Friandefrikännande

Friandefrikännande is a Swedish legal term that translates to "acquittal" or "finding of not guilty" in English. It refers to the outcome of a criminal trial where the court determines that the accused person is not guilty of the charges brought against them. This decision means that the prosecution has failed to prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt, or the defense has successfully presented evidence that casts significant doubt on the defendant's guilt.

When a person receives a friandefrikännande, they are legally absolved of the charges. This has several implications. Firstly, they cannot be tried again for the same offense, a principle known as double jeopardy. Secondly, any prior detention or bail related to the case is terminated. Furthermore, the accused is generally entitled to compensation for any costs incurred during the legal proceedings, such as legal fees and lost income.

The friandefrikännande is a fundamental aspect of the justice system, safeguarding individuals against wrongful convictions. It underscores the presumption of innocence, placing the burden of proof squarely on the prosecution. While a friandefrikännande signifies legal innocence in relation to the specific charges, it does not necessarily imply that the alleged events did not occur, but rather that the prosecution could not definitively prove the accused's involvement. The process leading to a friandefrikännande involves rigorous examination of evidence, witness testimonies, and legal arguments presented by both the prosecution and the defense.