Ombudsman

What does a Justitieombudsman do? – Tasks and work environment

A Justitieombudsman plays a central role in the Swedish legal system and works to ensure that authorities and officials follow laws and regulations. Tasks include reviewing cases where misconduct by authorities is suspected, investigating complaints from the public, and making decisions on possible actions or criticism. The role also involves participating in consultations, writing opinions, and engaging in training related to legal certainty. The work environment is mainly office-based, characterized by a fast pace, complex cases, and significant responsibility for legality and integrity, often in close collaboration with lawyers and other experts.

Salary development over time

The salary for a Justitieombudsman has shown a clear upward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 102,400 SEK per month, increasing to 109 000 SEK in 2023 and further to 115 200 SEK in 2024. The total increase over three years amounts to approximately 12.5%. This development reflects an increased demand for qualified lawyers in public administration and the high standards required for legal certainty and integrity in the role. The salary increase can also be linked to a general trend of higher wages in senior positions within the public sector, where competition for experienced lawyers has intensified. Despite the high salary level, the profession remains relatively rare, and the recruitment pool is limited, helping to keep wages high.

Justitieombudsman salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 115 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 94,800 SEK/month (men, public sector, high school education)
• Lowest salary (women): 108,400 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 175,300 SEK/month (men, municipal sector, post-secondary education ≥3 years)
• Highest salary (women): 166,900 SEK/month
• Hourly rate: 693 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 99% of what men do (men: 115 800 SEK, women: 114 700 SEK)
• Regional differences: No specific differences, but variations may occur depending on employer and location.

Education and qualifications

To work as a Justitieombudsman, a law degree and extensive experience in qualified legal work are generally required, often within public administration, the judiciary, or law firms. In addition to formal education, analytical ability, good communication skills, and high integrity are valued. The recruitment process is highly selective and competitive.

• Formal degree: Law degree (4.5 years at university)
• Additional training: Advanced courses in administrative law, procedural law, or human rights
• Work experience: Experience from courts, authorities, or law firms is often a requirement
• Prerequisites: Very good legal knowledge and proven professional skill
• Tips for applicants: Engagement in legal certainty issues and professional networks can be advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

A Justitieombudsman often enjoys generous benefits within the public sector, such as occupational pension, flexitime, extra vacation days, and opportunities for professional development. Wellness allowances, support for further education, and comprehensive insurance coverage are also common. Some employers also offer options for remote work and leadership development.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a Justitieombudsman is very high, as the number of roles is limited and the requirements for competence are extensive. Challenges in the role include interpreting and applying laws, managing complex cases with significant societal impact and public scrutiny. The role demands high integrity and the ability to make independent decisions, sometimes under pressure or media attention. Additionally, a Justitieombudsman must stay constantly updated on legislative changes and case law. Workload can be heavy, and the pace intense, especially during larger investigations or high-profile cases.

Tips for aspiring Justitieombudsman

To succeed as a Justitieombudsman, it is beneficial to combine analytical sharpness with strong integrity and good teamwork skills. A first step is to pursue a solid law degree and actively seek experience from courts or qualified authority work. The ability to communicate clearly, both in writing and orally, is essential for managing complex cases and explaining decisions. Engagement in legal certainty issues and an interest in societal issues facilitate entry into the profession. Building a professional network within the legal and governmental sectors is also valuable, as is demonstrating independence and integrity in previous roles. Finally, staying updated on legislative changes and case law is crucial to perform at the highest professional level.

Key facts about Justitieombudsman

• Educational level: Law degree (4.5 years)
• Work environment: Office-based, high pace, often within the public sector
• Typical employment: Full-time, permanent position
• Demand: 175 job openings within the profession according to latest statistics
• Gender distribution: Even, with small salary differences between genders

Career paths and future prospects

A Justitieombudsman often has several development opportunities after three to five years in the role. Many advance to leadership positions within the judiciary or public administration, such as chief legal officer, director-general, or judge in higher courts. Others choose to specialize further in areas like human rights or international law. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the outlook for qualified lawyers in the public sector remains good, although the number of positions as a Justitieombudsman is limited. The high salary level and significant responsibility mean roles are rarely vacant for long, but those with the right competence and experience have good prospects for advancement and influence.

Frequently asked questions about Justitieombudsman

• What does a Justitieombudsman earn?
  - The average salary is 115 200 SEK/month, with an hourly rate of 693 SEK.
• What education is required to become a Justitieombudsman?
  - Law degree (4.5 years) and several years of qualified legal experience.
• Are there significant salary differences between genders?
  - No, women earn 99% of what men do within the profession.
• What is the work environment like?
  - Office-based, high pace, and large responsibility for legal certainty.
• What does the future look like for the profession?
  - Demand is stable with 175 job openings within the profession according to recent statistics.
• What are the biggest challenges in the role?
  - Handling complex cases, high workload, and public scrutiny.
• What are the opportunities for career development?
  - Good opportunities exist for leadership positions within the judiciary and public sector.