Oikeuslähteinä

Oikeuslähteinä refers to legal sources in Finnish law. These are the origins and authorities from which legal rules and principles are derived. In the Finnish legal system, as in many civil law traditions, the primary legal source is legislation, enacted by the Parliament. This includes statutes, decrees, and other legally binding regulations.

Another significant source is case law, particularly decisions from the Supreme Court (Korkein oikeus) and the Supreme Administrative Court (Korkein hallinto-oikeus). While Finland is not a common law jurisdiction where precedent is strictly binding, these high court decisions have considerable persuasive authority and guide lower courts in their interpretations.

Legal doctrine, the writings of legal scholars, also plays a role. Academic commentary and analysis can influence the understanding and development of law, though it is not a binding source in itself. International treaties ratified by Finland and EU law are also crucial legal sources, often requiring national implementation.

When interpreting the law, courts and legal practitioners consider all these sources to determine the applicable legal rules and their meaning. The hierarchy of legal sources generally places legislation at the top, followed by international law and EU law, then case law, and finally legal doctrine. This framework ensures consistency and predictability in the application of law.