status and role are of dual importance, as they amount to both internal conditions and external factors. Thus, as internal conditions, they cause the emergence of the personality of such features, which are implemented as the features of social perception, motivation and goal-setting. Acting as external factors, the social status and role characterize the specific life situation in which the crime is committed and which, as the offender is aware of them, also affect the motivation and goal-setting processes.

THEORY OF LAW / THEORIA LEX

106-124 1035
Abstract

The importance of legal forecasting lies in the study of legal phenomena and processes that occur under the influence of economic, political, demographic, ideological, and international factors of change, and in the development of proposals for the optimal development of legislation for their subsequent inclusion in legislative work plans. The main methodological problem of legal forecasting is to reveal the essence of the category "legal system and the future", the dynamics of which determines the quality of predictive research at all levels: strategies for the development of Russian legislation; legal institutions; legal education and law making; legal behavior of the individual (sociological aspect of forecasting). Representing a system of certain theoretical principles, forms and methods, as well as epistemological regularities for obtaining probabilistic judgments about the future state of legal and state phenomena and processes, the methodology of legal forecasting is aimed at improving the effectiveness of normative acts in all branches of law. It determines the most rational ways of developing the legal system as a whole. The paper analyzes the state of legal regulation in the field of maternal, child and family protection, social security, labor relations and some other areas of social reality. Using legal methods of forecasting, the author sketches the socio-legal institutional and industry models based on political-legal, socio-economic and spiritual factors, which are important landmarks to improve social relations, legal institutions and standards. The author proposes specific measures for the modernization of the legislative institutions in the socio-legal environment corresponding to the socio-cultural processes taking place in society and expected changes in the socio-cultural conditions in the future based on experienced or anticipated social needs. Conclusion: the current stage and social dynamics of social development require urgent legislative measures to ensure a decent human existence and implement the provision of article 2 of the Constitution of the Russian Federation on his rights and freedoms as the highest value.

125-132 730
Abstract

The paper considers the importance of the anti-terrorist function of the state, which consists in the possibility of neutralizing the main threat-forming factors of illegal encroachments on the constitutional system: 1) radicalism; 2) enmity and hatred; 3) extremism; 4) terrorism. The purpose of the paper is to search for effective support of all areas of the state’s antiterrorist function: 1) prevention; 2) struggle; 3) elimination of harmful consequences; 4) self-sufficiency. The analysis of the category "anti-terrorist function of the state" is carried out in the combination of dialectical and systemic research methods, as well as by a conceptual approach to identifying new forms of implementation. In the course of the analysis, the author formulates and scientifically substantiates his position: the support of the anti-terrorist function of the state determines the social purpose and social significance of the prevention of terrorism as the primary direction of anti-terrorist activities. The paper reflects the currently important feature of the considered function — the socio-political component of countering terrorism as a point of contact between the opposing entities. The transformation of manifestations of terrorism, which creates threats to individual, public, state, collective, regional, and international security, requires anti-terrorist actors to act ahead of the curve. A citizen protected from terrorist influence will expect the state to maintain such a safe state. At the same time, the average citizen is far from being able to participate in strengthening the anti-terrorist function of the state. A separate set of state measures is of interest in the course of systematizing the functions of the modern Russian state. Modern terrorists, using the achievements of humanity, are embedded in an invulnerable actor of the planetary level. Attempts to reduce these manifestations to an acceptable level only by anti-criminal methods of law enforcement agencies are comparable to the failure and beginning of the reproduction of terrorism. Without a comprehensive approach in the anti-terrorist sphere, it is impossible to create sustainable development and conditions for the implementation of national interests. This system is formed, implemented, optimized, improved and harmonized under the influence of many socio-political factors. The stability of the system under study is conditional due to the variability of various external and internal sources of government that affect its processes.

CYBERSPACE / CYBERSPACE

133-140 705
Abstract

The author explores the legal aspects of network space risks, when legal imperatives are laid for the transportation and stay of a consignment of dangerous goods on board a ship. It is concluded that it is difficult to choose the law to be applied. In this regard, the material norms that make up the operational risk space can serve as a guide. Their selection is often a precursor to earning assets net operating profit. At the same time, the variety of legal facts with which the acquirer on arrival of property associates his right to file an ownership claim is formulated either in the contract of connection or accession. Therefore, separate prerequisites for the emergence of business and legal risks at the stage of abandoning consumer insurance in favor of its property qualification are highlighted. The paper shows types of encumbrances that accompany the problems of optimizing the costs of insurance against cyber risks. Even if insurance companies find their offer profitable for customers, the basis of the risk of financial loss is still the recovery of lost data. The insurer is forced to dispose of advanced analytical developments, such as, for example, blockchain or smart contracts that are very common today. Policyholders, in turn, use digital distribution and other virtual service models to not only reduce costs to a minimum, but also gain competitive advantages. The author analyzes the norms of the Convention acts on the transboundary shipping of dangerous goods. The International standards of TV and radio communications ISO/IEC 11801 and ISO/IEC 27001 (ISMS — 2018) are studied, and the conclusion is made that the threat to technological resources is identified with a comprehensive legal strategy for owner protection.

COMPARATIVE STUDIES / COMPARATIVE STUDIES

141-152 683
Abstract

The paper examines the powers of the judiciary to ensure the rule of law in the sphere of public administration and local self-government, which, according to the authors, consist in the implementation of the judicial control function by the courts. Granting the judicial power with the function of judicial control and expanding the scope of its implementation is one of the mechanisms that, in conditions of ensuring the rule of law, are necessary in order for everyone to exercise their constitutional freedom to appeal to the court against illegal acts, decisions, actions or omissions of public authorities, their officials, and civil servants. It is obvious that the role of the judiciary is significantly enhanced in the implementation of the second institutional reform to ensure the rule of law. Today, the rule of law in the sphere of state and local government is ensured the implementation of judicial control by courts of general, specialized and higher jurisdiction, as well as specialized formulations courts of the Republic of Kazakhstan in accordance with the RK legislation on civil and criminal procedure and administrative offences. However, according to the study, administrative and judicial reforms carried out in parallel in the Republic of Kazakhstan have resulted, on the one hand, in strengthening judicial control in the sphere of state administration and local self-government, and, on the other hand, in restricting the constitutional right to judicial protection and freedom of appeal in court. According to the authors, the steps to optimize the courts, consisting in the transition from a five-level court to a three-level court, have not achieved their main goal-to simplify access to justice.

153-164 1667
Abstract

The institution of complicity in crime as a whole is one of the most problematic areas for criminal law doctrine and law enforcement practice. The problem of complicity in crime, which acts as one of the fundamental institutions of criminal law in different countries, is given increased attention in the legal science of China and Russia, which is primarily due to the importance of this institution.

In the Chinese criminal law, only five articles of the General part (articles 25-29 of the criminal code of the People’s Republic of China) are devoted to complicity in a crime. In addition, in many articles of the special part of the criminal code of the People’s Republic of China, incitement, aiding and abetting, as well as preparing, creating, directing, or participating in a criminal group, constitute a complete crime. These are such elements of a crime as: incitement to split the state (part 2 of article 103), incitement to overthrow the state power (part 2 of article 105), incitement to carry out terrorist activities (article 120), financial assistance to terrorist activities (article 120.1), assistance to information network criminal activities (article 287.2), preparatory actions for terrorist activities (article 120.2), organization, leadership, participation in a terrorist organization (article 120), organization, leadership and active participation in organizations of a mafia nature (article 294) , etc. In the current Criminal Code of the Russian Federation, seven articles of the General part (articles 32-36, articles 63, 67 of the Criminal Code) are devoted to the institution of complicity. In addition, the group committing a crime is as qualified or very qualified type of specific crimes (for example, article 105, 117, 158, 164 of the Criminal Code), or forms a constitutive characteristic of certain types of crime (for example, article 208, 209, 210 of the Criminal Code, which criminalize the creation of formations, gangs or communities or participate in them).

The paper deals with Chinese and Russian criminal law in part of the normative regulation of the Institute of complicity in a crime, considerable attention is given to the analysis of criminal legislation of China and Russia in the sphere of legal regulation of concepts, forms of participation, types of participation and the principles of bringing them to criminal liability. In the course of the study, the author also attempts to analyze some controversial issues related to the institution of complicity in crime, such as complicity in careless crime, indirect execution, and the legal nature of complicity in crime.

IIMPROVEMENT OF LEGISLATION / NOVUS LEX

165-173 1303
Abstract

As a result of comprehensive analysis of the content of socially dangerous consequences provided for in article 246, 247, 250-252, 254 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation, the authors reveal the absence of a unified approach to the interpretation of individual effects, consistency in the interpretation of certain terms. It is concluded that the two-stage system of socially dangerous consequences formed in the majority of these crimes significantly complicates law enforcement activities. It is revealed that one of the most successfully used components of these environmental crimes is part 1 of article 247 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation, formulated as a part of a real danger. An accurate description of the legal structures used in the construction of these elements of a crime will allow you to define de lege lata qualification limits, distinguish them from each other and distinguish them from related elements of administrative offenses. The authors clear up the content of such socially dangerous consequences as: essential change of radioactive background, the infliction of harm to human health, mass death of animals, damage to human health, significant harm to human health or the environment, pollution, poisoning or contamination of the environment, human death, mass diseases of people, the spread of epidemics or epizootics, causing essential harm to animal or flora, fish stocks, forestry or agriculture, pollution or other change of natural properties of air, other serious consequences. De lege ferenda’s proposals include a unified system of socially dangerous consequences that could be used universally in the crimes under consideration. The following socially dangerous consequences are proposed. The first part: creating a real threat of causing significant harm to human health, the environment, animal or plant life, fish stocks, forestry or agriculture. The second part: causing harm to human health, significant harm to human health, the environment, animal or plant life, fish stocks, forestry or agriculture. The third part: causing the death of a person by negligence. The forth part: causing death by negligence to two or more persons.



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ISSN 1729-5920 (Print)
ISSN 2686-7869 (Online)