Defense counsel Liisa Holopainen confirms she may request a psychiatric evaluation for her client. The young mother faces suspicion of killing her newborn baby in Lohja, Finland.
Police believe the woman gave birth at home last Friday. The infant died the same evening in their apartment building.
Holopainen stated they are actively considering this option. Both prosecutors and defense can request mental state examinations during preliminary investigations.
This procedure remains uncommon but legally possible in Finland's judicial system. No final decision has been made about proceeding with the evaluation.
The newborn's death occurred in a residential building in Lohja, a town 60 kilometers west of Helsinki. Authorities suspect serious neglect rather than direct violence caused the infant's death.
Another adult present in the apartment alerted emergency services. Police continue investigating this person's potential involvement and whether they are the child's parent.
Close relatives reportedly had no knowledge of the pregnancy. Investigators confirmed the pregnancy was in its late stages though exact gestation weeks remain undisclosed.
Finnish law typically reserves mental examinations for court requests after establishing criminal responsibility. This case shows alternative pathways exist within the legal framework.
The tragedy highlights challenges in Finland's maternal support systems despite the country's generally strong social safety net.