You’ve made changes in your life, taken responsibility, and shown that you want to reunite with your child. But despite your efforts, Swedish social services say no to your request to end the LVU placement. What happens now? Although this may feel hopeless, you still have legal rights and options. In this article, we explain what you can do as a parent in Sweden when social services refuse reunification under LVU.
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You Have the Right to Take the Case to a Swedish Court
If social services deny your request to end the care, you have the right to request a judicial review by the Administrative Court (Förvaltningsrätten). This is done under Section 21 of the Swedish LVU Act (Lag med särskilda bestämmelser om vård av unga). You, with the help of a lawyer, can ask the court to terminate the care even if social services disagree.
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How the Swedish Process Works
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You or your lawyer submit a written motion to the administrative court.
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Swedish social services respond with reasons why they believe the care should continue.
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The court reviews the case, often holding a hearing where your lawyer presents your side.
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The court (Förvaltningsrätten) decides whether the LVU care should end or continue.
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You are entitled to a public legal counsel (offentligt biträde)—a lawyer paid by the state who represents you throughout the process.
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When Do You Have a Good Chance in Sweden?
The court will consider all aspects of your situation. Positive factors may include:
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Stable housing or employment in Sweden
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Completion of treatment programs or separation from a harmful partner
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Positive, ongoing contact with your child
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A child’s own wish to return home
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The original risk that justified the placement no longer applies
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Even if Swedish social services oppose the request, the court makes its own independent judgment.
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Mistakes to Avoid
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Being passive after rejection from social services
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Failing to present documentation or supporting evidence
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Focusing on conflict instead of your child’s best interests
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Going forward without proper legal support
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Note: A rejection from social services in Sweden is not final—you can still win your case in court.
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How to Prepare in Sweden
When filing a motion under Section 21 of the Swedish LVU Act, make sure to:
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Describe what has improved in your life since the placement
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Submit medical records, treatment certificates, and reference letters
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Explain how you now provide a safe and stable environment for your child
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Emphasize your child’s well-being, not just your rights
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Your lawyer will help you prepare and argue your case in accordance with Swedish law.
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Summary
When Swedish social services say no to reunification, the process is not over. You have the right to take the matter to a Swedish court and seek the return of your child under the LVU framework. With careful preparation, clear documentation, and legal support, you may still succeed.
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Do you need help with an LVU case in Sweden?
Contact us—we are experienced in handling Swedish child protection cases and can help you assert your rights when authorities say no.
