retssagen

Retssagen is the formal legal proceeding in Danish courts in which a dispute is resolved. It applies to both criminal prosecutions and civil cases and marks the culmination of pre-trial work such as investigations and indictments. During the retssagen, the parties present evidence, examine witnesses, and make legal arguments. The court then renders a verdict or judgment, and in criminal cases may order sentencing if guilt is established.

Procedural features include that trials are generally public and conducted under rules meant to safeguard fair procedure. Participants have rights such as access to legal representation, the ability to present and challenge evidence, and the possibility to appeal the court’s decision. The prosecution bears the burden of proving guilt in criminal cases, while civil cases are decided based on the evidence and applicable civil procedure.

Etymology and usage: The term retssagen comes from the Danish words ret, meaning law, and sagen, meaning the case or matter. The word refers specifically to the trial event as the stage where the dispute is adjudicated, distinguishing it from earlier investigative or pre-trial steps. In everyday Danish, retssagen denotes the courtroom proceeding itself, rather than the entire legal process.

See also: Criminal procedure, civil procedure, Danish legal system.