If you are involved in an LVU case, don’t face it alone.
Contact our law firm today for strong legal representation and guidance.
1. What is LVU?
LVU stands for the Swedish “Care of Young Persons (Special Provisions) Act” (Lag med särskilda bestämmelser om vård av unga).
2. When can LVU be used?
When a child is deemed to be at serious risk and voluntary interventions are not sufficient.
3. What is considered “domestic violence”?
It includes physical, psychological, emotional, or verbal abuse, and even threatening or controlling behavior.
4. Does the child have to be the direct victim?
No, witnessing violence can be enough.
5. Can one single incident lead to LVU?
Yes, if the incident is serious enough.
6. Who can report concerns to social services?
Schools, healthcare workers, the police, or private individuals.
7. Must social services investigate all reports?
Yes, they are legally required to assess every report.
8. What happens in an LVU investigation?
Social services gather information from the child, parents, school, and others.
9. Do I get to tell my side of the story?
Yes, you have the right to be heard.
10. Can my child be removed without my consent?
Yes, in urgent situations.
11. What is an emergency care order?
It allows immediate removal of a child if the risk is acute.
12. How fast does the court review such a decision?
Within four working days.
13. Which court handles LVU cases?
The administrative court (förvaltningsrätten).
14. Do I get a lawyer?
Yes, a public legal counsel (offentligt biträde) is appointed at no cost to you.
15. What does the lawyer do?
They represent you, challenge the evidence, and argue your case.
16. Can I choose my lawyer?
Yes, if you make the request early.
17. Can I see what’s in the investigation?
Yes, you have the right to access the case documents.
18. Can I suggest people for social services to talk to?
Yes, but they decide who they contact.
19. What is classified as abuse?
Physical, emotional, financial, or sexual abuse, including threats and intimidation.
20. Is it enough that I was just angry?
In some cases, yes—especially if the environment was perceived as unsafe.
21. Can past events be used against me?
Yes, particularly if they show a pattern.
22. How can I defend myself?
By presenting your own evidence and witness statements.
23. Can I see what my child has said?
Usually, but some parts may be restricted.
24. Does my child’s opinion decide the case?
The child’s views are important but not the only factor.
25. What if the other parent is lying about me?
Social services must investigate all sides impartially.
26. Can I record conversations with social workers?
Yes, if you are part of the conversation.
27. Will I be allowed to see my child during the investigation?
Not always—it depends on the situation.
28. What if I’m denied visitation?
Your lawyer can appeal or request a court review.
29. What does “lack of care” mean?
It refers to not meeting the child’s basic needs.
30. What is a “clear and present risk”?
A real and concrete danger to the child—not just theoretical.
31. How long can LVU care last?
As long as the risk exists, but it must be reviewed regularly.
32. Can I ask to end the care?
Yes, by filing a motion with the court.
33. How often is LVU reviewed?
At least every six months.
34. What happens if I cooperate with social services?
It may show willingness to change and help end the care sooner.
35. What if I refuse to cooperate?
It may be seen as resistance and work against you.
36. Can I be forced into therapy or treatment?
No, but refusal can impact the outcome.
37. Will therapy help get my child back?
It may, especially if it addresses the concerns raised.
38. What is a foster home?
A family that temporarily takes care of your child.
39. Can my child be placed with relatives?
Yes, if they’re deemed suitable.
40. Will I know where my child is?
Not always—if there are safety concerns.
41. Can I appeal the LVU decision?
Yes, to the Administrative Court of Appeal (kammarrätten).
42. How long do I have to appeal?
Three weeks from receiving the decision.
43. What does it take to win in court?
You must show that the risk to your child no longer exists.
44. Can the court reject the social services’ request?
Yes, if the legal criteria aren’t met.
45. Is LVU often used in family conflicts?
Sometimes, especially when there are domestic issues.
46. What if I’m acquitted in criminal court?
It may help, but LVU is judged independently.
47. What if I’m convicted?
It could strengthen the case for continued care.
48. Can I get help with therapy or parenting support?
Yes, through social services or voluntary programs.
49. Do I have to admit guilt to get my child back?
No, but being open to change helps.
50. Can I switch lawyers?
Yes, if you have good reason.
51. What if I believe the social workers are biased?
Tell your lawyer and document everything carefully.
52. Can I report a social worker?
Yes, to the Health and Social Care Inspectorate (IVO).
53. Can I sue social services?
You may file a claim, but compensation is rare and requires clear legal errors.
54. What is the difference between voluntary care and LVU?
Voluntary care is based on your agreement. LVU is enforced without consent.
55. Can I ask for voluntary help instead of LVU?
Yes, and social services must consider it first if it’s a viable option.
56. What is a care plan (vårdplan)?
A written plan outlining how your child will be supported during care.
57. Can I give input on the care plan?
Yes, you should be invited to participate.
58. What is a contact plan or visitation agreement?
It regulates how and when you can have contact with your child.
59. Can my visitation be supervised?
Yes, if it’s considered necessary for the child’s safety.
60. Can I call or write to my child?
Only if permitted by social services or the court.
61. What happens if I break the visitation rules?
It could damage your credibility and future contact rights.
62. Can all contact be denied?
Yes, through a formal decision that you can appeal.
63. Can I appeal contact restrictions?
Yes, through the administrative court.
64. How does LVU affect my long-term parenting rights?
It can influence future custody or visitation decisions.
65. Can I lose custody permanently due to LVU?
No, but LVU can be used as evidence in a custody dispute.
66. What is long-term placement?
When a child remains in care for more than a year.
67. What is a foster care assessment?
An investigation into whether a foster family is suitable.
68. Will I be informed about my child’s well-being?
To some extent, unless there’s a risk in sharing details.
69. Can I suggest someone to care for my child?
Yes, for example a relative or close friend.
70. What is home-based LVU care?
The child remains at home but under strict supervision.
71. What if my child refuses to come home?
The child’s opinion matters but is not the only factor.
72. Can I still make legal decisions for my child?
Some rights transfer to social services during LVU.
73. Can I choose my child’s school during care?
Only if allowed by social services.
74. Can my child receive therapy while in care?
Yes, if needed.
75. Can I be drug tested?
Yes, if drug use is a concern.
76. Can I refuse home visits?
Yes, but it may be seen as a lack of cooperation.
77. Can I submit my own evidence?
Yes, through your lawyer.
78. Can I record visitation as proof?
No, not without consent or legal approval.
79. How long does an LVU case take?
It can range from weeks to many months.
80. Can the LVU be ended quickly?
Yes, if the risk is gone and conditions are safe.
81. Can I see my child in a neutral location?
Yes, such as a social services office.
82. What does “the child’s best interests” mean?
It means protecting the child’s well-being and development above all else.
83. Can my child testify in court?
Rarely. Usually, their views are presented through interviews.
84. Who decides when care should end?
Social services can propose it, or you can request it through court.
85. Can I ask for a new investigation?
Yes, especially if your circumstances change.
86. Does cooperating with other authorities help?
Yes, it shows responsibility.
87. What if I feel humiliated by the process?
Speak to your lawyer and document mistreatment.
88. Can I get compensation for wrongful LVU?
Yes, in theory, but it’s difficult and rare.
89. Can I refuse to participate at all?
Yes, but it can harm your case.
90. Will I get an interpreter?
Yes, if you need one.
91. What is confidentiality in LVU cases?
It protects your and your child’s private information.
92. Can LVU be misused in a custody dispute?
It can happen, but social services must stay neutral.
93. Can the court reject the LVU application?
Yes, if legal requirements aren’t met.
94. What happens when care ends?
Your child returns home, and social services may continue follow-up.
95. Can I get help with reunification?
Yes, through planned support measures.
96. What is a child welfare investigation?
A social services investigation that can lead to or avoid LVU.
97. What if I feel isolated in the process?
Rely on your lawyer and support networks.
98. Will I be told if my child is unhappy in care?
In serious cases, yes.
99. Can I suggest changes to the care plan?
Yes, through your legal counsel.
100. What is the most important thing to remember as an accused parent?
Act quickly, work with a skilled lawyer, and stay focused on your child’s best interests.
Final Thoughts
Facing an LVU case due to alleged domestic violence in Sweden is overwhelming, especially when you feel misunderstood or falsely accused. But you are not powerless. The law gives you the right to be heard, to challenge the evidence, and to fight for your relationship with your child. By acting quickly, documenting your side of the story, and working closely with an experienced LVU lawyer, you can make a real difference in the outcome.
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If you are involved in an LVU case, don’t face it alone.
Contact our law firm today for strong legal representation and guidance. We have extensive experience in helping parents navigate the Swedish child protection system—and we are here to stand by your side.
