Legal analysis: Defenders have the right to independently read papers. In criminal proceedings, defense lawyers have the right to consult, extract and copy the case files from the date when the procuratorate examines and prosecutes the case. From the date when the people's procuratorate examines and prosecutes the case, the defense lawyer may consult, extract and copy the case file. Other defenders may also consult, extract and copy the above materials with the permission of the people's court or the people's procuratorate.
Legal basis: Article 40 of the Criminal Procedure Law of People's Republic of China (PRC). From the date when the people's procuratorate examines and files the case, the defense lawyer may consult, extract and copy the case file. Other defenders may also consult, extract and copy the above materials with the permission of the people's court or the people's procuratorate.