Best Sexual Harassment Lawyers in Solna

About Sexual Harassment Law in Solna, Sweden

Sexual harassment in Solna is governed primarily by national Swedish law. That means rules that apply across Sweden also apply in Solna - for example in workplaces, schools and public places. Sexual harassment generally means unwelcome sexual advances, comments, gestures or other behaviour of a sexual nature that violates a person s dignity. Depending on the facts, conduct can be handled as discrimination and workplace harassment, or as a criminal offence. Employers, educational institutions and public authorities in Solna must follow the same duties and procedures as elsewhere in Sweden, and local support services and unions can provide practical help.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may need a lawyer if you face any of the following situations:

- The employer does not investigate or stops the investigation into repeated harassment.

- You want to file a civil claim for damages or negotiate a settlement, including severance or confidentiality agreements.

- The conduct may be a crime and you want legal support when reporting to the police or being a civil claimant in a criminal case.

- You face retaliation, unlawful dismissal or disciplinary action after reporting harassment.

- You need help preserving and presenting evidence, interviewing witnesses, or preparing witness statements.

- You need advice on complex disputes that involve both employment law and criminal law issues, or on complaints to public authorities.

A lawyer experienced in employment law, discrimination law and/or criminal law can explain your options, assess likely outcomes, communicate with the employer or police on your behalf, and represent you in negotiations or court.

Local Laws Overview

Key legal frameworks relevant in Solna include:

- The Discrimination Act - protects individuals from sexual harassment and other forms of discrimination in employment, education and other areas. It obliges employers and education providers to take active measures to prevent harassment and to investigate complaints.

- The Work Environment Act - requires employers to maintain a safe and healthy work environment. Employers must prevent and remedy harassment and must carry out investigations and follow-up measures when problems arise.

- The Criminal Code - covers sexual offences. Some forms of sexual harassment may be investigated as criminal conduct, ranging from sexual molestation to more serious sexual crimes. Criminal reporting and prosecution is handled by the police and public prosecutor.

- Remedies and procedures - victims can seek remedies through the employer s internal procedures, file a discrimination complaint with the relevant authority, report criminal conduct to the police, and in many cases pursue civil damages through the courts. There are also state victim compensation schemes for certain crimes.

- Practical enforcement - agencies such as the Equality Ombudsman, the Work Environment Authority and local police handle different kinds of complaints; unions and occupational health services often assist employees in Solna workplaces.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as sexual harassment under Swedish law?

Sexual harassment covers unwelcome sexual attention, comments, gestures, physical contact or other behaviour of a sexual nature that violates a person s dignity. Context, frequency and severity matter. It can occur between colleagues, between a manager and an employee, in schools or in public spaces.

How do I decide whether to report to my employer or to the police?

If the incident happened in the workplace or at school, report to your employer or the responsible authority so they can investigate and take measures. If the conduct is criminal in nature - for example unwanted sexual touching, coercion or threats - you can also report to the police. You can do both. If you are unsure, seek advice from your union, an occupational health service or a lawyer.

What should I do immediately after an incident?

Prioritise your safety. If you are in danger call emergency services. Preserve evidence - keep messages, screenshots, emails, photos and a written timeline of events. Note witnesses names and dates. Seek medical care if needed and consider psychological support. Report the incident to your employer, school or the police as appropriate.

Can my employer be legally responsible for harassment by a colleague or manager?

Yes. Employers have a legal duty to prevent and remedy harassment. If an employer fails to investigate or take reasonable measures, they can be held responsible and the victim may be able to seek redress, including damages. Report the matter internally and document your steps.

Will filing a complaint protect me from retaliation?

Swedish law prohibits reprisals for reporting harassment or participating in an investigation. If you experience retaliation, report it immediately to your employer or union and seek legal advice. Retaliation itself can be the basis for a separate claim.

Do I need witnesses or proof to make a claim?

Evidence strengthens a case, but a lack of witnesses does not automatically prevent action. Keep and preserve any direct evidence - messages, emails, photos, CCTV where available - and prepare a clear written account of events. Witness statements can help if colleagues or third parties observed the conduct.

Can I file a discrimination complaint with a government agency?

Yes. Complaints about sexual harassment in contexts covered by discrimination law can be made to the relevant authority that handles discrimination issues. Agencies can investigate and issue decisions. Legal advice can help you decide whether to pursue an administrative complaint, a civil claim or a criminal report.

What remedies are available if I was sexually harassed?

Possible remedies include internal corrective measures by the employer, financial compensation through a settlement or court award, criminal prosecution of the perpetrator, and state victim compensation where applicable. Remedies depend on the facts, how you proceed and the applicable law.

How long do I have to take action?

Time limits can vary depending on the type of claim. Criminal reports should be made as soon as possible; civil claims and administrative complaints may have specific limitation periods. Because time limits and practical consequences vary, report promptly and seek legal advice early.

How much will a lawyer cost and can I get legal aid?

Lawyer fees vary by firm and case complexity. Some lawyers offer an initial consultation. You may be eligible for legal aid or fee arrangements depending on income and case type - ask prospective lawyers about fees, legal aid possibilities and whether the lawyer will handle the case on a fixed-fee or contingency basis. Unions sometimes offer legal support to members.

Additional Resources

Authorities and organisations that can help people in Solna include:

- Diskrimineringsombudsmannen (Equality Ombudsman)

- Arbetsmiljöverket (Swedish Work Environment Authority)

- The Police - for reporting criminal conduct and getting protection measures

- Brottsoffermyndigheten (Crime Victim Authority) and Brottsofferjouren (Victim Support Sweden)

- Solna kommun social services and municipal HR for public-sector workplaces

- Unions and professional associations such as Unionen, Kommunal or others relevant to your sector

- Roks and local women s shelters and hotlines

- Kvinnofridslinjen - national support for victims of violence and abuse

- RFSU - sexual health and counselling organisations

- Sveriges advokatsamfund (Swedish Bar Association) to locate qualified lawyers

- Företagshälsovård (occupational health services) that operate in many workplaces

Next Steps

Follow a clear, practical path if you need legal assistance:

- Ensure safety - if you are in immediate danger call emergency services.

- Preserve evidence - save messages, take screenshots, write a timeline and note witnesses.

- Seek medical and psychological care if needed and request medical records if relevant.

- Report the incident internally - to your employer, school or responsible authority - and ask for the report to be documented.

- If the conduct may be criminal, consider filing a police report and ask about protection options such as a contact ban.

- Contact your union or occupational health service for support and representation if you are a member.

- Consult a lawyer experienced in sexual harassment, employment or criminal law. Ask about fees, initial consultation terms and whether legal aid or union support is available.

- Consider administrative complaints to discrimination authorities or civil claims for damages depending on the advice you receive.

- Use local support organisations for emotional and practical support throughout the process.

Note - this guide provides general information and does not replace tailored legal advice. For case-specific guidance contact a qualified lawyer or your union representative in Solna. If you are in immediate danger call emergency services right away.