ELECTRONIC EVIDENCE IN THE ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE IN UKRAINE IN THE LIGHT OF THE INFORMATIONAL APPROACH

Abstract

The purpose of the scientific paper is to develop solutions for the improvement of the electronic evidence sub-institute in the administrative procedure in Ukraine based on the informational approach. The methodological framework for the research is represented by theoretical advances in the field of procedural law, with an emphasis on the theory of evidence and proof, as well as computer forensics, information law and technical literature. Comparative and formal legal methods, structural-functional analysis, inductive and deductive reasoning have been used to conduct the research. As a result of the research the analysis of the current theoretical developments in the study of the interdisciplinary sub-institute of the electronic evidence has been conducted; scientific comparison between the “objective” (traditional to the domestic theory of proof) and “informational” approaches to the definition of electronic evidence has been carried out; main theoretical and practical issues, arising from the application of different approaches to the perception of electronic evidence have been discovered and propositions for legislative amendments were made. Key findings of the study are briefly summarized below. In determination of the concept and the essence of electronic evidence an optimal combination of both objective and informational approaches to the perception of the electronic evidence should be applied. Differentiation between the original and the copy of electronic evidence should not be abandoned, and it should be allowed for the court to substantiate its findings with the copies of the electronic evidence in specific cases. Particular amendments to the Code of Administrative Procedure of Ukraine should be made with respect to: the definition of the original and the copy of electronic evidence; legal regulation of particular issues concerned with the use of originals and copies of the electronic evidence when proving the factual circumstances of the case (as well as when rendering the final and interim decisions by the court and when using the special knowledge) – primarily, in compliance with technical standards, that have recently been approved in Ukraine, regulating certain issues on the processing of electronic digital evidence.