Strafföreläggande

Strafföreläggande is a legal procedure in Sweden used to impose a penalty, typically a fine, without a court trial. It is an alternative to prosecution when the evidence against a suspect is clear and the offense is relatively minor. The procedure is initiated by the prosecutor who issues a strafföreläggande, which is essentially a proposal for a penalty.

The suspect receives this proposal and has the option to either accept or reject it. If the suspect accepts the strafföreläggande, the penalty becomes legally binding, similar to a court judgment. This means the individual has been found guilty and must pay the specified fine or serve any alternative penalty. Accepting the strafföreläggande avoids the need for a court case, which can be time-consuming and costly for both the individual and the legal system.

If the suspect rejects the strafföreläggande, the prosecutor can then choose to bring the case to court for a formal trial. The suspect's decision to accept or reject is made after considering the evidence presented and the proposed penalty. It is common for individuals to seek legal advice before deciding whether to accept a strafföreläggande, especially if they believe the accusation is incorrect or the penalty is disproportionate. This procedure is designed to efficiently handle less serious criminal matters and reduce the workload on the courts.