Rikosväite

Rikosväite is a Finnish legal term that translates to "criminal allegation" or "criminal claim." It refers to a statement or assertion made by one party, typically the prosecutor or a victim, that a specific crime has been committed. This allegation forms the basis for initiating a criminal investigation or prosecution.

A rikosväite is not a conviction. It is the initial assertion that requires further investigation by the authorities. Finnish law requires that a rikosväite be substantiated with evidence before formal charges can be filed or a trial can commence. The burden of proof lies with the party making the allegation.

The process typically begins when a complaint or report is filed with the police. This report may contain a rikosväite. Law enforcement then investigates the allegations to determine if there is sufficient probable cause to proceed. If the investigation yields enough evidence, the prosecutor may then formally press charges, which are essentially a more formalized rikosväite that will be presented in court.

It is important to distinguish a rikosväite from a proven fact. Until a court of law finds a defendant guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, the rikosväite remains an accusation. The presumption of innocence is a fundamental principle in Finnish law, meaning an individual is considered innocent until proven guilty, regardless of any rikosväite made against them.