Criminal law in Denmark

Danish criminal law is called strafferet. It covers offences against people, property, public order, the state, and other protected interests, together with rules on responsibility and punishment. The police, called Politi, receive reports and investigate suspected offences. They may interview people, collect physical or digital evidence, and use coercive measures only within the applicable legal framework. The Prosecution Service, called Anklagemyndigheden, evaluates criminal cases and brings charges when the legal basis is considered sufficient. Prosecutors are expected to consider information relevant both to guilt and to innocence. The courts decide whether an accused person is guilty. The prosecution carries the burden of proving the criminal charge, and unresolved reasonable doubt benefits the accused. A suspect or accused person has procedural rights, including the right not to incriminate themselves and access to legal assistance in relevant circumstances. A defence lawyer is called a forsvarer. A person harmed by an offence may report it, provide evidence, and receive information about parts of the process. In some cases, an injured person can receive special assistance or pursue compensation within or alongside the criminal proceedings. Criminal cases may end in different ways. An investigation may be closed, a case may be resolved through a simplified procedure where legally available, or charges may lead to a court hearing and judgment. Danish penalties can include fines, imprisonment, suspended sentences, community-based measures, and other legal consequences. The response depends on the offence, circumstances, evidence, and rules governing sentencing. Criminal records, immigration status, employment, and family life can be affected by a case or conviction. Anyone facing arrest, questioning, or a serious allegation should obtain individual legal advice rather than relying on a general summary.