Existing user? Sign in
Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Sex crime matters in Lahti are governed by Finnish national criminal law - primarily the Finnish Criminal Code - and are handled locally by the Police in Päijät-Häme, the Prosecutor's Office and the Päijät-Häme District Court. Finnish law covers a range of offences described in general terms as sexual offences - including sexual assault and rape, sexual abuse of a child, exploitation, and production or possession of sexual material involving minors. Investigations are led by the police, prosecutions are conducted by public prosecutors, and trials are heard in the district court. Lahti residents will use local police and court services, and can access victim support and social services locally. The system places strong emphasis on consent, protection of minors and victim support, while ensuring procedural rights for people suspected of crimes.
Sexual offence cases are often complex and emotionally charged. You may need a lawyer in many different situations - whether you are a person who has been accused, a person who alleges they were assaulted, or a witness. Common situations where legal help is important include:
- If you are accused of a sexual offence - to protect your rights during police questioning, to advise on pre-trial detention or bail, and to represent you in court.
- If you have been the victim - to help report the offence, to request protective measures such as a restraining order, to advise about criminal and civil claims for compensation, and to represent you in hearings.
- During police interviews and pre-trial investigations - to ensure proper handling of evidence and inform you of your rights.
- When issues involve children - to coordinate between police, social services and the courts, and to ensure sensitive handling of interviews and evidence.
- When the case has cross-border elements - such as offences involving foreign nationals, evidence abroad or extradition questions.
Even if you do not plan to go to court, a lawyer can advise on immediate steps, communications with authorities, and how to preserve evidence and personal safety.
Key legal points relevant in Lahti - and in Finland generally - include the following.
- Definitions and categories - Sexual offences are defined in the Criminal Code and include rape, sexual assault, sexual exploitation, sexual abuse of a child, inducing a minor into sexual activity, and offences related to sexual material involving minors. There are also aggravated forms for more serious circumstances.
- Consent - Lack of voluntary consent is central. Sexual activity without consent can constitute an offence even if no physical violence is used, particularly if the victim has been coerced, threatened or is incapacitated.
- Age limits - The general age of sexual consent in Finland is 16. Sexual acts with persons under that age may be crimes; special protection applies to minors and additional offences cover sexual abuse, inducement and exploitation of children.
- Evidence and burden of proof - Criminal convictions require the prosecutor to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Evidence can include testimony, forensic medical examinations, digital evidence and witness statements. Timing of medical attention and preservation of evidence can be important.
- Investigation powers - Police may question suspects and witnesses, secure physical and digital evidence and, with prosecutor or court approval, use measures such as searches and seizures. Pre-trial detention can be ordered if there is a legal basis and it is necessary to prevent obstruction of the inquiry or further offences.
- Protective measures - Victims can request police assistance, seek a restraining order - known as lähestymiskielto - and ask authorities to take measures to protect safety. Social services and healthcare providers also play a role in protection and recovery.
- Victim rights - Victims have rights to support, information, legal assistance and in many cases to apply for state compensation for injuries caused by crime. Specialist victim support services are available locally and nationally.
- Legal aid and representation - People accused of crimes have the right to counsel. If a person cannot afford a lawyer, public legal aid or an assigned defender may be available for the accused. Victims can also access legal aid for certain matters depending on income and the issue.
Sex crimes include any sexual act that violates another person’s sexual autonomy or involves a person who cannot legally consent, such as a minor. Examples are rape, sexual assault, sexual abuse of a child, sexual exploitation, and offences related to sexual images of minors. The specific legal classification depends on the facts - use of violence, threat, coercion, age of the victim and other circumstances determine the charge and severity.
The general age of consent in Finland is 16. Sexual activity with persons under 16 can be criminal, and there are special offences protecting children that apply to sexual acts, inducement and sexual materials involving minors.
First, get to a safe place and call emergency services if you are in immediate danger. Seek medical attention as soon as possible - a hospital can treat injuries, offer advice on sexual health and, if you agree, perform a forensic examination to preserve evidence. You can also contact the police to make a report and contact victim support services for practical and emotional assistance. Try to preserve evidence - avoid showering, changing clothes or washing items you may wish to keep as evidence - and keep a record of what happened as soon as you are able.
No one is forced to report a crime, but reporting to the police starts a criminal investigation that can lead to prosecution. Reporting can also allow you to request protective measures and to apply for state victim compensation later. If you are unsure, victim support organisations and social services can help you understand options before deciding whether to file a formal report.
If you are suspected or accused of a crime you have the right to legal counsel. If you cannot afford a private lawyer, legal aid may be available and a defender can be appointed in serious cases. It is strongly advisable to secure legal representation early, particularly before police interviews or decisions about detention.
A restraining order - referred to in Finnish law as lähestymiskielto - is a measure to prevent a person from approaching or contacting another person. Victims can request police help in obtaining such an order; prosecutors or courts may issue orders when there is a legal basis. Police can also take immediate steps to protect someone at risk. A lawyer or victim support worker can assist with the process.
Penalties vary by the offence and its severity. They range from fines for lesser offences to imprisonment for more serious or aggravated sexual offences. Sentences reflect factors such as use of force, threats, the age of the victim, repeat offending and other aggravating circumstances. A lawyer can explain likely legal consequences based on the specific facts.
Timing varies widely. A pre-trial police investigation may take weeks or months depending on the complexity and evidence. Court proceedings can add several months to over a year, especially if there are appeals. Cases involving children, extensive forensic work or cross-border evidence may take longer.
Yes - victims can pursue state compensation for injuries caused by crime and can also bring civil claims for damages against the offender. State victim compensation and civil proceedings have different procedures and deadlines. A lawyer or victim support service can advise on eligibility, application processes and deadlines.
Finnish law provides special protections for minors and vulnerable persons. Interviews with children are conducted by trained professionals using child-sensitive methods and social services and child welfare authorities become involved where the child’s wellbeing is at risk. Reporting to child protection services may be required if a child is in danger. Legal guardians and specialised lawyers may be involved to protect the child’s rights in criminal and welfare proceedings.
Below are agencies and services that can help people in Lahti or elsewhere in Finland - contact them for assistance, information or referrals.
- Local Police - for reporting crimes, seeking immediate protection and initiating criminal investigations.
- Päijät-Häme District Court - handles trials and judicial measures in the Lahti area.
- Office of the Prosecutor - decides on charges and pursues criminal prosecutions.
- Legal Aid Office - provides information on public legal aid and may assign defence counsel for those who qualify financially.
- Finnish Bar Association - can help you locate a qualified criminal defence lawyer or a lawyer experienced with sexual offence matters.
- Victim Support Finland (Rikosuhripäivystys) - offers confidential emotional support, practical help and information to victims of crime.
- Lahti social and health services - local social services can assist victims with counselling, safety planning and coordination with other authorities.
- Hospital emergency departments and sexual assault examination services - for medical care, documentation and forensic examinations after an assault.
- National Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) - provides guidance and statistics on violence and health services.
If you are dealing with a sexual offence matter in Lahti, consider the following practical next steps.
- Ensure immediate safety - if you are in danger call emergency services (112) and go to a safe place.
- Seek medical attention - hospitals can provide treatment and, with your consent, collect forensic evidence. Early medical care also addresses injuries, sexually transmitted infection prevention and pregnancy concerns.
- Consider reporting to the police - think about whether you want to make a formal complaint. You can get advice from victim support services before deciding.
- Preserve evidence and records - keep clothing, messages, photos and any other materials related to the incident. Write down details of the incident as soon as you are able.
- Contact victim support and social services - for emotional support, guidance and help with practical matters such as protection measures and navigating the system.
- Consult a lawyer - if you are accused, talk to a criminal defence lawyer immediately. If you are a victim, a lawyer can advise on protective measures, compensation claims and legal procedures. Ask about legal aid if cost is a concern.
- Avoid direct contact with the other party - do not communicate with the alleged offender, and avoid posting details on social media that could affect the case or your safety.
- Keep records of all interactions with authorities - note dates, names and content of meetings and calls with police, social services, medical staff and lawyers.
- Prepare for a process that may take time - collect documents, witness contacts and any supporting material your lawyer recommends. Ask your lawyer what to expect at each stage.
Remember - this guide provides general information and is not a substitute for personalised legal advice. If you need legal representation or specific guidance about your situation in Lahti, contact a qualified lawyer or the local legal aid office as soon as possible.
