Väärteooigusrikkumised

Väärteoõigusrikkumised refers to minor offenses or infractions in Estonian law, distinct from criminal offenses. These are acts that violate legal norms but are considered less serious and are typically punished with fines, warnings, or community service. The legal framework for väärteoõigusrikkumised is primarily established in the Code of Procedure for Minor Offenses (Väärteoomenetluse seadustik).

The purpose of väärteoõigusrikkumised is to maintain public order and address socially harmful behavior that does not warrant the severity of criminal prosecution. Examples can include traffic violations, petty theft, public intoxication, noise disturbances, or minor property damage. The procedure for handling these cases is generally simpler and faster than criminal proceedings.

Investigating and adjudicating väärteoõigusrikkumised often falls to law enforcement agencies such as the police. Decisions regarding these offenses can be made by police officers or, in more complex cases, may proceed to court. The burden of proof in väärteoõigusrikkumised is typically lower than in criminal cases, often requiring a preponderance of the evidence rather than proof beyond a reasonable doubt. The sanctions imposed are intended to be corrective and deterrent rather than retributive. The distinction between a väärtegu (minor offense) and a kuritegu (crime) is a fundamental aspect of Estonian legal classification, guiding the application of different legal procedures and penalties.