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This guide explains how assault and battery cases are handled in Agia Paraskevi - a suburb of Athens - and what victims or accused persons should expect when they seek legal help. In Greece, acts that cause or threaten bodily harm are treated as criminal matters. The local police - the Hellenic Police - and the public prosecutor investigate alleged offences. Outcomes can include criminal penalties, temporary protective measures, and separate civil claims for compensation. Local courts in the Attica region hear trials when a case is prosecuted.
A lawyer can help at every stage - from the first police report through investigation, pre-trial proceedings and trial. Common situations where legal help is important include:
- You are the victim and need to ensure your statement is correctly recorded, evidence is preserved, and you pursue criminal and civil remedies.
- You are accused and need defence at police interviews, to avoid self-incrimination, and to prepare for court.
- The incident involves aggravating factors such as weapons, serious bodily injury, repeat offences, or vulnerable victims - these make the legal stakes higher.
- The situation involves domestic violence or family members - special protections and fast procedures may apply and a lawyer can help secure protective measures.
- You need help gathering and presenting medical records, witness statements, CCTV footage, or electronic evidence - a lawyer knows how to preserve and submit these items properly.
Key points to understand about how Greek criminal law applies locally in Agia Paraskevi:
- Criminal nature - Assault and physical harm are criminal offences. The public prosecutor usually leads the prosecution after an investigation initiated by a police complaint.
- Degrees of seriousness - Offences range from minor offences with lighter penalties to aggravated forms that carry significant prison sentences when there is severe injury, use of a weapon, premeditation, or the victim belongs to a protected category.
- Investigation process - After you report an incident to the police station in Agia Paraskevi, the case is referred to the public prosecutor who may order further investigation, medical examinations, witness interviews, and detention or release of a suspect.
- Protective measures - In cases of domestic violence or ongoing danger, temporary protection or restraining measures may be available quickly through the police or by application to a court.
- Civil remedies - Victims can pursue separate civil claims for compensation for medical costs, lost earnings, psychological harm, and material losses. Compensation claims can proceed alongside criminal prosecution.
- Legal aid - Low income persons may qualify for state-funded legal aid or assistance through the local bar association. The Athens Bar Association is the main professional body for lawyers covering Agia Paraskevi.
- Statute of limitations - Time limits for bringing criminal charges or civil claims vary by the seriousness of the offence. These deadlines are important and you should consult a lawyer promptly.
In general terms, assault refers to an act that causes someone to fear imminent unlawful harm, while battery refers to the actual physical contact or injury. Greek criminal law distinguishes offences based on the presence of physical injury, intent, and severity. If you are unsure which category applies in your case, a lawyer can review the facts and advise on likely charges and remedies.
Go to the nearest Hellenic Police station in Agia Paraskevi and make a written statement. You can also report the incident to the public prosecutor - prosecutors may accept complaints or refer you back to the police for initial documentation. If you need immediate help, contact the police emergency services. After reporting, ask for a copy of the incident note and keep records of the officer and file number.
Police may arrest a suspect when there is immediate danger, eyewitness evidence, or serious injury. For less clear situations they may detain the person for questioning or refer the matter to the prosecutor for further investigation. Arrests depend on the facts, available evidence, and the public prosecutor's decisions.
Important evidence includes medical records and certificates documenting injuries, photographs of injuries and the scene, CCTV footage, witness names and contact details, communication records such as text messages or social media messages, and the police report. Preserve clothing and any objects related to the incident. Do not alter or destroy potential evidence.
You should make a criminal complaint to the police or prosecutor. Most bodily harm offences are pursued by the public prosecutor after an official complaint and investigation. In addition, you may start civil proceedings for compensation. A lawyer can help you file the correct criminal complaint and civil claim where appropriate.
Penalties depend on the offence severity - ranging from fines and suspended sentences to imprisonment for more serious bodily harm. Aggravating circumstances - such as use of a weapon, serious permanent injury, repeat offences, or targeting a vulnerable person - increase the likely penalty. Only a court can determine the final sentence after conviction.
Yes - victims can pursue civil compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses. Compensation claims can be brought in civil court, and in many cases victims also state their compensation claim as part of the criminal proceedings. A lawyer will advise on quantifying damages and the best legal path to recover them.
Timelines vary widely. A police investigation and pre-trial stage can take weeks to months. Trials and appeals can extend the process to many months or years depending on complexity, court schedules, and whether the case is contested. For urgent protective measures, faster interim steps are often available.
You have the right to legal counsel during police interviews. It is strongly recommended to have a lawyer present whether you are a victim or a suspect. A lawyer protects your rights, helps avoid mistakes, ensures statements are accurately recorded, and advises on strategy for subsequent criminal or civil actions.
Domestic violence cases often qualify for immediate protective measures. The police can act to separate parties and refer victims to support services. Courts can issue protection or restraining orders, and prosecutors may prioritise investigation to secure safety. Specialized victim support services and shelters can assist - a lawyer can help coordinate legal steps and referrals to social services.
Consider contacting or consulting the following local and national resources when dealing with assault and battery matters in Agia Paraskevi:
- Hellenic Police - local police station in Agia Paraskevi and the general police victim support structure for immediate reporting and protection.
- Public Prosecutor's Office - handles criminal investigations and prosecutions in the Attica courts.
- Athens Bar Association - for lawyer referrals, professional standards, and information on legal aid.
- Ministry of Justice - information about legal aid schemes and rights of victims.
- Local victim support organizations and social services - for counselling, shelter and practical help in domestic violence situations. Your lawyer can provide referrals to trusted local NGOs and services.
If you need legal assistance after an assault in Agia Paraskevi, follow these steps to protect your rights and safety:
- Ensure immediate safety - move to a secure location and contact the police if you are in danger.
- Seek medical attention - obtain a medical report documenting injuries; this is crucial evidence.
- Report the incident - make a written complaint to the local police station and obtain a copy of the police record.
- Preserve evidence - keep clothing, take photographs, save messages and note witnesses.
- Contact a lawyer - ask for a criminal lawyer experienced in assault and domestic violence cases. If cost is an issue, enquire about legal aid or referrals through the Athens Bar Association.
- Consider civil claims - discuss with your lawyer whether to seek compensation alongside any criminal proceedings.
- Use support services - if necessary, reach out to victim support organizations for emotional, medical and practical assistance.
Act promptly - time limits and investigative needs mean early action generally improves outcomes. A qualified local lawyer will guide you through reporting, evidence preservation, protective measures and any criminal or civil proceedings.
