Fiches Belges: Finland

Is this measure possible in your Member State under International Judicial Cooperation?

Yes

International legal framework applicable for this measure in your Member State

European Convention on Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters (CETS 030)

* receive the request/decision for judicial cooperation

According to the Convention - Ministry of Justice. The request may also be sent to the Office of the Prosecutor General. Requests from Nordic countries shall be sent directly to local Prosecution Districts. Information about the competent local authorities can be obtained from EJN contact points.

* execute/recognise the measure (if other than the receiving authority)

All Prosecution Districts.

Accepted languages for the request/decision

Finnish, Swedish, English. If persons who are heard in pre-trial investigation speak Finnish or Swedish and the hearings are interpreted, a recording of the original hearing would be highly appreciated.

Deadlines for the execution of the request/decision (where applicable)

no specific deadlines

a. Special requirements

Minimum penalty threshold is 6 months if the only ground for Finnish jurisdiction is the request of transfer. If persons who are heard in pre trial investigation speak Finnish or Swedish and the hearings are interpreted, the hearings should be recorded and the recording should be attached to the material.

b. Other useful information

A case can be transferred already in the pre-trial investigation stage if every measure that can be done in the requesting state has been fulfilled. In all the situations, a prior discussion about transfer with the Office of the Prosecutor General is advisable (email kv.syyttaja@oikeus.fi).