Foreign individuals and companies often become involved in civil cases in Sweden — whether through business contracts, property ownership, inheritance, or family-related disputes.
Swedish courts are accustomed to handling cases with international elements, and foreign parties have the same rights to legal representation as Swedish citizens.
This article explains how civil court proceedings in Sweden work for foreigners and how a Swedish lawyer (advokat) can represent clients who live abroad.
1. Equal Access to Swedish Courts
Under Swedish law, foreigners have full access to the Swedish judicial system.
You do not need to be a Swedish citizen or resident to bring a claim or defend one.
The key requirement is that the case falls under Swedish jurisdiction — for example, if:
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The dispute or property is located in Sweden,
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A contract specifies Swedish law or courts, or
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The opposing party is based in Sweden.
Once jurisdiction is established, the process follows the same procedural rules for all parties.
2. Representation by a Swedish Advokat
Foreign clients are typically represented by a licensed Swedish lawyer (advokat).
The title advokat is protected by law and reserved for members of the Swedish Bar Association (Advokatsamfundet).
This ensures that your representative is:
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Professionally qualified and independent,
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Bound by confidentiality, and
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Subject to ethical and disciplinary oversight.
A Swedish advokat may represent clients before all Swedish courts and tribunals, including in appeals.
3. Authorising Representation from Abroad
You can appoint a Swedish lawyer from abroad using a power of attorney (fullmakt), which can be signed electronically.
After that, the lawyer can:
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File a lawsuit or defence on your behalf,
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Handle written correspondence and evidence exchange, and
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Appear in hearings and negotiations.
You do not need to attend in person unless your testimony is required.
Courts frequently permit participation by video link for international parties.
4. Language and Interpretation
Court proceedings in Sweden are conducted in Swedish, but your lawyer can prepare filings and explain all stages of the process in English.
If you must testify or attend a hearing, the court will arrange an official interpreter at no extra cost to you.
Most Swedish advokater are fluent in English, and many have experience representing foreign clients in cross-border disputes.
5. Structure of Civil Proceedings
Civil cases in Sweden generally follow these stages:
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Statement of claim (from the claimant),
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Written response (from the defendant),
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Preparatory proceedings — to clarify facts and evidence, and
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Main hearing before the District Court (Tingsrätt).
Judgments can be appealed to the Court of Appeal (Hovrätten) and, with permission, to the Supreme Court (Högsta domstolen).
The process is largely written, and strict formalities are less common than in some other jurisdictions.
6. Evidence and Burden of Proof
Swedish civil procedure emphasises written evidence, such as:
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Contracts and correspondence,
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Invoices and records,
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Expert opinions, and
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Witness statements (if necessary).
The party making a claim must prove the facts supporting it.
Your advokat will prepare submissions, organise exhibits, and present the case in a structured manner suitable for Swedish courts.
7. Legal Costs and Payment
Legal fees are generally billed by the hour.
Foreign clients are usually asked to pay an advance fee (retainer) before proceedings start.
If you win the case, the opposing party may be ordered to reimburse your reasonable legal expenses.
All fee terms are specified in a written engagement letter, in line with Swedish Bar rules.
8. Enforcement of Judgments Abroad
A final judgment from a Swedish court can often be enforced in other countries through EU regulations, Nordic cooperation treaties, or international conventions.
Your Swedish advokat can coordinate with local counsel in the relevant jurisdiction for enforcement if needed.
Summary
Foreigners have the same rights as Swedes to pursue or defend civil cases in Swedish courts.
Representation is handled by a licensed advokat, who can manage all communication, filings, and hearings — even if you live abroad.
Sweden’s court system is transparent, efficient, and accessible, making it a reliable venue for resolving civil disputes involving international parties.
