Todistajapalkkiot

Todistajapalkkiot refer to compensation paid to witnesses for appearing in legal proceedings. They are intended to cover the costs of participation and to compensate for time and inconvenience, thereby supporting access to justice.

Typically, todistajapalkkiot can include several components. Travel costs, such as transportation and mileage, are commonly reimbursed. If a witness must stay near the court or miss work, accommodation and meals may be covered. In addition, a daily allowance or per diem may be provided to acknowledge the time spent away from daily duties, and in some cases, compensation for lost wages or income is available.

Administration and payment arrangements vary by jurisdiction. In many systems, the party that summons the witness bears the responsibility for arranging and funding these costs, with reimbursement coming from the court or state funds. Receipts or other documentation may be required, and there may be caps, fixed rates, or guidelines to determine the amounts. It is possible in some cases that a court can order payment even if the party who called the witness does not prevail in the case.

In a Nordic and broader European context, todistajapalkkiot are part of the broader mechanism to reduce barriers to participation in judicial proceedings. While the general purpose is consistent, the exact rates, eligible expenses, and procedures are set by national laws, regulations, and court guidelines and can vary between jurisdictions and case types.

See also: todistajien kulukorvaus, list of witness-related costs.