Kuulustelua

Kuulustelua is a formal questioning or interrogation carried out by authorities, most commonly by police or prosecutors, as part of criminal investigations in Finland. It can involve suspects, accused persons, or witnesses and serves to gather information, clarify facts, and obtain statements relevant to an investigation. Interrogations typically take place at police stations, prosecutor offices, or other authorized premises and are usually recorded in written form or by audio or video.

Legal framework and rights are central to kuulustelu. The procedure operates within the Finnish criminal procedure framework, and interrogations must be conducted lawfully and with safeguards against coercion. Individuals being questioned are generally informed of the purpose of the questioning and of their rights, including the possibility of having a lawyer present and the right to remain silent or refuse to answer questions. If needed, an interpreter can be provided, and the presence of a defense counsel may be arranged, especially in cases involving a suspect or serious charges. Statements obtained during a kuulustelu can be used as evidence, provided they are voluntary and reliable.

Practice and scope can vary depending on the stage of the investigation. Kuulustelu may occur early in the esitutkinta (preliminary investigation) and can be repeated as new information emerges. It is distinct from courtroom examinations, though statements gathered during kuulustelu can influence later judicial proceedings. Safeguards, fair treatment, and accurate documentation are emphasized to ensure the integrity of the process.