of others or any other form of exploitation or the exploitation of children in armed conflict are prohibited. Article 11 All persons are equal before the law and have the right to enjoy its protection without discrimination. Article 12 All persons are equal before the courts and tribunals. The States parties shall guarantee the independence of the judiciary and protect magistrates against any interference, pressure or threats. They shall also guarantee every person subject to their jurisdiction the right to seek a legal remedy before courts of all levels. Article 13 1. Everyone has the right to a fair trial that affords adequate guarantees before a competent, independent and impartial court that has been constituted by law to hear any criminal charge against him or to decide on his rights or his obligations. Each State party shall guarantee to those without the requisite financial resources legal aid to enable them to defend their rights. 2.  Trials shall be public, except in exceptional cases that may be warranted by the interests of justice in a society that respects human freedoms and rights. 9