Existing user? Sign in
Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Free Guide to Hiring a Family Lawyer
Domestic violence is taken seriously in Poland, including in Pułtusk. The law recognises physical, psychological, sexual and economic abuse between family members and partners. Victims can seek protection through the police, social services and the courts. Cases can be handled as criminal matters, civil matters or administrative interventions depending on the nature of the conduct and the relief sought. Local institutions in Pułtusk - such as the police, municipal social assistance bodies and the family court - work together with national frameworks and non-governmental organisations to provide emergency response and longer term support.
A lawyer can help you at important stages and in several situations. If you are considering a criminal complaint against an abuser, a lawyer can explain the criminal process, help prepare evidence and represent you at hearings. For civil remedies - such as obtaining a protective order, seeking custody or visitation changes, arranging financial support, initiating divorce proceedings or claiming compensation - a lawyer advises on strategy, court forms and deadlines. Lawyers who specialise in domestic violence also support safety planning, liaise with social services, and can coordinate parallel criminal and family cases. Legal advice is especially important when children are involved, when you face immigration or housing questions, or when you need urgent protective measures.
Key legal elements relevant in Pułtusk reflect national Polish law but are implemented locally by police, courts and social services. Important points to know include:
- The Act on Counteracting Domestic Violence sets out procedures for identifying domestic violence, coordinating local responses and enabling immediate measures by police and social workers. The well-known "Blue Card" procedure is a structured record and response mechanism used by police, social services and health or education institutions when domestic violence is suspected.
- Police have powers to intervene immediately, including removing a suspected perpetrator from a shared residence and imposing a temporary ban on contact and returning to the home for a set period. Police also initiate formal investigations when criminal conduct is alleged.
- Serious acts of violence may be prosecuted under the Penal Code. Relevant criminal offences include assault and causing bodily harm, making threats, stalking and sexual offences. The prosecutor decides whether to bring charges.
- Victims can seek civil protection - for example, orders prohibiting contact or requiring the perpetrator to stay away from home or school. Family courts handle divorce, alimony, custody and visitation disputes, and these proceedings can include urgent temporary arrangements for the safety of the victim and children.
- Local social services and municipal authorities provide support measures - such as counselling, shelter, and social assistance - and coordinate with the police and court system to support victims and children.
If you are in immediate danger call the emergency number for the police. Try to get to a safe place if possible. If you cannot leave, consider steps to reduce risk - for example, move to a room with an exit, keep your phone charged and accessible, and let someone you trust know where you are. When police arrive, tell them clearly what has happened and ask for a document recording their actions and any measures taken.
Yes. Under domestic violence procedures the police can order a suspected perpetrator to leave a shared residence temporarily and impose a ban on contact and return for a limited period. This is an immediate protective measure. The police can also initiate criminal proceedings if an offence has occurred. Ask the police to document any orders given to the perpetrator.
The "Blue Card" is a standardised local procedure used by police, social services, medical personnel and schools when there are signs of domestic violence. When the procedure starts, professionals create a Blue Card form that records the incident and the needs of the victim and any children. The process triggers a local action plan and follow-up by social services, and it can be used as evidence of a pattern of abuse.
Yes. Courts can issue civil protective measures that restrict the abuser's contact with you or require them to stay away from your home, workplace or children. In urgent cases you can ask the court for interim measures while a full hearing is scheduled. A lawyer can help prepare the application and explain the likely timeframe and what evidence will be useful.
Not always. If a crime appears to have been committed the police may arrest a suspect or detain them for questioning, and the prosecutor decides whether to bring charges. Criminal proceedings require proof beyond a reasonable doubt. Police, witnesses and medical records play an important role. A lawyer can help you understand the process and ensure your statements and evidence are recorded properly.
You can file a criminal complaint with the police or directly with the prosecutor without a lawyer, but having legal assistance can be valuable. A lawyer can help you prepare a clear statement, identify evidence, advise about protective measures and represent you in proceedings. If you cannot afford a lawyer you may be able to get free legal assistance through state-sponsored legal aid in your county.
Reports or findings of violence influence custody and visitation decisions. Courts put the safety and best interests of the child first. Evidence of violence may lead to supervised visitation, restrictions on contact, or changes in custody. Even allegations can prompt temporary protective measures pending a full hearing. Legal advice is important when children are involved to protect their welfare and your parental rights.
Yes. You may be able to seek compensation through criminal proceedings - by making a civil claim within the criminal case - or through a separate civil claim for damages. Compensation can cover medical costs, property damage, and suffering. A lawyer can estimate potential claims, collect evidence and advise on the best legal path.
Collect and keep any evidence that supports your account - photographs of injuries or damaged property, medical records and hospital notes, police reports, witness statements, text messages, emails, call logs and social media messages. Keep originals if safe and make copies stored in a secure place. A lawyer and social services can advise how to keep evidence safe without increasing risk.
Poland provides state-funded free legal aid points through county offices where residents can get initial legal advice, help drafting documents and referrals. Local NGOs and specialised centres for victims of domestic violence may also offer free legal consultations or representation. Contact local municipal offices, the county social assistance centre or ask the police or prosecutor for referrals to available services.
When you need assistance in Pułtusk consider these types of resources - contact them through the appropriate local offices or by asking police or social services for direct referrals:
- Local police station - for immediate protection, intervention and to start criminal proceedings.
- Municipal social assistance centre or municipal family support services - for social support, counselling and help with emergency accommodation.
- County office free legal aid points - for initial legal advice and help preparing court documents.
- Family court and the local prosecutor's office - for filing civil and criminal cases and seeking protective orders.
- Shelters and specialised NGOs that support victims of domestic violence - for safe housing, counselling and legal guidance.
- National and regional helplines that offer confidential advice and referrals. These helplines can assist in crisis planning and connect you to local services.
Follow these practical steps if you need legal assistance:
- Ensure immediate safety first - call the police if you are at risk and ask for protective measures on the spot.
- Preserve evidence - get medical attention, keep records, save messages and take photos of injuries or damage.
- Ask for a Blue Card if the police or social worker believes domestic violence has occurred - this triggers local support and documentation.
- Contact state-funded legal aid in your county or a lawyer experienced in domestic violence cases. If you cannot afford a private lawyer ask about free legal help or referrals.
- Consider both criminal and civil remedies - a lawyer can help you decide whether to pursue criminal charges, seek a protective order, start divorce or custody proceedings, or claim compensation.
- Work with social services and local victim support organisations for counselling, shelter and longer term safety planning.
- Keep a record of every contact with the police, social services and courts - dates, names, reference numbers and copies of documents will help your case.
If you are unsure where to start, ask the police or your municipal office for the nearest legal aid point or victim support service in Pułtusk. Taking early steps to protect your safety and preserve evidence will strengthen any legal options you choose to pursue.
