Existing user? Sign in
Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Elder abuse covers physical, psychological, sexual and financial abuse, neglect, and violations of an older person's legal or human rights. In Solna - as elsewhere in Sweden - responses to elder abuse draw on a mix of criminal law, social law and health-care regulation. Criminal offences such as assault, sexual crimes, theft, fraud and breach of trust can be pursued by the police under the Penal Code. The municipality through social services has a statutory duty to assess and act when an older person is at risk or in need, under the Social Services Act. Health-care providers must follow rules on safe and dignified care, supervised by the national regulator. If you suspect elder abuse in Solna, both the police and Solna social services have roles to investigate and protect the person affected.
A lawyer can help in many elder-abuse situations where legal knowledge or representation is needed. Common reasons to seek a lawyer include:
- Reporting and pursuing criminal charges when abuse, assault, theft or fraud has occurred.
- Bringing civil claims for damages, loss of assets or breach of contract.
- Challenging municipal decisions about care, placement or guardianship - for example appealing social services decisions.
- Investigating and acting on misuse of a power of attorney, a "god man" or a legally appointed guardian, including removal or claims for financial restitution.
- Advising on restraining orders - called contact bans - and representing a victim in court.
- Working with authorities when abuse involves a care home or health-care provider - including complaints to the Health and Social Care Inspectorate.
- Guiding family members through safeguarding steps while protecting the elder person's legal rights and autonomy.
Key legal frameworks and local responsibilities relevant in Solna include:
- Penal law - The Swedish Penal Code regulates crimes such as assault, sexual offences, theft, fraud, embezzlement and breach of trust. Criminal acts against older people are prosecuted by the police and public prosecutor.
- Social Services Act - Solna kommun is responsible for social services. The municipality must investigate reports of abuse, provide immediate protection and long-term support, and can arrange for social care, home help or alternative housing when necessary.
- Health-care regulation - Care providers and staff must follow rules ensuring patient safety and dignity. The Health and Social Care Inspectorate supervises and can investigate care providers and issue sanctions.
- Guardianship and representation - Sweden uses systems such as power of attorney, "god man" (legal support person) and "förvaltare" (more restricted financial manager). The municipality's supervisory authority oversees appointed guardians and may initiate action if a guardian abuses their role.
- Victim support and compensation - Victims of crime can receive support from victim-support organizations and may claim damages either from the perpetrator or, in some cases, state compensation if a perpetrator cannot be held accountable financially.
Elder abuse can be criminal acts such as assault, sexual violation, theft, fraud or breach of trust, and non-criminal acts such as neglect, poor care or violations of dignity. Whether an act is a crime depends on its nature and severity, but social services and health regulators may act even when criminal charges are not brought.
If someone is in immediate danger call the police. For non-urgent matters you can report to Solna social services so they can assess risk and offer protection. You can also file a police report for criminal matters and complain to the Health and Social Care Inspectorate if the abuse involves health or care services.
Social services must investigate and assess the person's needs and risks. They may offer emergency measures, arrange safer housing or increased home care, refer to medical services, involve family and request cooperation with the police. Their aim is protection and appropriate support while respecting the person's autonomy.
Yes. If the abuse is criminal you can seek damages from the perpetrator in civil court. If the perpetrator cannot pay or a conviction is not possible, there may be possibilities for state compensation for victims of crime. A lawyer can advise on the best path to claim compensation and help prepare evidence.
A "god man" is a person appointed to help someone manage affairs without taking away legal capacity. If a "god man" abuses their position - for example by stealing money or acting against the person's interests - Solna's supervisory authority can investigate, remove the "god man" and the police can pursue criminal charges such as fraud or breach of trust.
Concerns about a guardian or "god man" should be raised with the municipal supervisory authority responsible for guardianship matters. If there is misconduct, the authority can apply to the court to remove or replace the guardian. A lawyer can help gather evidence and represent the person in court.
Yes. The police or the court can seek a contact ban - called a contactförbud - against a person who threatens, harasses or abuses another. A lawyer can assist in applying for such protective measures and can represent the victim in any subsequent proceedings.
Yes. Report concerns to the nursing home management, Solna social services and to the Health and Social Care Inspectorate. If you suspect a crime, also report to the police. Keep records of incidents, dates, staff involved and any medical notes to support investigations.
Useful evidence includes medical records, photographs of injuries, bank statements showing unexplained transactions, witness statements, care logs, emails or messages, and formal complaints already made to care providers or the municipality. Preserve documents and dates, and take notes as soon as possible.
Legal aid - called rättshjälp - may be available depending on income, assets and the legal matter. Some organizations offer free initial advice for victims, and victim-support groups can help with practical support. The Swedish Bar Association provides listings of qualified lawyers. Ask about costs and whether a lawyer handles elder-abuse cases before engaging them.
Helpful local and national bodies to contact or consult when dealing with elder abuse in Solna include:
- Solna kommun - social services and the municipal guardianship supervisory authority.
- Polisen - the local police for crimes and emergency protection.
- Inspektionen för vård och omsorg - the Health and Social Care Inspectorate that supervises care providers and handles complaints about care.
- Socialstyrelsen - the National Board of Health and Welfare, which issues guidance on elder care and protection.
- Brottsofferjouren - victim support organizations offering practical and emotional support to crime victims.
- Swedish Bar Association - for finding a specialist lawyer in elder law or criminal law.
- Local elder advice centres or municipal elder representatives who can provide guidance on rights and local services.
If you suspect elder abuse, follow these practical steps:
- Ensure immediate safety - if there is an immediate threat or a crime in progress call the police without delay.
- Get medical attention if needed and document injuries or neglect.
- Report the situation to Solna social services so they can assess and arrange protection or support.
- Preserve evidence - keep records, bank statements, messages, photos and witness names and contact details.
- Consider legal advice - contact a lawyer experienced in elder abuse, social law or criminal law. Ask about legal aid and costs up front.
- Make formal complaints to the care provider and to the Health and Social Care Inspectorate if care standards are involved.
- Use victim support services for advice and practical help while legal and administrative processes proceed.
Taking prompt, documented steps helps protect the older person and strengthens any legal case. A lawyer can guide you through reporting, investigation, possible criminal charges, civil claims and appeals against municipal decisions.
