7 Myths About Russian Courts

Foreign parties often avoid Russian courts because of assumptions that do not match how cases actually run. Some concerns have a basis, many are exaggerated, and a few are simply wrong. The reality depends on the type of dispute, the court and the preparation of the case.

Attorney Elena Petrova represents foreign clients in Russian courts and sees these myths shape their decisions before any facts are checked.

Myths 1 and 2: Foreigners Always Lose, and Everything Is Decided in Advance

Commercial courts decide most cases on documents. A foreign company with a signed contract, invoices and proof of delivery stands on the same footing as a Russian one. Published decisions on kad.arbitr.ru include many cases won by foreign claimants.

Cases with political or state interest are a separate category. For ordinary contract, debt and property disputes, the file decides the outcome.

Myths 3 and 4: Cases Take Years, and You Must Attend in Person

Procedural codes set deadlines for first instance, counted in months. Complex cases take longer, especially with expert examinations, but many commercial claims are resolved within a year at first instance.

A party can act entirely through a representative under a power of attorney. Online participation in hearings is also possible.

Myths 5 to 7: Judgments Are Unenforceable, English Documents Are Fine, No Rules Exist

Enforcement is handled by court bailiffs and banks, which execute writs against accounts directly. Success depends on the debtor's assets, not on the court.

All documents must be in Russian, with apostilles where required. And Russian courts rely on detailed codes and binding Supreme Court guidance.

What the Data Shows

The Judicial Department publishes annual statistics on caseloads and outcomes. The Supreme Court publishes practice reviews. These sources are public and can be checked for any category of dispute before deciding whether to sue.

The Nuanced Reality

Real risks exist. Service on foreign parties is slow. Courts are formal about documents, and a missing apostille can derail a claim. Criminal cases have a very high conviction rate once they reach trial, which calls for early defense work.

When Russian Courts Work Well

Documented debt claims, contract disputes with clear paperwork, recovery from Russian assets and corporate disputes over Russian companies are handled predictably. The court is often the only venue with direct power over assets located in Russia.

How to Check Your Own Case

Look at the documents first, then at similar published decisions in the same court. Assess the defendant's assets. This check replaces assumptions with an actual picture of the dispute.

Pay attention to the contract's dispute clause. It may send the case to arbitration or a foreign court, and a Russian court will then examine whether that clause can be enforced. Check the limitation period as well, which for most civil claims is three years. Delay caused by doubts about the courts can cost the claim itself.

The main channel of communication with the attorney is email: attorneypetrova1@gmail.com.