hallintotuomioistuimet

Hallintotuomioistuimet, or administrative courts, form a distinct part of Finland’s judiciary and handle disputes arising from public administration. Their remit covers cases where private individuals or organizations challenge decisions or actions taken by public authorities, or where the legality of administrative conduct is reviewed. The courts ensure that administrative actions comply with law and protect individuals’ rights in relation to public power.

The administrative court system includes district-level administrative courts as the first instance. From there, appeals go to higher administrative courts (hallinto-oikeudet), and finally to the Supreme Administrative Court (Korkein hallinto-oikeus), which serves as the highest appellate body for administrative matters.

Matters commonly handled include taxation and social security decisions, immigration and asylum decisions, land-use and building permits, environmental authorisations, and disputes concerning municipal decisions or public procurement. The courts also review the legality of actions taken by authorities and can annul, amend, or suspend administrative decisions when appropriate.

Proceedings are governed by the Administrative Procedure Act and other relevant laws. They typically involve written submissions and, in many cases, oral hearings. The courts can issue provisional measures to safeguard rights while a case is decided. Decisions are subject to appeal to the higher administrative courts and ultimately to the Supreme Administrative Court, ensuring a principled check on public administration.

Independence and impartiality are fundamental principles of hallintotuomioistuimet, reflecting Finland’s commitment to lawful administration and accessible judicial review of administrative actions.