Best Juvenile Law Lawyers in Borås

About Juvenile Law in Borås, Sweden

Juvenile Law in Borås, as in the rest of Sweden, covers legal matters concerning minors—children and young people typically under the age of 18. This field of law includes issues such as child welfare, criminal proceedings involving juveniles, custody and visitation rights, and social services’ interventions to protect children’s wellbeing. Swedish juvenile justice and protection laws are rooted in principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), prioritizing the best interests of the child, their development, and their right to have their voice heard in legal matters affecting them.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations in Borås where seeking legal advice or representation in Juvenile Law is important:

• A child or adolescent is accused of a crime and must face the juvenile justice system.
• Social services (Socialtjänsten) steps in due to concerns about a child's living environment or wellbeing.
• Parents or guardians are involved in disputes over child custody, visitation (umgänge), or child support.
• There are allegations of abuse or neglect, and authorities are considering protective measures like taking a child into care (LVU).
• A young person needs support navigating rights regarding education, healthcare, or immigration issues.
• Children are involved in family law disputes caused by parental separation, divorce, or domestic violence.

Local Laws Overview

Borås, like the rest of Sweden, applies national statutes relevant to Juvenile Law. Some of the most significant pieces of legislation include:

• Social Services Act (Socialtjänstlagen, SoL): Guides interventions to support children and families, focusing on voluntary measures.
• Care of Young Persons Act (LVU): Allows authorities to act against parents’ wishes if a child is in serious danger, permitting forced interventions to ensure the child’s safety.
• Parental Code (Föräldrabalken): Governs custody, parental responsibility, child maintenance, and visitation agreements.
• The Penal Code (Brottsbalken): Contains special provisions for the investigation and sentencing of crimes committed by people under 21, with additional safeguards for those under 18.
• International conventions: Especially the Convention on the Rights of the Child, incorporated into Swedish law, underpins the legal framework for juvenile protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the age of criminal responsibility in Sweden?

The age of criminal responsibility in Sweden is 15. Children younger than this cannot be prosecuted for crimes, and any offenses committed by them are handled by social services, not the justice system.

What happens if my child is suspected of a crime?

If a child under 18 is suspected of a crime, the police and social services will usually both be involved. The child will have the right to legal representation and, under certain circumstances, a parent or guardian must be present during questioning. If under 15, the matter is entirely handled by social services.

Can social services remove a child from their home?

Yes, under the LVU (Care of Young Persons Act), social services can ask the court for permission to place a child in care outside their home if they are at serious risk due to neglect, abuse, criminal activities, or substance abuse.

How are custody disputes resolved in Borås?

Custody disputes usually begin with efforts at family mediation offered by social services. If agreement cannot be reached, the matter is taken to the district court, which will make a decision prioritizing the child’s best interests.

Will my child get a lawyer during legal proceedings?

If a child is involved in legal proceedings—either in criminal cases or certain civil matters—they have the right to be represented by a court-appointed lawyer (public defender or counsel for the child).

Can a child have a say in legal proceedings about their care or custody?

Yes, children in Sweden have the right to be heard in legal proceedings affecting them, taking into account their age and maturity. Their views are often gathered by social services or the court.

What support is available for children facing family problems?

Social services in Borås can offer counseling, mediation, financial support, and practical assistance. They also coordinate with schools and healthcare providers for comprehensive help.

How does Swedish law protect children from violence and abuse?

All forms of violence against children are prohibited by Swedish law. Authorities must investigate allegations and may intervene immediately to protect the child, including by arranging temporary placements.

What is mediation, and is it required?

Mediation (familjerådgivning or samarbetssamtal) is a voluntary process offered by social services to help parents resolve custody and visitation disputes. Courts may require parents to attempt mediation before proceeding with litigation.

How can I contact social services or get emergency help in Borås?

You can contact Borås Social Services via their main office during office hours. For urgent situations involving a child’s safety outside office hours, you can contact the social emergency service (socialjouren) or the police (112 in emergencies).

Additional Resources

If you need more information or support regarding Juvenile Law in Borås, consider these resources:

• Borås Social Services (Socialtjänsten): Provides support, mediation, and child protection services.
• Borås District Court (Borås tingsrätt): Handles legal cases involving children and families.
• Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare (Socialstyrelsen): Offers guidance and information on child protection and family law.
• Bris (Children’s Rights in Society): A non-profit organization supporting children and young people—offers a helpline and advice.
• Advokatsamfundet (Swedish Bar Association): Maintains a register of qualified lawyers specializing in family and juvenile law.
• The Ombudsman for Children (Barnombudsmannen): Government agency focusing on children's rights in Sweden.

Next Steps

If you or your child need legal advice or assistance in Juvenile Law in Borås:

• Contact Borås Social Services for initial support or to report concerns about a child’s wellbeing.
• Consult with a specialized juvenile or family lawyer for personalized legal advice. The Swedish Bar Association’s website provides a searchable directory.
• If your child is facing criminal allegations, request a public defender through the police or court.
• Gather any relevant documents (such as correspondence with social services, school reports, or court orders) before meeting with a lawyer.
• Ask about legal aid (rättshjälp) to help with legal costs, as eligible families can get assistance from the state.
• Seek out mediation or counseling offered through social services if facing family disputes to resolve issues outside of court if possible.