1. Can my child be taken into care even if I haven’t been convicted of abuse?
Yes, a child can be taken into care under LVU if there is a clear risk to their health or development – a criminal conviction is not required.
2. What are such decisions based on?
They can be based on the child’s statements, witness accounts, observations, medical records, or other indications of abuse or neglect.
3. Does it matter if I deny the abuse?
Yes, your denial can affect how child services perceive your insight and cooperation, but it doesn’t automatically mean you can’t get your child back.
4. Do I have to admit abuse to bring my child home?
No, but you must show that the child is safe and secure in your care going forward.
5. How can I prove my child is safe with me?
By cooperating with child services, attending parenting support programs, maintaining stable housing and finances, and staying engaged in the child’s life.
6. Can I get my child back if I refuse therapy?
It may be more difficult, but not impossible. Demonstrating change and stability can be achieved in other ways too.
7. How often is LVU care reviewed?
Child services must review the need for care at least every six months.
8. Can I request the care to be terminated?
Yes, you can formally request the termination of care. The social services committee must then decide on your request.
9. What if the committee refuses?
You can appeal their decision to the administrative court.
10. How important is my cooperation with child services?
Very important. Poor cooperation may be interpreted as a lack of insight or accountability.
11. Am I entitled to legal representation in an LVU case?
Yes, you are entitled to a publicly funded legal representative.
12. Do I need to prove I’m innocent?
No, but you do need to prove that the risk to your child no longer exists.
13. What does “clear risk” mean?
It refers to a serious and tangible threat to the child’s health or development.
14. What’s the difference between suspicion and proven abuse?
Suspicion is enough for child protection measures under LVU, while proof is required for criminal convictions.
15. How significant is the child’s own account?
Very significant, especially if the child’s statements are clear and consistent.
16. Can I access the case documentation?
Yes, you have the right to view all documents used in the decision-making process.
17. Can I see my child during LVU care?
Visitation is common, but it might be supervised or limited depending on the situation.
18. Can I ask for more visitation time?
Yes, you can request this from the social services committee or the court.
19. What if my child wants to come home?
The child’s wishes are considered, but they are not the only factor in the decision.
20. Is it possible to regain custody despite strong suspicion?
Yes, if you can prove that the risk has passed and the child’s needs can be met at home.
21. How long can an LVU placement last?
It depends on the case. It can range from months to years, depending on changes in the home situation.
22. Can a good relationship with my child help?
Absolutely. A positive relationship is an important factor.
23. What does “the best interests of the child” mean?
It refers to the child’s right to safety, development, and proper care.
24. How can a lawyer help me?
By reviewing the evidence, representing you in court, and submitting appeals.
25. Do I have to participate in meetings with social workers?
No, but refusal may negatively affect how your cooperation is perceived.
26. Can I refuse meetings if I feel treated unfairly?
Yes, but you should consult your legal representative first.
27. Can relatives or the other parent visit the child?
Yes, unless it’s considered harmful to the child.
28. What if I think the child is being influenced by someone else?
Tell your lawyer and request that it be investigated.
29. Can the child return home before the decision is final?
That is rare if the child is placed under LVU.
30. How can I increase my chances of reunification?
Demonstrate responsibility, stability, insight into the child’s needs, and a willingness to cooperate.
31. Can school staff testify in the case?
Yes, teachers, counselors, or other school personnel may testify about the child’s behavior and well-being.
32. Can I submit my own evidence?
Yes, you can provide documents, statements, witness testimonies, or any other material that supports your case.
33. What if my child doesn’t want to see me?
Social services may limit contact, but this may also be a result of emotional conflict, not necessarily fear or risk.
34. Can the police question my child?
Yes, if there is suspicion of a crime, police may conduct interviews with the child, typically with a support person present.
35. Can I request a new caseworker?
You can raise concerns, but it is up to social services to decide who handles the case.
36. What if the other parent is influencing the child?
Let your lawyer know so they can ask for an investigation into possible manipulation.
37. How important is stable housing?
Very important. It shows that you can provide a secure environment for your child.
38. Does my financial situation matter?
Yes, financial instability may impact assessments of your ability to care for your child.
39. Can I move to improve my situation?
Yes, but be cautious—a move can either help or harm your case depending on timing and context.
40. What is “neglect” under LVU?
It refers to failing to meet a child’s basic needs for food, safety, love, and proper care.
41. How long do I have to appeal an LVU decision?
You usually have three weeks from receiving the decision to file an appeal.
42. Which court handles the appeal?
The Administrative Court first, then potentially the Administrative Court of Appeal and the Supreme Administrative Court.
43. Can I win in court even if social services oppose me?
Yes. The court is independent and can overturn social services’ decisions.
44. Do I need a lawyer to appeal?
Not legally, but having a lawyer is strongly recommended.
45. What can I do if social services don’t respond?
Contact your lawyer and consider filing a complaint with the Parliamentary Ombudsman (JO).
46. Can I request a new LVU investigation?
You can request it, but social services decide whether it’s justified.
47. What does “reunification” mean?
It means the child returns home after LVU care is terminated.
48. Can the child express their wishes?
Yes, especially if the child is over 12. Their voice carries more weight as they grow older.
49. Do younger children have a say?
Yes, based on their maturity and ability to express their views.
50. Can I get compensation if the LVU was wrong?
Yes, in rare cases, the government may be liable under Swedish tort law.
51. How can I show my child is thriving with me?
With proof like photos, positive school reports, stable routines, and healthy development.
52. What if the child wants to live with both parents?
Joint care or custody changes might be considered depending on the circumstances.
53. Can I record conversations with social workers?
Yes, as long as you are part of the conversation, Swedish law allows it.
54. What is an “implementation plan”?
It’s a plan that outlines the child’s care, contact arrangements, and steps toward reunification.
55. What if the plan isn’t followed?
You can raise the issue with social services or in court through your lawyer.
56. Can another adult, like a new partner, affect the case?
Yes, especially if they live with you or have influence on the child’s home environment.
57. Can siblings have contact?
Yes, sibling relationships are considered important and are usually supported.
58. Can the child stay with relatives instead of a foster home?
Yes, this is called a kinship placement and is often preferred if possible.
59. What’s the difference between voluntary care and LVU?
Voluntary care requires parental consent; LVU is enforced against the parents’ will.
60. Can I suggest voluntary care as an alternative?
Yes, especially to show cooperation and reduce conflict during the process.
61. Should I attend parenting support groups?
Yes, it can show your willingness to change and support your child’s needs.
62. What does the social services committee do during LVU care?
They monitor the situation, support the family, and review whether care is still necessary.
63. Can LVU apply to both parents?
Yes, if both are considered risks to the child.
64. Can I influence what school my child attends during LVU?
Sometimes, but it is often decided by the foster family and social services.
65. What is a “child interview”?
It’s when a child is interviewed to express their experiences and views before decisions are made.
66. How long does it take to end LVU care?
It varies greatly—from months to years—depending on the parent’s situation and progress.
67. Can I request a home visit by social workers?
Yes, and this can help prove that your home is safe and suitable.
68. What happens if I relapse into past problems?
LVU care can be re-imposed if a new risk arises.
69. Can I move to a new municipality to get new social workers?
Yes, but your previous municipality may retain responsibility for some time.
70. Can my child appeal the LVU decision?
Children over 15 can appeal decisions affecting them under LVU.
71. Can I request an independent expert review?
Yes, you can ask the court to appoint a neutral psychologist or expert.
72. What does a foster home do?
They provide temporary care and stability for the child during the LVU period.
73. How does a police investigation affect the LVU case?
It can provide evidence for the LVU case, but it’s a separate legal process.
74. How long does an LVU judgment stay in effect?
It remains until the court or social services terminate the care, with reviews every six months.
75. Does the child’s age affect the outcome?
Yes, older children’s opinions are taken more seriously and their needs differ.
76. What is “insight into the problem”?
It means understanding how your actions or environment may have harmed the child.
77. How can I show insight without admitting guilt?
By acknowledging the child’s experience and focusing on how to meet their needs safely now.
78. What if I receive new information during the case?
Tell your lawyer—it may be used in appeals or new hearings.
79. Can I get help from other professionals?
Yes, such as therapists, counselors, or legal advisors.
80. Can a court decision be changed later?
Yes, if new evidence or circumstances arise.
81. What if I feel I’ve been treated unfairly?
Talk to your lawyer. You may also file complaints to the Health and Social Care Inspectorate (IVO) or JO.
82. How does a history of substance abuse or crime affect LVU?
It can count against you, but documented recovery and a stable life can counterbalance that.
83. What if I have a mental health diagnosis?
Mental health alone isn’t disqualifying, but your condition’s impact on parenting is what matters.
84. How important is a support network?
Very—having friends, family, or professionals helping you strengthens your case.
85. Can I ask that my child be placed with family instead of strangers?
Yes, kinship care is often preferred and may help with eventual reunification.
86. What if I have another child during the LVU period?
Social services may assess that child’s situation separately.
87. Can my child ask to come home?
Yes, especially if over 15—but the final decision still lies with authorities.
88. What is “risk of relapse”?
It refers to the concern that harmful behavior may return in the future.
89. How does my attitude toward social workers affect things?
A hostile or uncooperative attitude can hurt your case—constructive communication helps.
90. What is “placement risk”?
The risk that the child might need to be moved again due to problems in the foster home.
91. Can I meet my child in a neutral place?
Yes, visits in supervised or neutral settings are common.
92. Why is stability so important for the child?
Children need continuity and predictability to feel safe and develop well.
93. Will my past always be held against me?
Past issues matter, but change and progress can outweigh them if clearly demonstrated.
94. Do I have to sign any documents?
No, you are not required to consent to LVU or other measures taken against your will.
95. What does “termination of care” mean?
It means social services or the court ends the child’s placement and LVU care.
96. Can social services refuse to terminate care without court?
Yes, but you can appeal their decision.
97. How can I know what’s best for my child?
It often requires reflection, professional input, and careful attention to the child’s needs.
98. Can I get support even after my child comes home?
Yes, post-care services are often available to support reintegration.
99. Is it common to get your child back after LVU?
Yes, many parents succeed, especially if they show improvement and cooperation.
100. What’s the most important thing I can do right now?
Get legal help, cooperate where possible, and focus on building a safe, supportive environment for your child.
