siirtohakumenettely

Siirtohakumenettely is a legal procedure in Finland related to the transfer of a child between parents or guardians. It is primarily used in situations where there is a dispute over custody, visitation rights, or where a child is being moved to a new residential arrangement. The process aims to ensure the child's best interests are paramount.

The siirtohakumenettely is initiated by an application to the municipal child welfare authority. This authority will then investigate the circumstances surrounding the proposed transfer. This investigation typically involves interviews with the parents or guardians, and crucially, with the child, taking into account their age and maturity. The authority may also gather information from other relevant parties, such as schools or healthcare providers.

Following the investigation, the child welfare authority makes a recommendation regarding the transfer. This recommendation is not legally binding but carries significant weight. If the parties do not agree with the authority's recommendation, the matter may be escalated to the district court for a formal decision. The court will also prioritize the child's best interests when making its ruling. This procedure is designed to provide a structured and child-focused approach to resolving disputes concerning a child's living situation and care.