Your Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re involved in a custody dispute in Sweden, you may be invited to attend something called a “muntlig förberedelse” (MUF) – a type of preliminary hearing in family court. But what exactly does a MUF involve? How should you prepare? And what kind of outcome can you expect?
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This guide explains everything you need to know about a MUF in a Swedish custody case, from what types of questions may be asked to how you should present yourself in court.
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1. What Is a MUF (Muntlig Förberedelse)?
A MUF is a preliminary court hearing held in the District Court (“tingsrätten”) where both parents – and their legal representatives (“ombud”) – meet to discuss the case. The purpose is to try to reach a voluntary agreement on custody, residence, or visitation before proceeding to a full trial (“huvudförhandling”).
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The hearing is led by a judge, and it may help resolve the case faster and more affordably. If an agreement is reached during the MUF, the judge can confirm it as a legally binding court decision (“dom”).
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2. Will the Judge and Lawyers Ask Questions?
Yes. Both the parents’ representatives (“ombud”) and the judge will ask questions during the MUF.
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The lawyers typically ask questions to clarify their client’s position, highlight important issues (like the child’s living situation or parental cooperation), and preview evidence that supports their side.
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The judge may also ask questions to ensure all important topics are covered and to assess whether a settlement is possible without proceeding to trial.
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3. Are You Required to Present Evidence?
During the MUF, not all evidence is formally presented. Instead, the parties usually outline what types of evidence they plan to use if the case continues to a full trial. Examples include:
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Prior court rulings
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Reports from social services (“socialtjänsten”)
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Medical or psychological evaluations
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Your legal representative should prepare a clear summary of the evidence and may discuss with the judge whether additional information is needed for a future hearing.
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4. How Long Does a MUF Take?
The duration of a MUF varies depending on the complexity of the case, but it generally lasts between 1 to 3 hours. If the parties are close to an agreement, the judge may allow extra time to finalize it during the session.
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If it becomes clear that no agreement can be reached, the judge will typically schedule the next step in the legal process — usually a main hearing (“huvudförhandling”).
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5. Can a Temporary Decision Be Made?
Yes. If there is an urgent need to establish a temporary arrangement for custody, residence, or visitation, the judge can issue an interim decision (“interimistiskt beslut”) either during or shortly after the MUF.
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These decisions are not permanent, but they remain in force until a final ruling is made. Interim decisions are common when a child’s living situation needs to be stabilized quickly.
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6. What Should You Wear to a MUF?
Although a MUF is not a full trial, it is still a formal court proceeding. Your appearance matters. While it won’t determine the outcome of the case, it does contribute to the first impression you make.
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Dress in a neat, business-like, or smart-casual manner
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Avoid wearing sportswear, ripped clothing, or outfits with strong messages or slogans
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Dressing respectfully shows that you take the hearing seriously, and it can influence how you are perceived by the judge and the other party.
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Summary
A MUF (muntlig förberedelse) is a key part of Swedish custody proceedings. It gives parents a chance to clarify their positions, explore a possible settlement, and avoid a lengthy trial. During the MUF:
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Lawyers and the judge ask questions to understand the situation
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Evidence is discussed at an overview level
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The session typically lasts 1–3 hours
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The court may issue a temporary (interim) ruling if needed
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As a parent, it’s also important to prepare properly and present yourself professionally, as this can impact how your credibility is viewed.
