Perustuslajit

Perustuslajit are the fundamental courts within the Finnish judicial system, responsible for handling the most serious legal matters at the first instance. The system is organized into several levels, with perustuslajit serving as the highest courts for criminal, civil, and administrative cases.

The two main types of perustuslajit are the Court of Appeal (Hovioikeus) and the Supreme Court (Korkein oikeus). The Court of Appeal operates in multiple geographical regions and primarily hears appeals from lower courts, including District Courts (käräjäoikeudet). It reviews cases for both factual and legal errors and has the authority to confirm, revoke, or modify decisions.

The Supreme Court, as the apex judicial authority, primarily handles cases of significant legal importance or those that have raised substantial legal questions. It reviews cases only through leave to appeal, ensuring consistency and uniformity in Finnish law. The Supreme Court’s decisions are final and serve as authoritative interpretations of Finnish law.

Perustuslajit play a crucial role in safeguarding legal consistency, ensuring justice, and upholding constitutional principles. Judges within these courts are appointed through a transparent process and are tasked with applying the law impartially. The structure of the perustuslajit reflects Finland’s commitment to an independent judiciary and rule of law, providing a critical mechanism for legal review and dispute resolution in the country.