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Free Guide to Hiring a Family Lawyer
Domestic violence in Östersund is addressed under Swedish national law and local public services are responsible for responding, supporting victims, and coordinating protection. Crimes such as assault, threats, sexual offences, stalking and harassment are prosecuted by the state regardless of the victim's wishes. Local authorities in Östersund - including the police, municipal social services and regional health care - work together to offer emergency help, shelters and long-term support for people affected by domestic violence.
You may need a lawyer if you are a victim seeking criminal justice, a survivor facing family law questions, or someone accused of domestic violence. Common situations where legal help is useful include filing a police report and following the prosecution process, applying for or enforcing a contact ban, seeking custody or visitation changes where there are safety concerns, getting a restraining or eviction order, claiming compensation for injuries or losses, and dealing with immigration, housing or employment consequences that stem from the violence. A lawyer can explain your rights, represent you in court, help collect and preserve evidence, and advise on legal aid options if you cannot afford private counsel.
Swedish criminal law covers physical assault, sexual offences, unlawful threats and stalking. Domestic violence is treated as criminal conduct even when it occurs inside a family or intimate relationship. There are specific protective measures that can be taken - for example, prosecutors and courts can impose a contact ban against a suspect, and violation of that ban is itself a crime. Police can take immediate measures if you are in danger, including arrest or temporary removal of the aggressor in some situations. In family law matters, the courts prioritise the child's best interests if there are custody or visitation disputes and may order supervised contact or limit contact when safety is a concern. Civil law remedies can include claims for damages and orders relating to property and housing. Municipal social services have duties to assess risks, offer protection plans and arrange shelter when needed.
If you are in immediate danger call emergency services - dial 112. If not an emergency you can contact the local police station to make a report. The police will take your statement, advise on immediate protection options and begin any necessary criminal investigation.
A contact ban is a legal order that prohibits an identified person from contacting or approaching you. It can be issued by prosecutors or by a court as part of criminal proceedings. Notify the police that you want a contact ban and provide details about the person and any incidents. Breach of a contact ban is a criminal offence.
Police can take immediate action in dangerous situations and, depending on the circumstances, the aggressor may be arrested or removed. In civil matters the court can grant orders that affect residence and possession of housing. Municipal social services and the police can advise on options to increase your safety at home or arrange alternative accommodation.
In Sweden criminal cases are prosecuted by the state. Even if a victim wishes to withdraw their complaint, prosecutors may decide to continue if there is sufficient evidence. The police and prosecutors will explain the process and the victim can be treated as a civil party to claim damages.
Keep medical records and photographs of injuries, save text messages, emails and call logs, note dates, times and witnesses, and preserve damaged clothing or objects. Make a written timeline of incidents. Report to the police as soon as possible so evidence can be documented officially.
Yes. Municipal social services and local non-governmental organisations operate shelters and support housing for victims of domestic violence. If you need immediate shelter, contact the police or social services and they will help arrange safe accommodation and support services.
If there are allegations of violence the family court will prioritise the child's safety and welfare. Courts can restrict or supervise contact, change custody arrangements, or grant temporary orders to protect children. Consult a lawyer and social services if children are involved so risk assessments and safety measures can be implemented.
Legal aid - known as rättshjälp - may be available depending on your financial situation and the type of case. You can also discuss payment arrangements with a lawyer or seek information from municipal social services about support. A lawyer or a victim support organisation can help you apply for legal aid if you are eligible.
Support includes medical care, counselling, psychological support, social services risk assessments and safety planning, shelters, and non-governmental victim support organisations. These services can help with immediate safety, long-term recovery and practical needs such as housing and finances.
Look for lawyers who specialise in criminal law or family law and who have experience with domestic violence matters. Contact the local bar association or use municipal guidance services to find listings. Ask potential lawyers about their experience with domestic violence cases, approach to victims, fees and availability of legal aid.
Polisen - the local police station in Östersund handles emergency response and investigations into crimes. Contact them for immediate danger, to file a report or to ask about protection orders.
Socialtjänsten in Östersund municipality - municipal social services provide risk assessments, shelter placement, family support and long-term safety planning for victims and children.
Region Jämtland Härjedalen health services - local health care providers can provide medical treatment, documentation of injuries and referrals to counselling and psychiatric care.
Brottsofferjouren - victim support organisations offer emotional support, practical advice and assistance with navigating the criminal justice system. Local chapters can provide confidential support and accompany victims to police interviews or court.
Kvinnojourer and shelters - local women s shelters and domestic violence support groups provide emergency accommodation, counselling and practical help. Municipal social services can connect you to local shelters.
Kvinnofridslinjen and national helplines - national support lines and organisations can offer advice, anonymous counselling and referrals to local services across Sweden.
Åklagarmyndigheten and local prosecutors - prosecutors decide on charges and can explain the criminal process, victim rights and the possibility of participation as a civil party in a criminal case.
If you are in immediate danger - call 112 now. If you are not in immediate danger, consider these steps - seek medical attention for injuries and ask for documentation; contact the police to file a report; reach out to Östersund social services for safety planning and shelter options; contact a victim support organisation for emotional and practical help; consult a lawyer experienced in domestic violence for legal advice about criminal and family law options and about legal aid; preserve any evidence and record incidents in writing; and make a safety plan for you and any children involved, including safe places to go and trusted contacts.
Every situation is different. Use local authorities and victim support services to help you assess risk and choose the safest, most effective legal steps. If you need legal representation ask about experience with domestic violence cases, confidentiality practices and whether legal aid may apply to your situation.
