åtalas

Åtalas is a Swedish legal term meaning to be charged or indicted with a crime. It describes the formal act by which a public prosecutor brings criminal charges against a person or, in some cases, a legal entity, after an investigative phase. The charges are set out in an indictment, called åtal, which specifies the alleged offences, the facts, and the requested penalties. The person named in the indictment is referred to as åtalad.

Process: After an investigation by police or other authorities, the prosecutor considers whether there is sufficient evidence to prosecute. If yes, the prosecutor files åtal with the district court (tingsrätt) or, in some instances, with a special court. The case is then scheduled for a huvudförhandling (main hearing). The accused may be remanded in custody during the investigation, or released with conditions; the defense is provided with representation.

In court, the prosecution and defense present evidence, call witnesses, and argue the charges. The court renders a verdict of guilty or not guilty, and if convicted, imposes a sentence. The decision can be appealed to higher courts.

Åtalas can be used for both individuals and juridical persons that are charged with crimes. The term is commonly found in legal texts, media, and everyday language. It is distinct from åtal (the indictment) and åklagare (the prosecutor).