Best Juvenile Law Lawyers in Solna

About Juvenile Law in Solna, Sweden

Juvenile law covers the rules and procedures that apply when children and young people under 18 are involved in legal matters - for example care and protection decisions, family law disputes, criminal matters and school or health-related issues. In Sweden these matters are governed mainly by national laws, but many decisions are carried out locally by Solna municipality and Stockholm county authorities. The system aims to prioritise the best interests of the child, rehabilitation and protection rather than punishment, and there are special rules that apply to persons under 18.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may need legal help in juvenile matters when complex legal rights or serious decisions are at stake. Common situations include:

- A child or young person is suspected of or accused of a criminal offence - legal representation protects rights during police interviews and in court.

- Social services propose placing a child in care under LVU or other measures - a lawyer can challenge or negotiate decisions and represent parents or the child in court.

- Disputes about custody, parental responsibility, or contact - lawyers help parents understand options and represent them in family proceedings.

- Administrative decisions affecting a minor - for example school exclusion, special education placements or decisions by authorities such as the Migration Agency.

- Cases involving violence, sexual abuse, neglect, or urgent protective measures - legal advice helps with court applications, restraining orders and coordination with social services and police.

- If you need to appeal a decision by social services, a government agency or a court - legal expertise increases the chance of a successful appeal.

Local Laws Overview

Key legal frameworks and local features relevant in Solna include:

- National statutes that apply across Sweden: Brottsbalken (the Criminal Code), Socialtjänstlagen - SoL (the Social Services Act), LVU (the Care of Young Persons Act), Föräldrabalken (the Parental Code), and Skollagen (the Education Act). Since 2020 the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child is part of Swedish law and influences interpretation.

- Age thresholds: children under 15 are generally not criminally prosecuted in Sweden. Young people aged 15-17 can be held criminally responsible, but courts and authorities apply special rules focused on rehabilitation and age-appropriate measures.

- Social services in Solna (Socialtjänsten i Solna) handle child protection investigations and care decisions. If there is concern about a child’s safety they can propose voluntary measures under SoL or, in more serious situations, coercive care under LVU.

- Police and courts apply modified procedures for minors - interviews should be child-friendly, and pre-trial detention and sentencing consider the young person’s age.

- Local support services - Solna and Stockholm county have local youth clinics, child protection teams, healthcare services and, where relevant, child-friendly interview centres such as Barnahus-style services for victims or witnesses.

Frequently Asked Questions

At what age is a child criminally responsible in Sweden?

Children under 15 are generally not prosecuted for criminal offences. Young people aged 15-17 can be held criminally responsible, but the justice system uses special measures and focuses on rehabilitation and age-appropriate sanctions rather than punishment equivalent to adults.

What is LVU and when can it be used?

LVU is the law that allows social services to apply for compulsory care when a child is seriously at risk due to neglect, abuse, substance misuse, or an unsafe home environment. LVU is intended as a last resort when voluntary measures under SoL have failed or are insufficient. A court decides on LVU after a legal process where parents and the child have a right to be heard.

Can parents refuse social services interventions?

Parents can refuse voluntary help offered by social services, but social services can still investigate concerns. If the authorities consider the child is at serious risk, they can ask a court for compulsory measures under LVU even if parents object. You have a right to legal representation during such proceedings.

What rights does a child have during police interviews and court hearings?

Children have the right to be treated respectfully and with consideration for their age and maturity. Interviews should be conducted in a child-friendly way and often recorded. A child has the right to a trusted adult, and in many cases legal counsel or a public defender if accused of a crime. Courts assess the child’s best interests in decisions affecting them.

How do custody and visitation decisions work for families in Solna?

Custody and visitation matters are governed by Föräldrabalken. Parents are encouraged to agree on custody and contact. If they cannot agree, the family court decides based on the child’s best interests. Social services may be involved if there are welfare concerns. Courts can change custody and visitation arrangements if circumstances justify it.

What happens if a young person needs protection from violence or sexual abuse?

If a child is at immediate risk, contact the police or emergency services. Social services should be contacted to initiate protection and support. Forensic interviews and medical examinations may be arranged through child-friendly services. You can seek legal advice to apply for protective orders or to challenge inadequate protective measures.

How do I find a lawyer who specialises in juvenile matters in Solna?

Look for lawyers or law firms that list family law, child law or criminal defence for young people among their practice areas. Ask whether they have experience with LVU cases, child protection, or juvenile criminal defence. Many local lawyers in the Stockholm area handle cases involving young people and can offer an initial consultation. If you qualify, you may be eligible for legal aid to cover costs.

Is legal aid available for juvenile cases?

Yes - Sweden has a system of legal aid (rättshjälp) that can cover part or all of legal costs based on income, assets and case type. Children and parents in serious juvenile matters often qualify for public defence or legal aid, especially in criminal or LVU proceedings. Ask the lawyer or the local legal aid authorities how to apply and what documentation is required.

Can a young immigrant or unaccompanied minor get separate legal protection?

Unaccompanied minors and young immigrants have special protections under migration and child welfare rules. They should be assigned a guardian and can get legal assistance in immigration proceedings. Social services have a duty to ensure the child’s welfare. It is important to secure legal advice early to protect rights and ensure appropriate care.

How can I appeal a decision by social services or a court in juvenile matters?

Decisions by social services can often be appealed to the administrative courts, and court decisions in family or criminal matters can be appealed to higher courts within set time limits. The appeals process varies with the type of decision. A lawyer can explain the applicable deadlines, grounds for appeal and the likely outcomes.

Additional Resources

Organisations and authorities that can help people in Solna with juvenile law matters include:

- Socialtjänsten i Solna - the local social services department that handles child protection and welfare measures.

- Polisen - for reports of crime, urgent protection needs and investigations involving minors.

- Barnombudsmannen - the Swedish Children's Ombudsman, for information about children's rights.

- Socialstyrelsen - the National Board of Health and Welfare, which issues guidance on child protection and social services.

- Advokatsamfundet - the Swedish Bar Association, which can help locate qualified lawyers with experience in family law and criminal defence for young people.

- Barnahus-style services and child-friendly interview centres - multidisciplinary centres that support children who are victims or witnesses.

- Victim support organisations - for victims of crime, including services tailored to children and young people.

- Local health and youth services in Solna - youth clinics, child and adolescent psychiatric services and school welfare teams for health and social support.

Next Steps

If you or a young person need legal assistance in Solna, consider these practical steps:

- If there is immediate danger, contact emergency services or the police right away.

- Collect and keep any relevant documents - notes from meetings with social services, school reports, medical records, police reports and written decisions.

- Contact Socialtjänsten i Solna to understand current measures and your rights in their process.

- Seek legal advice promptly. Ask for a lawyer with experience in juvenile matters - family law, LVU cases or juvenile criminal defence depending on the issue.

- Ask about legal aid if you have limited means - this can cover part or all of legal costs in many juvenile cases.

- Keep a record of all communications and meetings, and prepare questions in advance of appointments so you cover what matters most to the child’s welfare.

- Use local support services - health, school welfare, and victim support organisations can provide practical help while legal proceedings are ongoing.

Getting timely legal advice can protect the child’s rights and ensure decisions are made with the child’s best interests at heart. If you are unsure where to start, a local family lawyer or the municipality’s social services information line can point you to the right first contact.