Best Domestic Violence Lawyers in Thivais

About Domestic Violence Law in Thivais, Greece

Domestic violence in Thivais, Greece is a criminal and civil legal issue governed primarily by Greek national law. Greece treats domestic violence as a serious offense that can include physical, sexual, psychological, and economic abuse, as well as threats and intimidation within the family or intimate relationship. Proceedings may involve the police, the public prosecutor, the criminal courts, and the civil courts for protective orders and family law measures.

In practice, cases in Thivais are handled by the local police and the competent prosecutor, with urgent measures available to protect victims and children. Protective orders, no-contact terms, temporary residence exclusion of the perpetrator, and custody or support orders can be sought quickly when safety is at risk.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may need a lawyer if you need immediate protection orders, such as a no-contact order or an order removing the abusive person from the home, and want to present a strong, evidence-based application to the court.

A lawyer can guide you through filing a criminal complaint, communicating with the police and the public prosecutor, and ensuring your rights are respected during investigations and any court hearings.

Domestic violence often overlaps with family law. A lawyer can help with divorce or separation, child custody and visitation, child support, spousal support, and the division of property and debts, always prioritizing safety.

If the abuser breaches an order, a lawyer can act quickly to inform authorities, request stricter measures, and pursue additional charges or sanctions.

For victims who are not Greek citizens, a lawyer can advise on immigration implications and options for maintaining or obtaining independent residence permits when the relationship ends due to violence.

A lawyer can help you collect and present evidence, such as medical reports, photographs, witness statements, digital communications, and expert opinions, in a clear and admissible way.

If you are accused of domestic violence, a lawyer is essential to protect your defense rights, respond to protective measures, and navigate criminal procedure responsibly.

Local Laws Overview

Definition and scope - Greek law on domestic violence, notably Law 3500-2006 as amended and relevant provisions of the Penal Code and Code of Civil Procedure, covers violence between spouses, former spouses, partners, former partners, persons living together or who have lived together, relatives, and persons connected through family or household relationships. It includes physical and sexual violence, threats, coercion, serious insults affecting dignity, stalking-like behavior, and economic control when used as a tool of abuse.

Criminal enforcement - Domestic violence offenses are typically prosecuted ex officio, meaning authorities can proceed even without a formal complaint by the victim. Police in Thivais can intervene, record the incident, and bring the case before the prosecutor. If an offense is committed in flagrante, immediate arrest procedures may apply. Violation of protective terms can constitute a separate crime.

Protective measures - Victims can seek civil protective orders through urgent proceedings. Courts may impose no-contact orders, ban communication, order the temporary exclusion of the perpetrator from the residence, and set temporary custody and support arrangements. Criminal courts and prosecutors can also impose restrictive terms during the investigation and trial, including no-contact and stay-away conditions.

Evidence and documentation - Medical examinations, injury certificates, psychological evaluations, photographs, text messages, emails, call logs, social media posts, recordings where legally permissible, and eyewitness accounts are commonly used. Prompt medical documentation from local health services strengthens a case.

Children and vulnerable persons - The law provides enhanced protection for minors, pregnant persons, elderly or disabled victims. Professionals who encounter suspected abuse of a child have heightened reporting obligations. Courts prioritize the best interests of the child and may order supervised contact or suspend contact with the abusive parent.

Housing and residence - Courts can allow the victim and children to remain in the family home and order the perpetrator to leave temporarily. Shelters and safe accommodation are available through national and municipal networks when staying home is unsafe.

Confidentiality and privacy - Proceedings involving minors or sensitive facts may be conducted with privacy protections. Victim data is handled with confidentiality rules, and support services maintain privacy within legal limits.

Immigration considerations - Non Greek citizens who entered or stayed under family reunification rules may request independent residence status if the relationship ends due to domestic violence. Legal advice is recommended to navigate documentation and deadlines.

Mediation and settlements - Penal mediation in domestic violence has been restricted. Courts and prosecutors assess safety first. Family mediation is generally not appropriate where there is ongoing violence or coercive control.

Legal aid - People with low income may qualify for state legal aid for civil and criminal proceedings. Applications are made through the courts with proof of income and case details.

Frequently Asked Questions

What conduct counts as domestic violence in Greece

It includes physical assault, threats, sexual violence including marital rape, stalking-like behavior, intimidation and severe insults that harm dignity, isolation and control, and economic abuse such as blocking access to basic funds. It applies to spouses, former spouses, partners, former partners, cohabitants, relatives, and household members.

Who do I contact in an emergency in Thivais

Call 100 for the police or 112 for the pan European emergency number. If medical help is needed, call 166 for an ambulance. If you are safe but need advice, you can contact the national SOS line 15900 for women experiencing violence or 197 for social support.

How do I file a police report

You can go to the local police department in Thivais or call the police to attend the scene. Provide as much detail as possible, including dates, injuries, witnesses, and any messages or recordings. The police will notify the prosecutor, who decides on charges and protective measures.

How quickly can I get a protective order

Urgent civil proceedings allow for temporary protection orders to be issued quickly, sometimes the same day or within a few days, especially where there is immediate risk. Prosecutors can also request restrictive terms during the criminal process. A lawyer can help you file an urgent application with supporting evidence.

Can I stay in the family home

Yes, the court can order the perpetrator to leave the residence temporarily and allow you and your children to stay. This can be requested along with a no-contact order and child custody measures when needed.

What happens if the abuser violates an order

Breaching a court order or restrictive term is a criminal offense. You should immediately inform the police and your lawyer. The prosecutor can seek stricter measures, detention, or additional charges.

How does domestic violence affect custody and visitation

The court prioritizes the safety and well being of the child. Evidence of violence can lead to supervised visitation, suspended visitation, or tailored parenting plans. The court can also order counseling or protective conditions for any contact.

Do I need evidence to proceed

Criminal cases can proceed based on testimony, but corroborating evidence strengthens your case. Seek medical exams, keep messages and call logs, take photos of injuries or property damage, and note dates and details. Witness statements are helpful.

I am not a Greek citizen or I do not speak Greek - can I still get help

Yes. You can receive police protection, medical care, and legal support regardless of citizenship or immigration status. You can ask for an interpreter. Legal advice can help you apply for or maintain an independent residence permit if needed.

Will my information be kept confidential

Support services and lawyers must respect confidentiality within legal limits. Court files are not public, and cases with minors or sensitive facts may have privacy protections. If you fear retaliation, tell your lawyer so they can request additional safeguards.

Additional Resources

Hellenic Police - for emergencies call 100, for immediate danger call 112. Ask for domestic violence trained officers. Local police in Thivais can assist with reporting and safety.

National SOS Helpline for women victims of violence - 15900. Provides 24-7 counseling, safety planning, and referrals to shelters and legal help.

National Social Support Line - 197. Offers social and psychological support and can connect you with local services and shelters.

The Smile of the Child - 1056 child helpline. For concerns about child abuse or child safety.

Municipal social services in Thivais - can help with emergency housing, benefits, and referrals to counseling and shelters.

Hospitals and health centers in the region - seek medical examination and a written injury report as soon as possible for both your health and documentation.

Prosecutor and Courts serving Thivais - for criminal complaints, protective orders, and urgent civil measures. Court registries can provide information on legal aid applications.

Local Bar Association - can refer you to lawyers experienced in domestic violence, family law, and protective measures.

State Legal Aid under Greek law - low income individuals may qualify for free representation in criminal cases and key civil matters related to domestic violence.

Next Steps

Prioritize safety. If you are in danger, call 100 or 112. If injured, get medical help immediately at the nearest hospital or health center and ask for a medical report and photographs of injuries.

Document everything. Keep messages, emails, social media posts, call logs, photos, and notes of dates, times, and witnesses. Store copies in a secure place. This evidence supports both protective orders and criminal cases.

Seek immediate protection. Speak with a lawyer to apply for an urgent protective order, including no-contact terms, a stay away zone, and temporary exclusion from the home. Ask about temporary custody and support if children are involved.

Report to the police. Provide a clear account and your evidence. Ask the police to notify the prosecutor about your need for protection. If there is a breach of any order, report it at once.

Use support services. Call 15900 or 197 for confidential guidance and referrals to shelters, counseling, and social benefits. Municipal social services in Thivais can assist with housing and financial support.

Plan for the medium term. With your lawyer, consider divorce or separation, custody and visitation arrangements, child support, and property issues. Discuss immigration options if you are not a Greek citizen.

Review your safety plan. Change passwords, adjust privacy settings, consider a new phone or number, and inform trusted contacts and your child’s school about protective orders.

Ask about legal aid. If you have low income, request information on eligibility and how to apply for state funded legal assistance.

Domestic violence cases move quickly at first and may take time to resolve fully. Having a knowledgeable local lawyer in Thivais and a clear support network can make the process safer and more manageable.