Målsäganden

Målsäganden is a Swedish legal term referring to the victim or injured party in a criminal proceeding. This individual is the person who has suffered harm or loss as a direct result of a criminal act. The målsäganden has specific rights and roles within the Swedish legal system. These rights are designed to ensure their well-being and to allow them to participate in the legal process.

One of the primary roles of the målsäganden is to report the crime to the authorities, typically the police. They may also be interviewed by the police and the prosecutor to provide details about the offense and the impact it has had on them. The målsäganden has the right to be informed about the progress of the investigation and any decisions made regarding the case, such as whether charges will be brought or if a case is dropped.

In court, the målsäganden can participate as a witness and may also seek compensation for damages, both financial and non-financial, suffered as a consequence of the crime. This process for seeking compensation is known as "skadestånd" in Swedish law. The prosecutor represents the interests of the state, while the målsäganden's personal interests and well-being are a significant consideration throughout the legal proceedings. The concept of målsäganden emphasizes the victim's perspective and their right to justice within the criminal justice system.