You are considered a victim of crime if you have been the victim of an act or omission which constitutes a crime according to Finnish law. As a victim of crime, you have certain rights before, during and after court proceedings.
Criminal proceedings in Finland start with a pre-trial investigation, usually conducted by the police. During this stage, it will be established whether or not an offence has actually been committed, under what circumstances it occurred and the identity of the parties concerned. The extent of the injury or damage caused by the offence and your claims as a victim will also be examined.
If there is sufficient evidence that a criminal act was committed, the prosecutor will file charges and bring the case to court. During the trial, the court examines the evidence and either convicts the alleged offender or finds them not guilty. The criminal proceedings may continue if one of the parties lodges an appeal with a higher court.
The following links will provide you with relevant information.
1 - My rights as a victim of crime
2 - Reporting a crime and my rights during the investigation or trial
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