The oral proceedings are the actual hearing: they follow the interim procedure and precede the decision.
Purpose
The oral proceedings aim to hear the parties (Rule 112.2(a) of the Rules of Procedure) and to establish all facts necessary for the decision (Rule 112.2(b) of the Rules of Procedure).
A One-Day Hearing
The hearing should, as far as possible, not exceed one day (Rule 113 of the Rules of Procedure), unless adjourned, particularly if additional evidence is required (Rule 114 of the Rules of Procedure). The presiding judge may limit speaking times to adhere to the schedule (Rule 113.1 of the Rules of Procedure).
Public Access and Recording
The hearing is public, unless the judges decide otherwise (Rule 115 of the Rules of Procedure), and is recorded, with the recording made available to the parties at the UPC premises.
Procedure
The hearing takes place before the panel of judges who will render the decision (Rule 112.1 of the Rules of Procedure). A judge provides a brief introduction (Rule 112.3 of the Rules of Procedure); as its content is not defined by the rules, it will likely reflect the national legal culture of the judge (claim interpretation, recap of the facts, etc.). The judges may ask questions, and during the examination of a witness, both the judges and the parties may question them, within the framework set by the judge-rapporteur or the presiding judge (Rules 112.3 and 113.2 of the Rules of Procedure).
What Happens Next?
Once the hearing is closed, the panel deliberates and issues its decision, with the UPC aiming to deliver it promptly (the stated goal being approximately six weeks after the hearing).