förvaltningsprocesslagen

Förvaltningspraxis refers to the established methods and practices that public authorities in Sweden use when applying laws and regulations in decision making. It encompasses the customary interpretations, guidelines, and general patterns that develop over time through repeated administrative rulings, authoritative circulars, and practice notes. The term signals how discretion is exercised in daily administration, beyond what is written in statutes alone.

The practice evolves from multiple sources, including statutory text, case law from administrative courts, and internal guidelines issued by agencies to promote consistency. It helps authorities interpret ambiguous provisions, weigh evidence, and determine proportionality and drainage of discretionary power. While forvaltningspraxis guides decisions, it is not a substitute for formal law; decisions must remain compatible with applicable statutes, constitutional principles, and the rule of law.

In practice, forvaltningspraxis affects areas such as social benefits, building permits, tax assessments, and permits. It aims to promote predictability, fairness, and efficiency, while allowing reasonable flexibility to account for individual circumstances. Courts and appeal bodies may take established practice into account when reviewing administrative decisions, particularly where legal provisions are unclear. Authorities are expected to document and publish significant guidelines to ensure transparency, while ensuring that practice does not undermine rights or lead to arbitrary outcomes. Challenges to practice can arise through administrative appeals, judicial review, or legislative changes that formalize or modify established procedures.