Rikosoikeutta

Rikosoikeutta is the Finnish branch of law that governs crimes and their consequences. It covers the definitions of offenses, the sanctions that can be imposed, and the procedures by which suspicion, charges, trial, and punishment are carried out. The main statutory bases are the Criminal Code (rikoslaki) and the criminal procedure law (rikosprosessilaki). The aims of rikosoikeutta include legal certainty, proportionate punishment, safeguarding the rights of suspects and victims, and preventing crime.

The system rests on legality and the presumption of innocence. Investigations are conducted by the police and, when appropriate, charges are brought by the public prosecutor (syyttäjä). If charges are filed, the matter proceeds to court. The Finnish court system includes district courts (käräjäoikeudet), courts of appeal (hovioikeudet), and the Supreme Court (korkein oikeus). Judges, prosecutors, and defense counsel ensure a fair process, and verdicts determine guilt and sentencing.

Penalties range from fines and community sanctions to imprisonment, with possible conditional releases and rehabilitation programs. Enforcement of sentences is handled by the Finnish Criminal Sanctions Agency (Rikosseuraamusvirasto, RISE), which also oversees probation and rehabilitation.

Rikosoikeutta interacts with constitutional and human rights protections and is influenced by European Union law and the European Convention on Human Rights. It also covers juvenile justice, victim rights, and restorative justice options in appropriate contexts. The field evolves through legislative reform and court practice to reflect societal values and new forms of crime.