Victims' rights - by country

Finska

Sadržaj omogućio
Finska

Can I appeal against the ruling?

You can appeal against the ruling of a district court (käräjäoikeus) before a court of appeal (hovioikeus). As a general rule, you will need a leave for further consideration in order for a court of appeal to process the case fully.

An appeal against a judgment by a court of appeal can be made to the Supreme Court (korkein oikeus). You will need permission to appeal to the Supreme Court. This will only be granted under the conditions laid down by law.

What are my rights after sentencing?

With some serious crimes, you can ask to be informed of the release of the offender from prison or pre-trial detention (see below).

Am I entitled to support or protection after the trial? For how long?

Victim support organisations provide support and advice even after the trial

for as long as needed. In cases of domestic violence, a safety plan will be drawn up as part of Multi-Agency Risk Assessment. This is not tied to the ending of the trial.

If you are a victim of human trafficking, your right to special assistance from the Assistance system for victims of human trafficking will cease if the criminal proceedings end without anyone being convicted for human trafficking by a final decision of the court.

What information will I be given if the offender is sentenced?

You have the right to be informed, at your request, of the judgment in a criminal case. The judgment indicates the sentence passed on the accused, including the term of imprisonment.

Parties to criminal proceedings receive a copy of the judgment. You will not be told which prison the offender may be sent to.

Will I be told if the offender is released (including early or conditional release) or escapes from prison?

With some serious crimes, you can ask to be informed if the offender is released from prison or pre-trial detention, escapes, or, under certain conditions, otherwise leaves prison. If you wish to be notified, you must tell this to the pre-trial investigation authority or prosecutor. The investigation authority will provide further information.

You will only be informed if it is believed that this will not pose a risk to the life or health of the prisoner or someone in pre-trial detention.

Will I be involved in release or parole decisions? For example, can I make a statement or lodge an appeal?

No, you have no such right.

Last update: 04/02/2021

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