Best Domestic Violence Lawyers in Melissia

About Domestic Violence Law in Melissia, Greece

Domestic violence is recognized in Greece as a serious criminal and social problem. If you live in Melissia - a suburb within the Municipality of Penteli in the Attica region - the same national laws and protections that apply across Greece cover you. Greece has implemented international standards related to gender-based and domestic violence and has mechanisms at police stations, prosecutors offices and courts to provide urgent protection, initiate criminal prosecution and arrange civil remedies. Local municipal social services and non-governmental organizations also provide support services such as counseling, temporary housing and referrals to legal help.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Domestic violence cases commonly involve overlapping criminal and family-law issues that are legally and emotionally complex. You may need a lawyer if any of the following apply:

• You want to file a criminal complaint or need guidance about pressing charges - a lawyer can explain how the police and public prosecutor handle the case and what to expect.
• You need an urgent protective order or a court order removing the alleged abuser from your home - lawyers know the fastest procedures and evidentiary needs.
• Child custody, visitation, or parental rights are at stake - family-law representation helps protect your and your children’s interests.
• You need emergency financial relief, support for housing, or temporary alimony - a lawyer can request provisional measures from the court.
• Cross-border or immigration issues are involved - foreign nationals may have special legal concerns about residency, asylum, or cooperation with criminal proceedings.
• You are considering divorce and want to understand grounds, timelines and how abuse affects property division and custody.
• You want to collect and preserve evidence properly so the criminal case or family court matter is stronger.
• You qualify for legal aid or need a lawyer experienced in victim representation - an attorney can help secure free or reduced-cost services.

Local Laws Overview

The following points summarize the main legal features that matter in domestic violence matters in Melissia and elsewhere in Greece:

• Criminal law - Acts such as physical assault, threats, sexual violence, stalking, and serious psychological abuse can be prosecuted under the Greek criminal code. Prosecution is typically handled by the public prosecutor following a police report.
• Protective measures - Courts can issue restraining orders and other protective measures. In urgent situations, police or prosecutors may request immediate measures to protect a victim and any children, including directing the alleged abuser to stay away from the victim and the family home.
• Family law remedies - In family courts, victims can request temporary custody, visitation restrictions, orders for child support and temporary maintenance, and emergency spousal support while divorce or separation proceedings are pending.
• Evidence and documentation - Medical reports, police reports, photographs, witness statements, electronic communications and any emergency-room records are important. Properly preserved evidence strengthens both criminal and civil cases.
• Child protection - When children are involved, child welfare authorities and family courts prioritize the child’s safety. Reports of child abuse will trigger child protection procedures and may lead to separate interventions.
• International and EU standards - Greek law has been updated to conform with international instruments and EU directives aimed at preventing and responding to gender-based violence. This framework helps secure victim protection and coordinated responses.
• Special procedures for foreigners - Foreign nationals who are victims have access to protection and can seek legal and social support. Immigration or residency questions may require specialized legal advice.
• Support services - Municipal social services, national agencies and NGOs provide shelters, psychosocial support, and referrals to legal aid services.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as domestic violence under Greek law?

Domestic violence includes physical assault, sexual abuse, threats, stalking, severe psychological or emotional abuse and economic control when those acts occur in a familial or intimate relationship. Abuse can be criminally prosecutable and also grounds for family-court relief such as protection orders and custody decisions.

How do I report domestic violence in Melissia?

You can report an incident to your local police station - the Hellenic Police handle domestic violence complaints - or go directly to the public prosecutor. Municipal social services can also advise and assist with making reports and securing immediate help. If you are in immediate danger, call the emergency services.

Can the police remove the alleged abuser from our home?

Yes - in urgent situations police and prosecutors can take immediate steps to protect victims, which may include removing an alleged abuser from the shared residence or ordering them to stay away. Courts can also issue exclusion or restraining orders. You should inform the police about any immediate danger and request that protective measures be taken.

How do I get a restraining order or protection order?

Restraining or protection orders are usually requested through the police and public prosecutor or directly from a family or criminal court. A lawyer can prepare the necessary documents, advise on the evidence required and represent you during hearings. Emergency orders can sometimes be obtained faster when prosecutors or police intervene.

What kind of evidence should I collect?

Keep any medical records, photographs of injuries, police reports, threatening messages or emails, call logs, witness contact details and any records of abuse. Seek medical attention promptly - medical reports are strong evidence. Preserve devices and electronic messages without altering them and provide copies to your lawyer or the authorities.

Will reporting affect my immigration status if I am a foreign national?

Being a victim of domestic violence should not automatically result in negative immigration consequences. In many cases victims have access to specific protections or can obtain support from NGOs that assist foreigners. Because immigration issues are complex, seek legal advice from a lawyer experienced with immigration and victim-protection matters.

Will I have to testify in court?

Possibly. If criminal charges are brought, you may be asked to give a statement to the prosecutor and to testify at trial. In family-court proceedings you will typically participate in hearings. Courts and prosecutors can use measures to protect victims during testimony - for example separate waiting areas, limits on direct contact with the alleged abuser, or testimony by video in some circumstances. Discuss options with your lawyer and the prosecutor.

Can domestic violence affect divorce and child custody decisions?

Yes. Evidence of domestic violence can influence court decisions on custody, visitation, spousal support and the division of assets. Courts consider the safety and welfare of children and may limit or supervise contact between an abusive parent and children. A lawyer can help raise relevant evidence and request protective orders during divorce or custody proceedings.

Are there shelters or emergency housing options locally?

Yes. There are public and NGO-run shelters and emergency accommodation available to victims of domestic violence in Greece. Municipal social services can make referrals and arrange temporary housing in urgent cases. Contact local social services as soon as possible for help locating safe accommodation.

Where can I get legal aid or pro bono legal help?

If you cannot afford a private lawyer, legal aid options may be available through the local Bar Association, state-funded legal aid programs, or NGOs that specialize in supporting victims of domestic violence. A municipal social services office can provide information and referrals to organizations that assist with legal representation and practical support.

Additional Resources

For someone in Melissia seeking legal advice and support, the following types of resources are helpful to contact or consult:

• Local police station - to report immediate danger and initiate criminal procedures.
• Public prosecutor or local court - for criminal complaints and applying for urgent protective measures.
• Municipal social services - the Municipality of Penteli social services office can provide local referrals, counseling and emergency assistance.
• Athens Bar Association or local Bar Association - for lawyer referrals and information on legal aid schemes.
• National social support agencies - national centers that coordinate social welfare and emergency accommodation for victims.
• Specialized NGOs and shelters - organizations that provide crisis counseling, shelter, escorts to medical or legal appointments and support throughout criminal and family court processes.
• Healthcare providers and emergency departments - for medical treatment and medical documentation of injuries.
• Child protection services - if children are involved, child welfare authorities will handle protection measures and referrals.

Next Steps

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

1. Ensure immediate safety - if you are in danger call the emergency services right away and move to a safe place if possible.
2. Seek medical attention - document injuries and obtain medical records even if injuries seem minor.
3. Report the incident - contact the police and, if appropriate, the public prosecutor to start criminal proceedings and request urgent protective measures.
4. Contact municipal social services - they can arrange shelter, counseling and practical assistance.
5. Gather and preserve evidence - keep photographs, messages, recordings, witness details and medical reports in a secure place.
6. Get legal advice - consult a lawyer experienced in domestic violence, criminal law and family law to understand your options and rights. If cost is an issue, ask about legal aid or pro bono services through the Bar Association or local NGOs.
7. Consider a safety plan - work with social workers, NGOs or a lawyer to create a plan for relocation, finances, and protecting children.
8. Follow court and police guidance - attend scheduled interviews, hearings and follow the advice of your lawyer and support workers.
9. Keep emotional and practical support - reach out to trusted friends, family members and counseling services for ongoing support through legal and recovery processes.

Domestic violence cases are sensitive and complicated - you do not have to navigate them alone. Use the local authorities, municipal services and specialised legal help available in the Attica region to protect your safety and legal rights.