Having your child placed in compulsory care under the Swedish LVU law is one of the most difficult experiences a parent can face. Many parents wonder how they can bring their child home again. This article provides answers to 100 of the most common questions about reunification and ending LVU care from the perspective of a parent in Sweden.
1. What does reunification mean in an LVU case?
It means the child returns home after compulsory care ends.
2. Who decides whether the child can come home?
Either the social welfare board (socialnämnden) or the administrative court.
3. Can I, as a parent, request reunification?
Yes, you have the right to request that the care ends at any time.
4. What must be fulfilled for LVU care to end?
There must no longer be a clear and present risk that the child will suffer harm.
5. How do I apply to bring my child home?
By submitting a written request to social services or directly to the administrative court.
6. Do I need a lawyer?
It’s not required, but highly recommended.
7. What does my legal counsel do in the reunification process?
Represents you, challenges the need for continued care, and presents evidence.
8. How long does the process take?
It varies, often several weeks to a few months.
9. What happens after I submit a reunification request?
Social services assess the situation and may support or oppose the request.
10. What if social services say no?
You can ask the administrative court to review the matter.
11. How often is LVU care reviewed automatically?
At least every six months, by law.
12. Can I request more frequent reviews?
Yes, if there are new circumstances.
13. What counts as new circumstances?
Examples include completed treatment, a new home environment, or changed behavior.
14. Do both parents need to agree on reunification?
No, one legal guardian can act alone.
15. Can the child request to come home?
The child’s opinion must be considered, but the decision is made by authorities.
16. What does a “clear and present risk” mean?
A real and serious risk to the child’s health or development.
17. Is completing treatment enough to bring my child home?
Not automatically, but it’s a strong positive factor.
18. How important is it to show cooperation?
Very important—it shows responsibility and willingness to change.
19. Do I have to admit past mistakes?
No, but showing insight can help your case.
20. What if nothing has changed since the placement?
It’s unlikely that care will end if the risk still exists.
21. Can reunification happen gradually?
Yes, often through planned visitation and transition periods.
22. What is a reunification plan?
A plan describing how the child will return home and what support is needed.
23. Can I help create the reunification plan?
Yes, you should be involved in the planning.
24. Can social services require me to participate in treatment?
They can make it a condition for recommending reunification.
25. Do I get access to the assessments and reports?
Yes, you have the right to see the case documentation.
26. What if the child doesn’t want to come home?
The child’s wishes are considered, but the authorities make the final decision.
27. What’s the difference between reunification and termination of care?
Termination is the formal legal decision; reunification is the actual return home.
28. Can social services block reunification without a court order?
They can object, but you still have the right to seek a court review.
29. What kind of evidence is helpful in reunification cases?
Treatment records, proof of stability, character references, etc.
30. How do my living situation, job, or finances affect the case?
Stability in these areas strengthens your case.
31. Does my criminal record affect reunification?
Yes, especially if the offenses involve violence, abuse, or neglect.
32. Can having someone else live with me help prove my home is safe?
Yes, if that person is stable and not a risk to the child.
33. What is a contact-building plan?
A plan to gradually rebuild the parent-child relationship before reunification.
34. Do I have to cooperate with the foster home?
Cooperation can help the process but is not legally required.
35. Does the foster home have a say in reunification?
They can give input, but the decision lies with social services and the court.
36. What’s the difference between voluntary return and court-ordered return?
Voluntary return requires social services’ approval; otherwise, a court decision is needed.
37. Does the child’s schooling affect reunification?
It’s a consideration, but not a barrier in itself.
38. Can I have contact with my child during the reunification process?
Usually yes, through visitation if no restrictions are in place.
39. What if I think my child is being mistreated in foster care?
Report it immediately to social services and tell your lawyer.
40. Can I request a new caseworker?
You can request it, but approval is not guaranteed.
41. How often can I see my child during LVU care?
It depends on the visitation agreement and the child’s needs.
42. Can my child express a wish to live with me?
Yes, and their voice must be taken seriously depending on age and maturity.
43. Is confidentiality still enforced during reunification?
Yes, to protect the child’s and your privacy.
44. Can social services require drug tests?
Yes, if substance abuse is a concern.
45. What is a trial home visit?
A short-term stay at home as part of a reunification process.
46. Do I have to be a perfect parent to bring my child home?
No—but you must show that your child is safe and well cared for.
47. Can working with schools or health services help my case?
Yes, it shows you’re engaged and supportive of your child’s needs.
48. Can social services help prepare the homecoming?
Yes, through support programs or transitional services.
49. What if my child has been in care for a long time?
Long placements may complicate reunification due to attachment concerns.
50. What does “the child’s best interests” mean in reunification?
A balanced view of safety, stability, attachment, and development.
51. Can I request a family meeting or conference?
Yes, especially to involve relatives or support persons in the planning.
52. What if I disagree with social services’ recommendation?
You can challenge it in court.
53. What is a six-month review under §21 LVU?
A legal review of whether care should continue or end.
54. Can I involve support people from my network?
Yes, it strengthens your case by showing a safety net.
55. What is a closure decision?
A formal termination of LVU care.
56. How soon can my child come home after the decision?
Usually immediately, unless practical arrangements are needed.
57. Can I appeal if care is not ended?
Yes, to the administrative court.
58. What role does the Court of Appeal (Kammarrätten) play?
They handle appeals of lower court decisions.
59. Can my child be placed again after coming home?
Yes, if new risks arise.
60. How can I avoid my child being removed again?
By cooperating, maintaining stability, and using available support.
61. Can I get in-home support after reunification?
Yes, through voluntary services like counseling or parenting support.
62. How do I document improvements I’ve made?
Keep records, letters, certificates, and references.
63. Must I be completely drug-free?
Yes, active substance abuse makes reunification very difficult.
64. Can social services set conditions for reunification?
Yes, like therapy participation or supervision.
65. What happens if I don’t meet the conditions?
Reunification may be denied or delayed.
66. Does my relationship with the other parent matter?
Yes—ongoing conflict may be seen as a risk.
67. Can I get advice on custody or visitation separately?
Yes, through a family lawyer or legal aid.
68. What is a risk assessment?
An analysis by social services of whether the child would be in danger at home.
69. Can I request an outside expert for risk assessment?
You can suggest it, but it’s up to the authorities to approve.
70. Can I respond to the risk assessment?
Yes—both in writing and at the hearing.
71. Will my child attend the court hearing?
Rarely. Usually, their views are presented through social services reports.
72. Can my child’s school support my case?
Yes, the school can provide helpful testimony or reports.
73. What if I lose in the administrative court?
You can appeal to the Court of Appeal (Kammarrätten).
74. How often can I reapply for reunification?
As often as needed, but you must show new circumstances.
75. Does job training or employment help my case?
Yes, it shows stability and commitment.
76. What does “changed home circumstances” mean?
A safer, more stable living situation—possibly after separation or moving.
77. Can I get parenting help?
Yes, through courses, coaching, or social services.
78. What happens if I move to another municipality?
The case may be transferred, which could cause delays.
79. Can a new partner affect the outcome?
Yes—positively or negatively, depending on their background and influence.
80. Can my child feel homesick even if social services oppose reunification?
Yes—and this should be taken into account in the decision-making.
81. What is “reunification-focused” social work?
A child protection approach aimed at returning children to their families when possible.
82. Can I get help resolving conflict with the foster home?
Yes, through mediation or structured meetings.
83. Does my child’s age affect reunification?
Older children often have more say in the process.
84. Can I request a family group conference?
Yes—it’s a structured meeting involving relatives to find solutions.
85. What is aftercare support?
Support services after reunification to help the transition succeed.
86. How do I know if social services are following the law?
You have a right to transparency, legal support, and appeal.
87. Can I report social services to IVO?
Yes, if you believe they acted improperly.
88. What’s most important in a reunification case?
Showing that your child is safe and your home environment is stable.
89. What’s the difference between voluntary and compulsory placement?
Voluntary care is agreed upon—LVU is enforced by law.
90. What are the child’s rights in this process?
To be heard, protected, and to grow up in a safe environment.
91. Can I request an oral hearing?
Yes—and it is often beneficial to explain your case directly.
92. Can I bring witnesses to court?
Yes—especially if they can support your parenting ability.
93. How does LVU affect future custody disputes?
It can be used as evidence, particularly in long-term cases.
94. What if I don’t understand the legal process?
Ask your lawyer to explain in simple terms.
95. Can I get financial help during the process?
Your legal costs are covered; other aid depends on your situation.
96. How does mental health affect reunification?
Stability and ongoing treatment are key if mental health is an issue.
97. Can I talk to my child about reunification?
Yes—but avoid pressure or manipulation.
98. Can I use medical records or doctor’s letters as evidence?
Yes—these can support your case.
99. Do I have to agree to everything social services suggest?
No—but show alternatives and willingness to cooperate.
100. What’s the ultimate goal in reunification?
To prove that your child will be safe, supported, and loved in your care.
.
If you are involved in an LVU case, don’t face it alone.
Contact our law firm today for strong legal representation and guidance.
