Best Domestic Violence Lawyers in Kalundborg

About Domestic Violence Law in Kalundborg, Denmark

Domestic violence in Denmark covers a range of harmful behaviors that occur within close or family relationships. It includes physical assault, threats, coercion, sexual violence, stalking, digital abuse, and psychological violence. Denmark treats these behaviors as criminal offenses. There is a specific offense for psychological violence in close relationships, and acts like assault, unlawful threats, and harassment are prosecuted under the Danish Penal Code. This legal framework applies in Kalundborg just as it does throughout Denmark.

Domestic violence is taken seriously by the police and the courts. Protective measures can be put in place quickly by the police if there is a risk to your safety. Victims are entitled to support, including access to shelters, emergency housing, and a court-appointed victim counsel who can guide them through police interviews and court proceedings. Children who are exposed to violence are also protected, and the municipality has a duty to act if a child is at risk.

While the term domestic violence is commonly used, Danish law focuses on the underlying crimes and on safety measures. This means that even if there is no single offense labeled domestic violence, the behavior can be investigated and punished, and protective orders can be issued to prevent further harm.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

A lawyer can be critical in safeguarding your rights and your safety. If you are a victim, a lawyer can help you request a restraining order, an exclusion order, or an emergency removal from the home, and can coordinate with the police to ensure these are enforced. A lawyer can also help you plan for immediate safety and longer term stability, including safe housing and privacy protections for your address and contact details.

If you are separating or divorcing, a lawyer can advise on property, finances, and parental responsibility. In cases involving children, a lawyer can help you present evidence of risk, request supervised contact where appropriate, and ensure that any temporary arrangements prioritize child safety.

If you have immigration concerns, such as a residence permit tied to a relationship, a lawyer can advise on rules that allow victims of violence to keep or obtain independent residence. If you have been injured or have suffered psychological harm, a lawyer can help you claim compensation through the Danish Victims Compensation Board and through the criminal case.

If you have been accused of domestic violence, you should seek legal counsel immediately. A defense lawyer can protect your rights during police questioning, advise you on contact restrictions, help you comply with protective orders, and present your version of events supported by evidence.

Local Laws Overview

Protective orders are available under the Danish Act on Restraining Orders, Exclusion Orders, and Removal from Home. The police can issue a restraining order that prohibits contact or approaches. They can impose an exclusion order that forbids the suspected perpetrator from being in specific areas, for example near a home, school, or workplace. In urgent situations, the police can remove a person from a shared home for a short period. Courts can confirm and extend these measures if the risk continues. Violation of these orders is a criminal offense and can lead to fines or imprisonment.

Criminal offenses commonly charged in domestic violence cases include physical assault, aggravated assault, threats, unlawful coercion, harassment or stalking, sexual assault, and psychological violence in close relationships. Penalties depend on the severity, the pattern of behavior, the vulnerability of the victim, and whether children were present.

Victims of certain violent and sexual offenses are entitled to a free court-appointed victim counsel. This lawyer assists during police interviews, court hearings, and compensation claims, and can act to protect your privacy, for example requesting closed doors or shielding of sensitive details when possible.

Kalundborg is within the Midt og Vestsjælland Police district. Criminal cases are heard at the local district court that covers Kalundborg. Family cases such as custody and visitation are handled by the Danish Family Court system, which begins in Familieretshuset and can be brought before the district court if needed. The municipality has obligations under the Social Services Act to provide support, including access to shelters and help for children who have witnessed violence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as domestic violence in Denmark?

Domestic violence includes physical assault, threats, coercion, sexual violence, stalking, controlling behavior, and psychological violence directed at a partner, former partner, family member, or someone in a similar close relationship. Repeated or systematic degrading behavior, surveillance, isolation, and economic control can be part of psychological violence. All of these can be investigated and prosecuted under Danish law.

How do I report domestic violence in Kalundborg?

Call 112 if you are in immediate danger. For non-emergency reporting and advice, call the police at 114 or visit your local police station. You can also speak with staff at a shelter who can help you contact the police. When reporting, provide as much detail as possible about what happened, any injuries, witnesses, and any messages or recordings. You can report even if the violence happened in the past, and you can ask for a victim counsel to assist you.

Can the police remove the abusive person from the home immediately?

Yes, if there is an urgent risk, the police can issue an emergency removal from the home for a short period. They can also impose a restraining order or exclusion order to prevent contact or approaches. A court can review and extend these measures if the risk persists. Breaching an order is a criminal offense.

How fast can I get a restraining order?

In urgent situations the police can issue a temporary order the same day. The order can later be reviewed and extended if needed. You do not need to leave your home to obtain a restraining or exclusion order, and seeking an order does not require you to file for divorce first.

Will I have to pay for a lawyer as a victim?

Victims of certain violent and sexual crimes can receive a free court-appointed victim counsel who supports you during the police investigation and any court case. In related civil matters, such as divorce or custody, legal aid or fee coverage may be available depending on your income and the merits of the case. Ask your lawyer or the court about eligibility for legal aid.

What happens with my children and custody if there is domestic violence?

Child safety is the first priority. The municipality must act if a child is at risk. In parental cases, evidence of violence is relevant to decisions about custody, residence, and contact. You can request supervised contact or a temporary suspension of contact if there is a safety risk. Familieretshuset and the court can make temporary and long term arrangements based on risk assessments and the child’s best interests.

Can I stay at a shelter in or near Kalundborg and how does it work?

Yes, access to shelters is available. Women can seek confidential admission to a crisis center under the Social Services Act. Men can access specialized centers and general shelters. Staff provide safety planning, legal information, and help with contacting the police and the municipality. Stays are typically free for the resident, and the municipality coordinates follow up support when you leave the shelter.

Can I get compensation for injuries or losses?

Yes, you may be eligible for state compensation through the Danish Victims Compensation Board for physical and psychological injuries, lost earnings, and certain expenses. You can also make a compensation claim in the criminal case. Your victim counsel can prepare and file the claim and help gather evidence, such as medical records and receipts.

I am not a Danish citizen. Will reporting affect my residence permit?

If your residence permit depends on your relationship, there are rules that allow you to keep or obtain an independent permit if the relationship ends due to violence. Gather documentation of the violence and seek legal advice promptly. Reporting violence and seeking protection do not count against you, and you should not stay in an unsafe situation because of immigration concerns.

What if I have been falsely accused of domestic violence?

Do not contact the accuser. Comply with any police orders. Immediately seek a defense lawyer before speaking with the police. Preserve any evidence that supports your account, such as messages or location data, and provide a list of potential witnesses. A lawyer can help ensure that conditions or orders are proportionate and can challenge unfounded allegations in court.

Additional Resources

Emergency services. Call 112 if you are in immediate danger.

Police non-emergency. Call 114 to report a crime, request advice, or ask about protective orders in the Midt og Vestsjælland Police district.

National domestic violence hotline. Lev Uden Vold can be reached at 1888 for confidential support and guidance, including referral to a nearby shelter.

Victim support. Offerrådgivningen i Danmark provides free emotional support and practical guidance at 116 006.

Kalundborg Municipality. Contact Social Services or Citizen Service for help with shelters, emergency housing, address protection, and support for children.

Courts and family system. Familieretshuset handles parental responsibility cases and can arrange temporary measures. The local district court that covers Kalundborg hears criminal and family cases that require a court decision.

Victims compensation. The Danish Victims Compensation Board, Erstatningsnævnet, processes claims for injuries arising from violent crime. Your victim counsel or lawyer can help you apply.

Next Steps

Prioritize safety. If you fear for your safety or your children’s safety, call 112 or go to a safe place such as a shelter or a trusted friend. Consider address and phone confidentiality and change passwords on devices and accounts.

Contact the police. Report the violence by calling 114 or by attending the local station. Ask for a restraining order, exclusion order, or emergency removal from the home if needed. Request a court-appointed victim counsel as early as possible.

Preserve evidence. Save messages, call logs, emails, social media posts, and voicemails. Photograph injuries and damaged property. Seek medical attention and ask for copies of medical records. Keep a dated log of incidents and witnesses.

Engage legal help. Speak with a lawyer experienced in domestic violence cases in Kalundborg. They can coordinate with the police, apply for protective orders, represent you in criminal and family proceedings, and pursue compensation. If cost is a concern, ask about free victim counsel and legal aid options.

Protect children. Inform the municipality or your lawyer if children have witnessed violence. Ask about supervised contact and safety plans for handovers. Make the school or daycare aware of any exclusion orders that affect pick up and drop off.

Plan for stability. Work with the municipality and shelter staff on housing, financial support, and counseling. Update important documents and consider changing locks and securing devices. If you have immigration concerns, seek timely advice on independent residence options.

This guide is general information. Laws and procedures can change, and individual circumstances differ. For tailored advice, consult a qualified lawyer in Kalundborg who handles domestic violence, criminal law, and family law.