Förvaltningsdomstolarna

Förvaltningsdomstolarna are the Swedish administrative courts, a part of the judiciary that handles disputes arising from decisions made by public authorities. They interpret and apply administrative law in a range of areas, including taxation, social insurance, migration, social services, housing, planning, and environmental regulation, as well as licensing and subsidies.

The court system operates on three levels. Förvaltningsrätten (the Administrative Court) serves as the first instance. If a party wishes to challenge a decision, the case can be appealed to the Kammarrätt (the Administrative Court of Appeal), which reviews the case on points of law and fact. In certain cases, leave to appeal to Högsta förvaltningsdomstolen (the Supreme Administrative Court) is required for the matter to be reconsidered at the highest level, where limited, principle-based reviews guide uniform application of law across the country.

Cases are brought by individuals, companies, or organizations affected by a public authority’s decision. Proceedings are typically conducted through written submissions, though hearings may be held. The courts issue binding rulings, and their interpretations provide guidance for public administration and lower courts. Decisions are generally public, and the framework for representation, including potential legal aid, supports access to justice.

The overarching purpose of Förvaltningsdomstolarna is to ensure that administrative decisions comply with applicable law, protect individual rights, and maintain a coherent, predictable application of public rules throughout Sweden.