Klagten

Klagten is a term in Nordic legal language used to denote the person who is charged or accused in a court case. In Danish law, the standard designation for the defendant in criminal proceedings is tiltalte, while klagten may appear in historical texts or in civil procedures where a complaint has been brought against a person. In practice, the term emphasizes the party against whom the charges or complaints are directed.

As a party to the case, the klagten is granted procedural rights and responsibilities. Key rights include the presumption of innocence, the right to be informed of the charges, the right to legal counsel, the right to a fair trial, the right to present evidence, and the right to confront witnesses. The klagten may also have the right to interpretation, the right to silence, and the right to appeal a verdict.

Process: In criminal matters, charges are brought by a public prosecutor or other authorities; the case is brought before a court, where the klagten may defend themselves, question witnesses, and challenge evidence. Depending on the outcome, the court may acquit, convict, or refer for sentencing. In civil contexts, the klagten is the party against whom a civil claim or complaint is directed, and the procedure seeks remedies such as damages or injunctions.

Notes: The precise use and translation of klagten vary by jurisdiction and historical period. In modern Danish usage, tiltalte is the common term for a criminal defendant, while klagten remains a recognized but less common designation in some contexts.

See also: Tiltalte; Anklage; Ret; Domstol.