Förhöret

Förhöret, also known as the preliminary questioning or the pre-trial questioning, is a part of the pre-trial procedure in the Swedish criminal justice system. It takes place before the trial and is conducted by the prosecutor. The purpose of förhöret is to verify the information presented in a case and to clarify any uncertainties or discrepancies.

During förhöret, the prosecutor will question the suspects, witnesses, and other individuals involved in the case. The questioning can take place in the presence or absence of the suspect, but generally, it is done in the absence of the suspect to avoid influencing their testimony. The prosecutor will ask questions to clarify the sequence of events, gather additional information, and evaluate the credibility of the witnesses.

Förhöret often takes place behind closed doors, and its content is not disclosed to the public. The information gathered during förhöret can be used to support or refute the charges against the accused, and it may also lead to new lines of inquiry.

The results of förhöret are typically set out in a report, which is reviewed by the prosecutor and often the court. While förhöret is an essential part of the pre-trial procedure, its reporting obligation under the law is limited, which has led to criticism that it may compromise the transparency and fairness of the Swedish justice system.

Förhöret is a critical stage in the Swedish criminal justice process, and its results can significantly impact the outcome of a case. However, the seclusion and limitations on reporting surrounding förhöret have raised concerns about its influence on the integrity of the system.