– What Are Your Rights and How Can a Victim’s Counsel Help?
Being the victim of a crime can leave deep emotional scars. Some people develop Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as a direct result of what they’ve experienced. But can you receive financial compensation for PTSD in Sweden? And what role does a victim’s counsel (målsägandebiträde) or lawyer play in the process?
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In this article, we explain your rights under Swedish law and how to protect them.
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Can I Get Compensation for PTSD After a Crime in Sweden?
Yes. If you have developed PTSD as a result of a crime, you may be entitled to damages (skadestånd) under Swedish law. To qualify, you must be able to show:
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That you were the victim of a crime
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That your PTSD is a direct result of the crime
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That your psychological injury is documented (e.g., medical or psychological reports)
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You may be entitled to compensation for:
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Pain and suffering
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Mental distress
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Loss of income
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Medical and treatment costs
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What Counts as PTSD in Legal Terms?
PTSD is a recognized psychiatric diagnosis, typically confirmed by a psychologist or psychiatrist. Common symptoms include:
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Flashbacks or nightmares
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Avoidance of people, places, or activities
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Ongoing anxiety, panic, or fear
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Difficulty functioning in daily life
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To receive compensation, the PTSD must be clearly linked to the trauma caused by the crime.
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What Is a Victim’s Counsel (Målsägandebiträde) in Sweden?
If you’ve been the victim of a serious crime in Sweden, you may be entitled to a victim’s counsel – a lawyer assigned by the court to represent and support you throughout the legal process. This service is free of charge.
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Your victim’s counsel can:
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Represent you in court
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Assist with your claim for damages
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Prepare you for hearings and trials
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Help you assert your rights and remain emotionally supported
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You can request a specific lawyer if you wish, and the court will often approve it.
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How Much Compensation Can I Get for PTSD?
The amount depends on the severity and circumstances of your case. For example:
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Mental suffering may lead to awards of SEK 5,000 – 75,000
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More severe, long-term PTSD may result in higher amounts
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Additional compensation may be awarded for lost earnings and therapy costs
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The offender may be ordered to pay damages directly, but if they are unknown or unable to pay, Swedish Crime Victim Compensation (Brottsoffermyndigheten) can step in.
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What Can a Lawyer Do for Me?
An experienced crime victim lawyer in Sweden can:
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Maximize your chances of receiving full compensation
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Help you understand your rights and navigate the legal system
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Communicate with police, prosecutors, and the court on your behalf
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Provide emotional and strategic support throughout the process
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If you suspect you may be suffering from PTSD, ask for a victim’s counsel as early as possible in the investigation.
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Summary
If you develop PTSD after being the victim of a crime in Sweden, you may be entitled to significant financial compensation. To strengthen your case, ensure that your injury is properly documented and request a victim’s counsel early on. A knowledgeable Swedish lawyer can make a major difference—both legally and emotionally.
