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About Domestic Violence Law in Marijampolė, Republic of Lithuania

Domestic violence in the Republic of Lithuania is recognized as a serious crime and a violation of human rights. The Law on Protection Against Domestic Violence, together with the Criminal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure, provides a framework for immediate protection, investigation, and prosecution. Domestic violence includes physical, psychological, sexual, and economic abuse that occurs between family members, partners, former partners, or persons living in the same household. In Marijampolė, as elsewhere in Lithuania, the police and social services are obligated to act promptly when domestic violence is suspected, prioritizing victim safety and the prevention of further harm.

Authorities can take urgent protective measures, including removing an alleged abuser from the shared home and restricting contact. A pre-trial investigation can be started by the police without a formal complaint from the victim when there are signs of a crime. Victims have the right to specialized assistance, legal aid, medical care, and protection throughout the process. Local institutions in Marijampolė work together to ensure that victims receive immediate support and long-term assistance to rebuild safety and stability.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Domestic violence cases can involve both criminal and civil proceedings. A lawyer helps you understand your rights, assess risks, and choose the safest legal strategy. A lawyer can request protective measures from the court, help you navigate police procedures, and represent you in hearings or trial.

You may need a lawyer if you seek a protection order, need to secure custody or visitation arrangements that prioritize child safety, want to divide property or end a marriage, or require help documenting injuries and financial losses for compensation. Legal representation is also important if you have been accused of domestic violence and need to understand your defense rights and obligations.

Survivors often face practical challenges such as housing, immigration status, employment, or access to children. A lawyer can coordinate with social workers, specialized assistance centers, and the police to create a comprehensive plan that protects you, preserves evidence, and minimizes further harm.

Local Laws Overview

Definition of domestic violence: Lithuanian law defines domestic violence broadly to cover physical injuries, threats, stalking, coercion, sexual violence, psychological intimidation, and economic control within family or close relationships, including former spouses or partners and persons sharing a household.

Immediate police response: Police in Marijampolė must respond to reports of domestic violence, assess risk, secure the scene, and, where necessary, separate the parties. If there are signs of a criminal offense, police initiate a pre-trial investigation on their own initiative.

Protective measures: Authorities can seek urgent protection for victims. Courts can order the alleged aggressor to leave the home, prohibit approaching or contacting the victim, and impose other tailored restrictions. Temporary measures can be imposed quickly and may be extended by the court if risk persists.

Criminal accountability: The Criminal Code provides penalties for offenses commonly arising in domestic violence cases, such as bodily injury, unlawful threat, stalking, sexual assault, deprivation of liberty, and property damage. Sanctions range from fines and community service to imprisonment, depending on severity and prior history.

Victims rights and support: Victims have the right to information, participation in proceedings, protection of privacy, interpretation and translation where needed, medical and psychological assistance, and specialized support services. Victims may claim compensation for material and non-material damage in criminal or civil proceedings.

Child protection: If children are present or affected, the State Child Rights Protection and Adoption Service is notified. Safety planning, temporary care arrangements, and supervised contact can be put in place to protect children from harm. Courts consider domestic violence when deciding custody and visitation.

Evidence and documentation: Police records, medical reports, photos, messages, witness statements, and prior reports can all be used as evidence. A medical examination soon after an incident is helpful but not required to report. Lack of visible injuries does not prevent protective measures.

Legal aid: Primary legal aid is provided by municipalities. Secondary legal aid, including representation in court, may be available through the State Guaranteed Legal Aid Service based on income, vulnerability, and case specifics. Victims of violence are prioritized for timely assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as domestic violence in Marijampolė

Domestic violence covers physical harm, threats, coercion, stalking, sexual abuse, and controlling or economically abusive behavior within family or intimate relationships, including former spouses or partners and persons sharing a household. One serious incident or a pattern of behavior can qualify.

Do I need to file a complaint for the police to act

No. If police observe signs of a crime, they must open a pre-trial investigation even without a formal complaint. Your statement is important, but the case does not depend solely on your initiative.

How fast can I get protection

Protective measures can be arranged urgently. Police can take immediate steps to separate parties and secure safety. A court can issue a protection order quickly, restricting contact and requiring the alleged aggressor to leave the home if necessary.

Will the abuser be removed from our home

Yes, if risk to your safety is identified. Courts can order the alleged aggressor to leave and stay away from your residence and other places you frequent. Police enforce these measures.

What if I do not have visible injuries

You can still report. Threats, psychological abuse, stalking, and economic control are recognized forms of domestic violence. Provide any messages, recordings, witness details, or other documentation that shows what happened.

Will my children be taken away if I report

Reporting aims to protect you and your children. Child protection authorities may assess the situation to ensure safety. The focus is on removing risk, which can include restrictions on the alleged abuser rather than separation from the non-abusive parent.

Can I get free legal help

You may qualify for free or subsidized legal aid through the State Guaranteed Legal Aid system, depending on income, vulnerability, and the nature of the case. Municipal primary legal aid is also available for basic advice and document preparation.

What happens if the abuser violates the protection order

Violations are taken seriously. Call the police immediately. Breaching a court order can result in detention, additional restrictions, and criminal liability.

Do I have to face the abuser in court

Courts can arrange protective measures during proceedings, such as separate waiting areas, remote testimony, or shielding arrangements. Inform your lawyer and the court about safety concerns in advance.

I am not a Lithuanian citizen. Do I have the same protections

Yes. All persons in Lithuania, regardless of citizenship or residence status, are protected by domestic violence laws and can access police assistance, protection orders, medical care, and legal support.

Additional Resources

Marijampolė County Police Headquarters. Call the general emergency number 112 for immediate help or to report an incident.

Specialized Assistance Center in Marijampolė County. Specialized complex assistance for victims of domestic violence, including safety planning, psychological support, and advocacy.

State Guaranteed Legal Aid Service. Provides secondary legal aid and representation for eligible persons, with prioritization for victims of violence.

Marijampolė Municipality Primary Legal Aid. Offers initial legal advice, information, and help with applications for further legal aid.

State Child Rights Protection and Adoption Service. Ensures child safety, coordinates measures to protect minors affected by domestic violence.

Crisis centers and shelters in Marijampolė region. Provide safe accommodation, counseling, and practical support for victims and their children.

Healthcare providers in Marijampolė. Can document injuries, provide treatment, and create medical records that support your case.

Next Steps

If you are in immediate danger, call 112. Prioritize your safety and the safety of any children. If possible, move to a safe place and avoid confrontation.

Seek medical attention even for minor injuries. Ask for documentation of all findings. Keep copies of any medical records, police reports, and protection orders.

Preserve evidence. Save messages, emails, call logs, photos, and witness contacts. Do not delete communications, even if they are distressing.

Contact a Specialized Assistance Center in Marijampolė County for safety planning and support. They can help coordinate with police, social services, and lawyers.

Consult a lawyer experienced in domestic violence. Discuss protection orders, child custody, housing, and the criminal process. Ask about eligibility for State Guaranteed Legal Aid and apply promptly.

Consider longer term protections. Review options for divorce or separation, child custody and support, property division, and compensation for damages. Your lawyer can align these steps with ongoing criminal proceedings.

Keep a timeline of incidents and interactions with authorities. Store documents securely, including copies of identification, important contracts, and financial records.

Reach out to trusted friends, relatives, or community organizations for practical help with childcare, transport, and temporary accommodation while legal measures are put in place.

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Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.