Do you need help in an LVU case?
LVU, or the Care of Young Persons (Special Provisions) Act, is a Swedish law designed to protect children and young people under the age of 18 who are at risk and in need of help. The law can apply if the child is living in an environment harmful to their health or development, such as in LVU cases where parents abuse substances, suffer from mental illness, or expose the child to violence and/or neglect.
Social services can only initiate an LVU placement when other interventions are insufficient or when parents refuse to agree to necessary care. Additionally, LVU can apply if the child themselves engages in destructive behaviors that jeopardize their health or development, such as substance abuse or criminal activities, and refuses voluntary help. In such cases, social services can request involuntary care under LVU.
The process in an LVU case
Report and investigation
When social services are informed that a child is at risk, they begin an investigation. This involves gathering information from schools, healthcare providers, and others who may have important insights about the child’s situation.
Decision regarding care
If social services conclude that the child requires involuntary care, they file an application with the administrative court (förvaltningsrätten). The court decides on the LVU case and placement after considering the perspectives of both the child and the parents.
Appeal
Both the child and the parents have the right to appeal the court’s decision. Appeals can be made to the Administrative Court of Appeal (kammarrätten) and, ultimately, to the Supreme Administrative Court (Högsta förvaltningsdomstolen).
What we help with in LVU cases
Legal advice
We help you understand the rights of the child and parents under LVU. We also provide guidance on how to proceed if social services initiate an investigation.
Legal representation
We represent you in your LVU case in the administrative court and during any appeals, ensuring that your rights are upheld and that you receive a fair assessment.
Support throughout the process
We stand by your side throughout the entire process, from initial contact with social services to court hearings. We assist you in navigating the system and provide the support you need.
Get legal help today
Do you need help with an LVU matter? You can always get in contact with our lawyers within just 24 hours when you need quick answers to your questions. Or you can email or call us whenever you need to hire a lawyer for legal assistance.
FAQ about LVU
What is LVU?
LVU (Care of Young Persons (Special Provisions) Act) is a Swedish law that protects children and young people who are at risk and require care when regular interventions aren’t enough.
When can LVU be applied?
LVU can be applied to cases when a child lives in a harmful environment or exhibits dangerous behaviors that threaten their health or development.
How does the process work?
Social services initiate an investigation and file a care application with the administrative court. If the court decides the child needs care under LVU, both the child and parents can appeal the decision if they believe it’s incorrect.