Õiguskaitsjad

Õiguskaitsjad is the Estonian term for legal defenders or advocates. This broad category encompasses professionals who are dedicated to upholding the law and protecting the rights of individuals and organizations. In Estonia, the most prominent õiguskaitsjad are lawyers, including attorneys-at-law (advokaadid) and sworn advocates (vandeadvokaadid). These individuals are licensed legal professionals who provide legal advice, represent clients in court, and draft legal documents. They operate under a strict code of ethics and are bound by attorney-client privilege.

Beyond private practice lawyers, the term õiguskaitsjad can also extend to public prosecutors (prokurörid), whose role is to represent the state in criminal proceedings and ensure that justice is served. Law enforcement officers, such as police officers, also act as õiguskaitsjad in their duty to maintain order and enforce laws. Furthermore, certain public officials and employees within government institutions who are responsible for interpreting and applying laws can be considered as õiguskaitsjad in their specific capacities. The overarching goal of all õiguskaitsjad is to ensure the proper functioning of the legal system and the protection of legal rights within Estonian society.