Hallintamenettely

Hallintamenettely, or administrative procedure, is the procedural framework used by public authorities in Finland when making administrative decisions that affect individuals or organizations. It aims to ensure legality, impartiality, and the protection of rights and legitimate expectations.

The rules are primarily set out in the Administrative Procedure Act and supplemented by sector-specific legislation. The hallintamenettely covers how a proceeding is started, what information must be collected, who may participate, how the decision is prepared, and how it is communicated to those involved.

A typical process includes initiation or receipt of a matter, information gathering and assessment, opportunity to be heard and to present evidence, consideration of arguments, drafting of a reasoned decision, and notification of the decision. In some areas, special procedures may apply with adaptations for urgency, secrecy, or other justified reasons.

Rights and obligations within hallintamenettely include the right to be heard, access to relevant documents, the ability to submit evidence and arguments, and to receive a reasoned decision. Authorities must act in accordance with the principle of proportionality, strive for clarity and efficiency, and ensure equality before the law.

After a decision, remedies are typically available: decisions can be challenged or appealed to a higher authority or administrative court within applicable time limits, and in some cases other oversight bodies may be involved. The process should be transparent, and decisions should include a clear rationale.

Overall, hallintamenettely is a core element of Finnish public administration, shaping how public power is exercised in a predictable, lawful, and rights-respecting manner.