La Oralidad en el Sistema de la Justicia Civil y la Importancia del Principio de Inmediación en su Desarrollo

This article analyzes the transformation of the Ecuadorian civil justice system following the constitutional mandate of 2008 and the implementation of the Código Orgánico General de Procesos (COGEP). Historically characterized by a written–inquisitorial model marked by bureaucratic delays and limited access to justice, the judicial system underwent a profound shift toward an oral, concentrated and adversarial process. Through a qualitative and documentary methodology, this study examines constitutional principles, doctrinal perspectives, procedural reports and institutional reforms that give structure to the oral system. Particular emphasis is placed on the principle of immediacy as an epistemic and guarantees-based foundation that ensures direct judicial perception of evidence, transparency, and the integrity of the decision-making process. The analysis further addresses the 2023 reform authorizing telematic hearings as a general rule, identifying the risks this poses to effective contradiction, authenticity of evidence and due process. The findings show that oral proceedings have strengthened efficiency and legal certainty; however, the excessive reliance on virtual hearings may undermine the core values that justify the oral system in civil justice.