Joanna Hedqvist: “The law programme in Örebro has shaped my personality and my way of thinking”
Photo: Ulla-Carin Ekblom
She grew up in Lundby, attended secondary school at Vivallaskolan and kickstarted her career as a judge while studying law at Örebro University. Here, she found not only her passion for law but also lifelong friendships. Joanna Hedqvist’s work has positioned her in the thick of political affairs at the Swedish Government Offices, where she applies law to bring about change and make the world a better place.
Profession: Associate Judge and Legal Counsel at the Ministry of Finance
Studied: Law, 2007–2011
For Joanna Hedqvist, born and raised in Örebro, studying law at Örebro University was without hesitation her first choice. She now practises as a legal counsel at the Ministry of Finance and holds the associate judge title, meaning she has completed her training to become a judge.
Her first steps in her judicial career were taken while still studying. During her final semesters, she took extra courses and earned double credits to attain the qualifications and grades required for a position as a court clerk in Stockholm.
“The law programme at Örebro was very intense at times, while at the same time tremendously educational and, to be honest, quite fun. Those years shaped my personality and way of thinking – and I made lifelong friends here. The class had a great sense of community, and we became a tight-knit group who’ve also stuck together over the years. Those in my core group during the first semester are still my best friends today. We ended up in the same group because our surnames started with the same letter,” says Joanna Hedqvist.
As a judge in both the district court and the court of appeal, Joanna Hedqvist has worked within many legal areas, from economic and family law disputes to criminal cases ranging from traffic offences to murder.
“I’m really proud that I was accepted onto the judicial training programme at the Svea Court of Appeal. It was a pivotal and defining point in my career. However, working as a judge can also be mentally exhausting. Sometimes, you need to distance yourself from your work to cope.”
Judging cases where a child has been subjected to rape while having children the same age at home takes a toll on your mind.
“It’s tough. I’m afraid I’ll never get those images out of my mind,” says Joanna Hedqvist.
For the past few years, she has worked as a legal counsel at the Government Offices, first at the Ministry of Justice and now at the Ministry of Finance, where she works on legislation regulating gambling. Her job is to implement the government’s policies through legislation.
“It’s stimulating working close to political power. I find that writing various legislative proposals is incredibly appealing to my inner legal nerd. Especially knowing the legislation we prepare often has a significant and immediate impact on many people.”
Her unwavering ambition is a commitment to making the world a better place.
“I want to make a change and do good in society. Law is an effective instrument if you want to make a difference.”
How does it feel to be honoured as an alumnus on Örebro University’s Wall of Inspiration?
“It’s incredibly rewarding! I’d be thrilled if I can inspire others to study at Örebro University,” says Joanna Hedqvist.