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Free Guide to Hiring a Family Lawyer
Domestic violence in Portugal is a crime defined and punished at the national level, and the rules apply equally in Gondomar. It covers physical, psychological, sexual, and economic abuse, threats, coercion, stalking, and control within intimate, family, or cohabitation relationships, including former partners and people who share a household. It is classified as a public crime, which means authorities must investigate once they become aware of the situation, even if a victim does not file or later tries to withdraw a complaint.
Portuguese law prioritizes victim safety. Police can intervene urgently, courts can impose protection measures quickly, and a nationwide support network provides shelters, counseling, and legal guidance. Victims have specific rights to information, protection, legal aid, and compensation. In Gondomar, cases are handled by local police forces and the courts within the Porto judicial district, with the Public Prosecutor directing the investigation.
A lawyer can help you understand your rights, obtain urgent protection, and navigate criminal and family law processes. Common situations that call for legal assistance include requesting restraining orders and emergency barring orders from the home, filing a criminal complaint and supporting the investigation, claiming compensation for damages in the criminal case, and pursuing divorce, separation, or civil protection orders related to housing, property, and spousal support.
When children are involved, a lawyer can seek measures that protect them, address parental responsibilities and visitation in a way that prioritizes safety, and work with child protection authorities. If you are a foreign national, legal counsel can clarify how to access protection regardless of immigration status and how the proceedings may affect residence permits. If you have been accused of domestic violence, a defense lawyer is essential to explain your rights, challenge unlawful evidence, and respond to bail and restraining conditions.
Legal professionals also coordinate with support services, gather and preserve evidence, prepare you for statements and court hearings, and apply for means-tested legal aid if you cannot afford a lawyer.
Key criminal rule - Article 152 of the Portuguese Penal Code defines domestic violence. The basic crime is punishable by imprisonment, with higher penalties when aggravating factors exist such as serious injury, use of weapons, or when the victim is a child, pregnant, elderly, or especially vulnerable. Related crimes may also apply, such as threats, stalking, sexual offenses, child endangerment, and qualified homicide.
Victim protection - Law 112-2009 sets the regime for preventing domestic violence and protecting victims. Courts can order no-contact commands, geographic exclusion zones, removal from the shared home, and electronic monitoring to enforce distance. Police can take urgent protective actions that are quickly reviewed by a judge. Victims can request confidentiality of address and other data when there is a risk. Law 130-2015 establishes the Victim Statute, which includes rights to information, participation, protection, and support services.
Reporting and investigation - Because domestic violence is a public crime, health professionals, educators, and authorities have a duty to report suspected cases. You can report to the police, Public Prosecutor, courts, or through helplines. The Public Prosecutor directs the investigation with police support. Restrictive measures can be set early in the process to protect the victim while the case proceeds.
Compensation and support - Victims can claim civil damages in the criminal case for medical costs, lost income, and moral damages. In some situations, State compensation may be available under national rules for violent crime and domestic violence, subject to eligibility. The national network provides shelters and specialized services, including psychological, social, and legal support.
Children and family measures - If children are at risk, the Commission for the Protection of Children and Young People in Gondomar can intervene, and family courts can swiftly impose measures to protect children. Domestic violence is taken into account when deciding parental responsibilities and visitation to ensure safety.
Legal aid - People with low income can apply for State-funded legal aid through Social Security. This can cover lawyer fees, court costs, and installment plans, depending on your financial situation.
Domestic violence includes physical assaults, insults and humiliation, threats and intimidation, stalking, sexual coercion, financial control, damage to property, and restrictions on freedom such as isolating someone from friends and family. It applies to current or former spouses or partners, people who have a child together, and people who live or have lived in the same household, including non intimate family members.
No. Domestic violence is a public crime. Once authorities are informed, the Public Prosecutor must investigate and can proceed even if a victim does not file a complaint or later tries to withdraw it.
In an emergency, call 112. You can also go to a local PSP or GNR police station, contact the Public Prosecutor, tell a health professional, or use national helplines. Provide as much detail as possible about incidents, injuries, witnesses, and threats. If you are in immediate danger, prioritize getting to a safe place first.
Yes. Police and courts can impose urgent protective measures such as no-contact orders, removal from the home, and geographic exclusion zones. Electronic monitoring can be used to enforce distance in appropriate cases. These measures can be decided quickly when there is risk.
If there is a risk to your safety, authorities can request an emergency barring order from the home, subject to rapid judicial confirmation. The court can also prohibit the aggressor from approaching you or certain places. Each case is assessed on its facts and risk level.
Keep medical reports, photographs of injuries and property damage, threatening messages or emails, call logs, witness contacts, and a dated diary of incidents. Seek medical attention promptly and tell the clinician what happened so it is recorded. A lawyer can help you collect and present evidence effectively.
Court decisions on parental responsibilities must prioritize the safety and best interests of the child. Evidence of domestic violence can lead to supervised visitation, suspension or restriction of contact, and safety planning for exchanges. Child protection authorities can also adopt protective measures when necessary.
Yes. Protection and support services are available regardless of immigration status. You can report to police and seek protective orders. Speak with a lawyer about how the case may affect residence rights and how to secure documentation and services safely.
You may claim civil damages in the criminal case. Depending on the circumstances and eligibility, State compensation for victims of violent crime and domestic violence may be available. Support organizations can also help with shelter, basic needs, and access to social benefits. A lawyer can explain options and file the necessary requests.
Get legal representation immediately. Comply with lawful protective measures, avoid any contact with the complainant, and gather exculpatory evidence such as messages, alibis, and witnesses. Your lawyer can challenge unsupported allegations, seek modification of restrictive measures, and ensure your rights are respected throughout the investigation.
Emergency services - Call 112 if you or someone else is in immediate danger.
National support line for domestic violence - 800 202 148. This is a free, confidential helpline that can guide you to local services and shelters.
APAV - Associação Portuguesa de Apoio à Vítima - Victim support helpline 116 006. Provides information, emotional support, and help navigating the legal system.
Local police in Gondomar - PSP and GNR stations can take reports, conduct risk assessments, and request urgent protective measures.
Public Prosecutor - Ministério Público handles domestic violence prosecutions and can apply to the court for protective measures.
Courts in the Porto district - Criminal, family, and juvenile courts handle protective orders, criminal cases, and parental responsibility decisions affecting Gondomar residents.
CPCJ Gondomar - Commission for the Protection of Children and Young People in Gondomar. Receives reports and acts to protect children at risk.
CIG - Commission for Citizenship and Gender Equality. Coordinates the national network supporting victims of domestic violence, including shelters and specialized services.
Social Security - Segurança Social can process legal aid applications for those who cannot afford a lawyer and connect you with social supports.
Portuguese Bar Association - Ordem dos Advogados can help you find a lawyer with experience in domestic violence, criminal defense, and family law.
Prioritize safety. If you are in danger, call 112 or go to a safe place such as a police station, hospital, or trusted location. Consider a safety plan that includes emergency contacts, a packed essentials bag, and secure storage of important documents.
Document the abuse. Seek medical care and ask for a detailed report. Save messages, take photos of injuries and damage, and note dates, times, and witnesses. Do not delete evidence.
Report the incident. You can report to the police, the Public Prosecutor, or a hospital. Even if you are unsure about pursuing a case, reporting can activate protection measures and support services.
Consult a lawyer. Ask about urgent protection orders, interaction with child protection authorities, options for divorce or separation, and how to claim compensation. If you cannot afford a lawyer, apply for legal aid through Social Security.
Engage support services. Call the national helpline 800 202 148 or APAV 116 006 for guidance, shelter options, counseling, and practical assistance. If children are involved, inform the school or child care provider about safety concerns as advised by your lawyer.
Prepare for the legal process. Expect interviews with police, possible court hearings on protective measures, and updates from the Public Prosecutor. Follow all court orders, keep your contact information current with authorities, and continue to collect relevant evidence.
This guide is informational and not a substitute for tailored legal advice. For specific guidance about domestic violence in Gondomar, speak with a qualified lawyer who can act quickly to protect your rights and safety.
