Best Domestic Violence Lawyers in Elliniko

About Domestic Violence Law in Elliniko, Greece

Domestic violence is treated in Greece as a serious public order and criminal matter. In Elliniko - as elsewhere in Greece - victims can expect a combination of criminal law enforcement, civil measures and social services aimed at immediate protection and longer-term recovery. Greek legislation and practice address physical violence, sexual violence, psychological and emotional abuse, economic control and stalking. Local public bodies - including the Hellenic Police, the public prosecutor and municipal social services - work together with specialist non-governmental organisations to provide protection, shelter and counselling.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

A lawyer can help you understand and navigate the legal options available, protect your rights and represent you in criminal and civil procedures. Common situations where legal help is advisable include:

- Seeking emergency protection orders or civil injunctions to keep an abuser away or remove them from the shared home.

- Filing criminal complaints and working with the prosecutor and police to ensure investigations proceed effectively.

- Pursuing family law matters that often accompany domestic violence - for example divorce, child custody and visitation, child support and property division.

- Claiming compensation for bodily harm or emotional distress.

- Advising on immigration-related issues when the victim or abuser is a non-Greek national, including residence permits and legal status linked to victimisation.

- Accessing legal aid if you cannot afford a private lawyer and preparing documentation and evidence for court.

Local Laws Overview

Key aspects of the legal framework that are particularly relevant in Elliniko include:

- Criminal prosecution - Acts of violence, sexual offences, threats, coercion and stalking are prosecuted under the Greek Penal Code and related criminal statutes. Victims can file criminal complaints with the police or prosecutor, who may initiate an investigation.

- Protection measures - Courts and prosecutors can issue provisional protection or restraining orders to prevent contact between the victim and alleged perpetrator. Measures can include orders to stay away from the victim, bans on approaching specific locations and, in some cases, temporary removal of the perpetrator from the shared residence.

- Civil remedies - Victims may seek divorce, legal separation and decisions on child custody and support. Greek family law allows courts to take the history of violence into account when deciding custody and visitation arrangements.

- Emergency response - The Hellenic Police are responsible for immediate intervention. Medical reports and forensic examinations are important for evidence collection.

- Support services - Municipal social services, state-funded programmes and NGOs provide shelters, counselling, psychological support and referrals. Public legal aid may be available for qualifying victims.

- International and European standards - Greece implements obligations under international instruments aimed at preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence, which influence national law and practice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is domestic violence a criminal offence in Greece?

Yes. Acts such as physical assault, sexual violence, threats, coercion and stalking can be prosecuted under the Penal Code. Victims can report offences to the police or the public prosecutor, who can open an investigation and press charges.

How do I get immediate protection if I am in danger?

If you are in immediate danger, call the local police. Police can intervene, remove the aggressor from the scene and refer you to emergency services. You can also ask the prosecutor or court for a protection or restraining order - your lawyer or a social worker can help you apply quickly.

Can the abuser be removed from our shared home?

Court or prosecutorial orders can lead to the temporary exclusion of the alleged perpetrator from the shared residence in appropriate cases. The specific steps and conditions depend on the severity of the violence and the evidence presented. A lawyer can help you request this remedy and explain what proof the court expects.

What evidence should I collect?

Keep records of injuries, medical reports, photographs, threatening messages, emails, call logs and witness information. File a medical report at a hospital or clinic if injured - this is important documentary evidence. Preserve anything that documents the pattern of behaviour, and provide copies to your lawyer.

Will reporting affect child custody or visitation?

Allegations of domestic violence are highly relevant to custody and visitation decisions. Courts prioritise the child s safety and welfare. Evidence of violence may lead the court to limit or supervise contact, or to allocate primary custody to the non-abusive parent. Discuss options with your lawyer to ensure the child s protection during proceedings.

I am a foreign national - will my immigration status be affected if I report abuse?

Reporting violence should not be discouraged by immigration concerns. Greek law and international standards provide protections for victims, including specific provisions in some cases for third-country nationals who are victims of domestic violence. Seek legal advice about your particular immigration situation and whether you are eligible for special permits or protections.

Can I press charges anonymously?

Criminal proceedings are public in principle, but victims have options to protect their privacy during investigations and trials. You should discuss confidentiality measures with your lawyer and law enforcement. In some urgent situations, prosecutors can take action even before the victim files a formal complaint.

What civil remedies are available besides protection orders?

Victims may pursue divorce or legal separation, claim child custody and support, seek compensation for physical and psychological harm and request partition of jointly held property. Civil courts can also enforce protection measures and order restitution in appropriate cases.

How long do protection orders last?

The duration of a protection order depends on the type of measure and the court s decision. Emergency or provisional measures may be temporary, while longer-term injunctions can remain in force for a period set by the court and can be renewed if danger persists. Your lawyer can explain the expected timelines and how to apply for extensions.

What if the police do not respond or I feel my complaint is not taken seriously?

If you are not satisfied with the police response, you can seek to have your complaint brought before the public prosecutor. Document all interactions, obtain medical reports if applicable and ask a lawyer or a social worker to assist. You may also contact municipal social services, victim support organisations or the national human rights institutions for help and oversight.

Additional Resources

If you need help, consider contacting the following types of resources in Elliniko and the wider Attica region - they can assist with safety, legal referrals and social support:

- Hellenic Police - local station for emergency intervention and to file criminal complaints.

- Public Prosecutor s Office - oversees criminal investigations and can issue urgent protection measures.

- Municipal Social Services of Elliniko-Argyroupoli - local social workers can advise on shelters, counselling and family support.

- National social welfare services and state-run victim support programmes - for emergency shelter and placement.

- Public Legal Aid services - for free or reduced-cost legal assistance if you meet eligibility criteria.

- Greek Ombudsman - for complaints about public authorities and systemic failures in support services.

- Specialist domestic violence NGOs and counselling centres - for psychological support, shelter, and legal referrals. Many NGOs specialise in assisting women, children and migrants.

- Hospitals and forensic medical services - for medical treatment and evidence documentation after incidents of violence.

Next Steps

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence in Elliniko, consider taking the following steps:

- Prioritise immediate safety - if you are in danger, call the police or go to a safe place right away.

- Seek medical attention - get records of any injuries and keep all medical documentation.

- Preserve evidence - keep messages, recordings, photos and names of witnesses in a safe place.

- Contact municipal social services or a trusted NGO for emergency shelter, counselling and practical help.

- Consider reporting the abuse to the police or prosecutor - a lawyer or social worker can assist you in preparing the complaint.

- Consult a lawyer experienced in domestic violence and family law - they can explain criminal and civil options, protection orders, and immigration-related issues.

- Ask about legal aid if you cannot afford private representation.

- Make a safety plan - identify safe people, locations and steps to take if the situation escalates, and keep important documents accessible.

Remember - you do not need to face this alone. Local authorities and specialised services exist to protect victims and help you navigate the legal process. Seeking professional legal advice early will help you understand your rights and the remedies available in Elliniko.