Syyttäjä

Syyttäjä is a public official who acts as the state's prosecutor in Finland. They are part of the Finnish prosecution service, which operates through regional and national offices and is responsible for the administration of criminal prosecutions.

As the primary legal representative of the state in criminal matters, a Syyttäjä supervises pre-trial investigations conducted by police and other authorities, evaluates evidence, and decides whether to bring charges and what charges to file. In court, they represent the state, present the case, and handle appeals. They may also decide on pre-trial measures such as detention within the limits of the law.

Decisions by a Syyttäjä are intended to be independent of political influence and must follow the law and professional ethics. The prosecution service is designed to safeguard fairness and the impartial application of criminal law.

Organizationally, prosecutors work in regional offices under the national Office of the Prosecutor General. The structure aims to ensure consistent practice across the country and to coordinate national-level prosecutions and specialized units for areas such as organized crime, securities fraud, and corruption.

The role involves cooperation with the police, courts, and other authorities, as well as international cooperation in cross-border criminal matters. The Syyttäjä's office plays a central part in ensuring due process and the proper administration of justice in Finland.