Key Legal Positions of the Constitutional Court of the Russian Federation: Q1 2026 Review

On 29 April 2026, the Constitutional Court of the Russian Federation (the “CCRF”) has published its case law review for the first quarter of 2026, comprising 19 judgments and 6 rulings¹. The document systematizes decisions across administrative, labor, private and criminal law, establishing new standards for the protection of individuals and businesses.

Key Developments and Findings

• The CCRF affirmed the right to judicial protection of property claims arising from the lawful possession of digital currency, regardless of whether it was acquired through mining or other means. A prerequisite for such protection is the submission of evidence confirming that the digital currency in question was obtained and utilized on a lawful basis².
• The CCRF held as impermissible any contractual terms requiring a consumer to return non-defective goods in person to a location outside their place of residence. Pending legislative amendments, the return of non-defective goods sold via distance contracts shall be carried out by any method at the buyer’s discretion—provided the method allows the seller to inspect the condition of the goods upon receipt—including via carriers or postal services. In such instances, the buyer takes the risk of accidental loss or damage during transit and bears all transportation and related delivery costs³.
• The CCRF recognized the necessity of registering citizens at their place of stay in non-residential premises (apartments), provided that their characteristics (as per design documentation) are similar to residential units in multi-family buildings and they are not part of a hotel or other lodging facility. To register, a claimant must submit, inter alia, documents confirming the building was designed for human habitation and that the specific unit is fit for such use⁴.
• The CCRF noted that current legislation does not provide for the imposition of liability on a taxpayer for failing to appear for interrogation as a witness regarding their own business activities within the scope of an on-site tax audit⁵.
• The CCRF declared par. 2 of the Article 60 of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation unconstitutional to the extent it allowed courts to deny creditors’ claims for early bond redemption without assessing the actual financial consequences of a reorganization. Pending legislative changes, courts are obliged to examine the debtor's financial standing resulting from the reorganization procedure. The burden of proving that the reorganization did not impair the financial condition or prejudice the interests of creditors rests with the debtor (issuer) or its legal successor.

Commentary

The CCRF’s practice in Q1 2026 demonstrates a consistent shift toward strengthening the protection of the “weaker party” in legal relationships—namely employees, consumers and private investors. Significant emphasis is placed on adapting the legal system to new economic realities, such as the legalization of digital asset circulation and the enhancement of consumer rights in online sales. Taken together, these legal positions facilitate preparation for forthcoming legislation and the emerging regulatory framework.