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 in Xanthi is governed by national Greek law and enforced locally by the police, the public prosecutor and the courts in Xanthi. Domestic violence covers physical abuse, sexual abuse, psychological and emotional abuse, economic control, threats and stalking between people who are or have been in intimate, family or household relationships. Victims can seek criminal protection, emergency assistance, and civil remedies such as protection measures, custody and maintenance claims. Local social services, health-care providers and non-governmental organisations also provide support and practical help.
Domestic violence situations often involve overlapping criminal and civil issues that benefit from legal help. You may need a lawyer if you face any of the following:
- You want to file a criminal complaint or need guidance about cooperating with police and the public prosecutor.
- You need an urgent protection order or other interim measures to keep the abuser away from you or your children.
- There are child custody, visitation or parental responsibility disputes linked to abuse.
- You want to start divorce proceedings, settlement of property, or claims for maintenance and spousal support.
- You need legal advice on immigration or residence status if the abuser is a foreign national or if you are a foreign national and fear deportation.
- You need help collecting and preserving evidence - for example medical certificates, photos, witness statements and communications - so it is admissible to police and court.
- You need representation at hearings or trial, or assistance applying for legal aid if you cannot afford a private attorney.
While Xanthi applies the same national legislation as the rest of Greece, several key legal points are particularly relevant:
- Criminal law - Acts of physical violence, sexual assault, threats, unlawful deprivation of liberty, stalking and serious bodily harm are criminal offences under Greek law. Victims may file a complaint with the police or prosecutor and criminal proceedings may follow.
- Protection measures - Victims can ask the prosecutor or court for urgent protective measures aimed at preventing further abuse. These can include orders to stay away from the victim, restrictions on contact, or temporary removal from the shared home.
- Civil remedies - Family courts can decide on divorce, property division, child custody and child support. Courts may take domestic violence into account when deciding custody and visitation arrangements.
- Evidence and medical reports - Medical examinations and written medical certificates are important supporting evidence. Photographs, messages, call logs and witness statements also strengthen a case.
- Support from public authorities - Police stations, the local public prosecutor in Xanthi, municipal social services and local hospitals are the first points of contact for immediate help, assessment and referrals to shelters or specialised services.
- Legal aid and referrals - If you cannot afford a lawyer you may be eligible for free legal aid or for referral to attorneys through the Xanthi Bar Association or state legal aid schemes.
Domestic violence includes physical assault, sexual assault, emotional and psychological abuse, controlling behaviour, threats, stalking and economic coercion occurring between partners, family members or people living together. The exact legal characterisation depends on the facts, but many abusive acts can also be prosecuted as criminal offences.
In an emergency call the emergency number. For non-emergency situations you can go to the local police station in Xanthi to file a complaint or contact the public prosecutor. Medical personnel and social services can also assist with referrals. A lawyer or local support organisation can help you prepare and submit statements.
Yes. You can ask the police, prosecutor or a court for urgent protective measures. These measures can include orders that prohibit the abuser from approaching or contacting you, or temporary removal from the shared home. A lawyer can help you request these measures quickly and explain what evidence you should provide.
Serious criminal offences are investigated and prosecuted by the public prosecutor. Filing a complaint is important and helps start the process, but whether the case proceeds depends on the prosecutor and the available evidence. In some cases victims can also act as civil claimants to seek compensation.
Keep a record of incidents - dates, times, descriptions and witnesses. Preserve messages, call logs, photos of injuries, damaged property, and medical certificates. If safe to do so, save screenshots and back up material. If you have serious injuries seek immediate medical attention and request written documentation from the treating facility.
Courts prioritise children’s safety. Protective measures can include supervised visitation, temporary custody awards to the non-abusive parent, and restrictions on contact. Child protection services can assess risks and work with courts to arrange appropriate measures. A lawyer experienced in family law can help present the child-safety concerns to the court.
Municipal social services, local hospitals and police can refer you to emergency accommodation and shelters. Local non-governmental organisations and women’s support services also provide safe housing, counselling and practical assistance. If you feel unsafe, prioritise immediate relocation to a safe place and contact emergency services.
Yes. In family or civil proceedings courts can order temporary or permanent maintenance for a spouse or children. Victims may also bring civil claims for damages caused by physical or psychological harm. A lawyer can advise on the type of claim to pursue and the evidence needed to support it.
Immigration consequences depend on your specific status and circumstances. In many cases victims of domestic violence may be eligible for special protections or temporary residence permits. Seek specialised legal advice promptly so that you can both secure safety and protect your immigration status.
Contact the Xanthi Bar Association for referrals and information about lawyers specialising in domestic violence, family and criminal law. You may also qualify for state legal aid if your income is low. Local NGOs and municipal social services can sometimes provide legal referral help or direct you to pro bono services.
When seeking help, consider contacting the following types of local resources in Xanthi:
- Xanthi police station and emergency services for immediate danger.
- The public prosecutor’s office in Xanthi for information about criminal complaints and protective measures.
- Xanthi municipal social services for referrals to shelters, counselling and welfare support.
- The Xanthi Bar Association for lawyer referrals and information about legal aid schemes.
- Local hospitals and health-care providers for medical examinations and documentation.
- Local non-governmental organisations and women’s support services that provide shelter, counselling and practical assistance.
- National ministries or governmental bodies responsible for gender equality and victim support - they can provide policy information and program details.
Use the following practical checklist if you need legal assistance:
- Ensure immediate safety - if you are in danger call the emergency number right away and get to a safe location.
- Seek medical attention for injuries and obtain written medical documentation.
- Contact the local police or public prosecutor in Xanthi to report the incident and ask about protective measures.
- Preserve evidence - keep messages, photos, medical records, and a written log of incidents.
- Contact the Xanthi Bar Association or a lawyer experienced in domestic violence cases to discuss criminal and civil options, and to apply for protective measures or legal aid if needed.
- Reach out to municipal social services or local NGOs for shelter, counselling and practical support.
- If children are involved, inform child protection services and raise custody and safety concerns with your lawyer as soon as possible.
- Keep records of all official reports, medical certificates and court documents, and follow your lawyer’s instructions about court appearances and evidence submission.
Remember that this guide provides general information and does not replace personalised legal advice. Consult a qualified lawyer in Xanthi to discuss the specifics of your case and to receive tailored legal assistance.
