Yleissääntönä

Yleissääntönä is a Finnish term that translates to "as a general rule" or "as a general principle." It is used in legal, administrative, and everyday contexts to indicate a standard practice or a widely accepted guideline that typically applies, but may have exceptions. The term signifies that while there is a common or overarching rule, specific circumstances might warrant a deviation from it.

When a situation is described as being governed by yleissääntönä, it implies that the described course of action or principle is the default or expected approach. However, it also subtly acknowledges that unique factors can lead to different outcomes. This concept allows for flexibility within a system of established norms, preventing rigid adherence that might be impractical or unjust in certain cases.

In legal documents, yleissääntönä often precedes a statement of law that is generally applicable. For instance, a contract clause might begin with "Yleissääntönä on..." to establish a baseline condition. Similarly, in discussions about regulations or procedures, it serves to frame the standard operating procedure. Understanding yleissääntönä is crucial for interpreting rules and guidelines, as it highlights the balance between general principles and the need for case-by-case consideration. It emphasizes that while a rule exists, its application is not always absolute.