Haldusõigus

Haldusõigus, or administrative law, is a branch of public law that governs the actions of public authorities and their relations with private individuals and legal entities. It sets out how public administration operates in practice, including how decisions are made, implemented, and reviewed. The main aim is to ensure legality, fairness, efficiency and accountability in the conduct of public administration.

Key topics include administrative acts (such as decisions, permits, sanctions), administrative procedures (notices, hearings, deadlines, access to information), and the powers and limitations of public authorities. Administrative acts must be lawful, proportionate and reasoned; individuals typically have rights to participate in procedures, to be informed, and to challenge or appeal decisions.

Remedies and control mechanisms are central. Administrative decisions can be reviewed by courts or other review bodies; typical remedies include annulment, modification, or substitution of a decision, and, in some systems, compensation for damages. In many jurisdictions, an ombudsman or administrative inspectorate supervises public administration and protects rights.

The theory of haldusõigus connects to constitutional law, public finance, and civil procedure. The sources include the constitution, statutory framework governing administrative procedure, implementing regulations, and jurisprudence from administrative and constitutional courts. In practice, haldusõigus guides everyday public administration, from issuing permits and licenses to imposing penalties and resolving disputes between citizens and the state.