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Free Guide to Hiring a Family Lawyer
Domestic violence in Beersel is dealt with under Belgian national law and local enforcement in the Flemish region. Domestic violence covers a range of harmful behaviours between people who are or were close to one another - for example partners, spouses, ex-partners, relatives, or household members. That includes physical violence, sexual violence, psychological and emotional abuse, stalking, economic control, and other forms of coercion.
Victims in Beersel can rely on criminal law, civil remedies and social services. Criminal authorities can investigate and prosecute offences such as assault, threats, sexual offences and harassment. Civil courts can order urgent protective measures and address family matters such as separation, custody and residence rights. Local social services and specialised support organisations provide practical help and crisis support in Dutch and often in French and English.
You may need a lawyer if you are a victim of domestic violence or if you face allegations of domestic violence. A lawyer helps protect your rights, explain legal options and represent you in court. Common situations where legal help is useful include:
- Seeking an urgent protection order or exclusion from the family home.
- Filing or responding to criminal charges, or understanding police and prosecutor procedures.
- Initiating or defending divorce, legal separation or custody proceedings where violence or safety concerns affect outcomes.
- Arranging child custody, visitation, maintenance and residence in a way that protects the child and the victim.
- Applying for legal aid if you cannot afford private representation and need a lawyer for court procedures.
- Advising on immigration, housing, employment or social benefits issues that may arise after leaving an abusive situation.
Belgian criminal law covers acts that commonly occur in domestic-violence situations, including assault, sexual offences, threats, stalking and harassment. When you file a complaint at the police, the matter is referred to the public prosecutor's office for investigation and possible prosecution. The public prosecutor has powers to request immediate protective measures in urgent cases.
Civil and family courts handle protective injunctions, separation, divorce, custody and residence matters. Courts can issue orders that restrict contact, exclude a perpetrator from the shared home, set temporary custody or visitation rules and order provisional maintenance payments. These civil orders are enforceable and can be used alongside criminal processes.
Victim support and compensation schemes exist for people injured by violent crimes. Legal aid - known as subsidised legal assistance - is available for people who meet financial eligibility requirements. Local municipal services, victim support centres and Centres for General Welfare Work provide crisis accommodation, counselling and social support.
Police and judicial procedures respect the rights of both victims and accused persons. Evidence matters: medical certificates, photographs, messages, witness statements and police reports strengthen a case. Time limits and procedural rules apply, so early legal advice is important.
Domestic violence includes physical assault, sexual violence, threats, stalking, psychological abuse, controlling behaviour, financial control and other actions intended to harm, intimidate or control a current or former partner, family member or household member. Even repeated low-level acts of control or intimidation can amount to domestic violence when they cause fear or undermine a person-s autonomy.
In an emergency call 112. For non-emergency situations, report to the local police station and make a formal complaint (aangifte). The police will create a report and may take immediate measures. The report is passed to the public prosecutor-s office, which decides whether to open a criminal investigation. You can also contact local victim support services for help during the reporting process.
Police and prosecutors can take urgent measures in situations that present an immediate danger. Courts can order the exclusion of a person from the shared home or impose contact restrictions. The precise procedure and duration depend on the urgency, the facts and court decisions. A lawyer or victim support worker can help you request exclusion or other protective measures.
Immediate protections may include emergency police intervention, temporary exclusion from the home, police-imposed contact restrictions or referrals to shelters. The public prosecutor can ask the court for urgent protective orders. Civil courts can also issue protection orders. Victim support organisations and shelters can provide emergency accommodation and safety planning.
You do not always need a lawyer to request urgent help from police or to file a complaint, but legal representation is strongly advisable for court proceedings. A lawyer can prepare the request, argue for appropriate measures before a judge and represent you during hearings. If you cannot afford a lawyer, you can apply for subsidised legal assistance via the local bar association.
Reporting domestic violence does not automatically mean children will be removed from the home. Family services and the court consider the child-s safety and best interests. Temporary protective measures can be arranged, including supervised contact, temporary custody adjustments or social services support to secure a safe environment for the child. If immediate risk exists, child protection authorities may act to protect the child.
Keep medical records and certificates, photos of injuries or damage, screenshots or copies of abusive messages or emails, dates and descriptions of incidents, witness names and contact details, and any police reports. Preserve evidence in a safe place and consider copies stored electronically. Evidence strengthens both criminal and civil cases.
Yes. Belgium offers subsidised legal assistance for people who meet financial eligibility criteria. You apply for legal aid via a lawyer, the local bar association or the courts. If you qualify, the state covers part or all of your lawyer-s fees for certain proceedings. Ask a lawyer or victim support organisation to help you with the application.
If the prosecutor believes there is sufficient evidence, the case can proceed to court. The accused has the right to a defence. If convicted, penalties can include fines, imprisonment and restraining orders. Separate civil proceedings may address custody, residence, maintenance and compensation for damages. Victim support services can help you understand the criminal process and your role as a witness or victim.
Yes. Emergency services, police assistance and shelters are available regardless of nationality. You have the right to protection and medical care. Immigration status can affect some civil or social entitlements, so seek legal advice about residence, benefits and longer term issues. Interpreters are often available during police or court procedures; ask for language support when you contact services.
- Emergency number 112 for immediate danger and medical emergencies.
- Local police station - report incidents and obtain a police report.
- Public prosecutor-s office (parket) - handles criminal investigations and prosecutions.
- Centres for General Welfare Work - CAW provides crisis support, counselling and shelter referrals in Flanders.
- Victim support services - organisations that assist victims with practical, legal and emotional support and help prepare complaints and court appearances.
- Local municipality social services - for housing, financial and social support options.
- Local bar association and legal aid offices - for a lawyer experienced in domestic violence, family law and criminal defence and to apply for subsidised legal assistance.
- Health services and hospitals - for medical care and certificates documenting injuries.
1. Prioritise safety. If you are in immediate danger call 112. Move to a safe place if possible. Tell someone you trust where you are and what happened.
2. Seek medical attention if needed and ask for a medical certificate documenting injuries.
3. Make a formal report to the police so there is an official record. Ask for a copy of the police report.
4. Contact a local victim support organisation or CAW for crisis assistance, shelter options and guided steps through the system.
5. Preserve evidence - photos, messages, witness names and any documentation. Keep copies in a secure place.
6. Consult a lawyer who has experience with domestic violence cases. Ask about legal aid if you cannot afford private counsel.
7. Discuss civil protections with your lawyer - exclusion from the home, contact bans, custody and maintenance measures - and consider parallel criminal complaints if appropriate.
8. Plan for practical needs - housing, finances, childcare and work - and use municipal social services for support.
9. Follow court orders and safety plans, and stay in contact with victim support services for ongoing assistance.
10. If you are uncertain where to start, call emergency services for immediate help or contact local victim support to be guided to the right local offices in Beersel.
