Refsirétt

Refsirétt is a legal concept within Scandinavian legal systems, particularly in Norway, that refers to the principle of retribution or just deserts. It is the idea that punishment should be proportionate to the severity of the crime committed, serving as a form of societal moral condemnation and a way to express disapproval of wrongdoing. This principle contrasts with purely utilitarian justifications for punishment, such as deterrence or rehabilitation, by focusing on the idea that offenders *deserve* to be punished because they have violated societal norms and harmed others.

The concept of refsirétt is rooted in the notion of justice, suggesting that a just society requires a response to criminal acts that reflects their gravity. It implies that the punishment itself is intrinsically justified by the offense, rather than being merely a tool for achieving some future good. While not the sole principle guiding sentencing in these jurisdictions, refsirétt plays a significant role in shaping judicial decisions. Judges consider the offender's culpability and the impact of the crime when determining an appropriate sentence, aiming for a balance that upholds both societal condemnation and proportionality. This focus on desert means that the punishment is seen as a deserved consequence for past actions.