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Free Guide to Hiring a Family Lawyer
Domestic violence in Forssa is treated under Finnish national law and local public services. There is no separate criminal code just for domestic violence - acts such as assault, sexual offences, threats, harassment and stalking are prosecuted under the Finnish Penal Code. Local police, prosecutors and courts handle criminal cases, while municipal social services, child protection and health services handle protective and welfare measures. Victims can also access shelters, victim support and legal assistance. If you are in immediate danger, call emergency services - 112.
Domestic violence often involves overlapping criminal, family and civil issues. A lawyer can help you by:
- Explaining the legal process in criminal cases, including how charges are brought and what evidence is needed.
- Helping you apply for protective measures such as restraining orders or emergency removal from a shared home.
- Advising on family-law matters that commonly arise with violence, for example separation, divorce, child custody - including temporary custody and visitation arrangements.
- Assisting with civil remedies like compensation claims for injuries, property damage or loss of income.
- Representing you in court and at hearings, and negotiating with prosecutors or the other party to protect your interests and safety.
- Guiding you through applications for state-supported legal aid, victim compensation and social benefits.
Key legal points relevant in Forssa and Finland generally include:
- Criminal offences: Domestic violence is prosecuted under standard criminal offences such as assault (pahoinpitely), aggravated assault, sexual offences and threats. The prosecutor decides whether to bring charges after police investigate.
- Immediate police powers: Police may intervene, detain a suspect, and take emergency measures to secure the safety of a victim. In some situations police can remove a person from a shared home for a limited time to prevent further harm.
- Restraining orders and prohibition of contact: Courts and prosecutors can seek restrictions on contact and proximity between the perpetrator and the victim. These measures aim to prevent harassment and further violence.
- Family law measures: In cases involving children, municipal child protection authorities (lastensuojelu) can intervene. Family courts address custody, visitation and maintenance questions during or after separation.
- Victim compensation and support: Victims may be eligible for state compensation for personal injury caused by a crime and for other support services provided by municipalities and national victim support organisations.
- Legal aid: Finland provides a legal aid system for people with limited means. A lawyer can advise whether you qualify and help you apply for a legal aid certificate.
Domestic violence covers violent or abusive behaviour between people who are or have been in an intimate or family relationship. This can include physical assault, sexual violence, threats, intimidation, stalking, psychological abuse, controlling behaviour and serious neglect of children. The same acts are prosecuted under general criminal offences when they occur within a domestic context.
If you are in immediate danger call emergency services - 112. For non-emergencies you can contact the local police station to make a report in person or by phone. Police will record the incident, may take statements, and can begin an investigation. If you are unsure how to proceed, victim support organisations and municipal social services can assist you in contacting the police.
Yes - there are measures intended to protect victims quickly. Police can take emergency steps at the scene. Prosecutors and courts can seek orders that prohibit the offender from approaching you or contacting you. The exact procedure and options depend on the circumstances, but a lawyer or victim support worker can help you request urgent protection.
Police action depends on the seriousness of the situation, available evidence and immediate risk. In many cases where there is clear danger, visible injury or ongoing threats, police can detain or remove a suspect. When a crime is reported, police investigate and the prosecutor decides whether to press charges.
Safely collect and preserve evidence if you can without putting yourself at risk. Helpful evidence includes medical reports and photographs of injuries, threatening messages or emails, call logs, witness contacts, and any police reports. Keep a dated written record of incidents. Do not attempt to confront the alleged perpetrator to gather evidence.
If children are involved, their safety is the priority. Municipal child protection services may assess the situation and can take measures ranging from increased support to emergency placements if necessary. Family courts will consider domestic violence when deciding temporary and permanent custody and visitation arrangements. A lawyer can help present safety-focused proposals to the court.
Victims may be eligible for state compensation for personal injuries caused by a crime. Additionally, in civil proceedings you may seek damages from the perpetrator for physical and psychological harm or property loss. Social services and victim support organisations can help you understand and apply for these remedies.
Lawyer fees vary. If you have limited income or assets you may qualify for legal aid (oikeusapu), which can cover part or all of private lawyer fees. In some cases legal aid is granted for representation in criminal proceedings and family law disputes. Ask a lawyer or the local legal aid office about eligibility and the application process.
Support services exist for all victims regardless of gender. There are women-specific shelters and helplines, as well as services aimed at male victims. If you are a foreign national or do not speak Finnish or Swedish, police and social services can arrange interpreters and some organisations specialise in helping migrants. If your residency status is tied to the abuser, seek immediate legal advice about your immigration options and safety planning.
Reporting to police initiates a criminal investigation which is separate from family court processes. Evidence and findings from a criminal case can be relevant in family court decisions about custody and visitation. A lawyer can coordinate criminal and family-law responses, advise on timing of complaints and on how statements may be used in different proceedings.
Resources you can contact or seek information from include:
- Local police station and emergency services - for immediate danger call 112.
- Forssa municipal social services - for welfare, child protection and emergency housing assistance.
- Victim Support Finland (Rikosuhripäivystys) - for counselling and practical support for victims of crime.
- Local shelters and crisis centres - often called turvakoti or women's shelters - for safe accommodation.
- Naisten Linja - national helpline and chat support for women experiencing violence.
- Local district court for Forssa area - for family law proceedings and protective orders.
- Prosecutor's office - for questions about criminal charges and procedure.
- Legal aid offices - to check eligibility for a legal aid certificate.
- Migration and immigrant support organisations and the Finnish Immigration Service for issues affecting residence status.
1. If you are in immediate danger, call emergency services - 112.
2. Get medical attention if needed and keep records of injuries and treatment.
3. Contact the police to make a report. Ask how to obtain a copy of the police report for legal and support services.
4. Reach out to local victim support, municipal social services or a crisis centre for practical help and safety planning.
5. Preserve evidence - keep records, messages and photographs in a safe place, and note witnesses.
6. Consult a lawyer experienced in domestic violence, criminal law or family law. If you cannot afford private counsel, apply for legal aid or ask victim support organisations for referrals.
7. If children are involved, inform child protection services so they can assess and act to protect the children.
8. Consider a safety plan that covers where to go, how to get there, and who to contact in an emergency. Review options for protective orders and temporary housing.
9. Ask about victim compensation and social benefits you may be eligible for to cover medical costs, lost income or relocation expenses.
10. Keep copies of all documents and keep your support network informed. If you change your mind about reporting or legal steps, you can still seek help and change your course with professional assistance.
