Melhores Advogados de Violência doméstica em Lisboa

1. About Violência doméstica Law in Lisboa, Portugal

In Lisboa, as in the rest of Portugal, violência doméstica is addressed by national laws that protect victims and regulate protective measures. The law covers physical, psychological, economic and coercive conduct by a current or former partner, family member, or other household member. Legal protections are available through police intervention, court orders and ongoing judicial processes.

The core framework includes Lei n.º 112/2009, de 16 de Setembro, which established protective measures and a network of services for victims. The Código Penal also criminalizes acts of violência doméstica and sets sentencing guidelines. In Lisbon, victims can seek urgent protection from the police and from courts, and longer term safety measures are decided by the judiciary.

Local resources in Lisboa provide guidance and support, including official government bodies and NGOs. For authoritative information, consult the Comissão para a Cidadania e a Igualdade de Género (CIG) and APAV, which offer practical advice and referrals. See the cited official sources below for more detail.

Violência doméstica é crime em Portugal e exige resposta rápida do sistema de proteção, incluindo medidas de proteção às vítimas. Fontes oficiais descrevem os direitos das vítimas e os mecanismos de proteção disponíveis a nível nacional e local.

Key government and non-profit sources to consult while in Lisboa include CIG and APAV, which provide clear guidance on how to access protective measures, reporting channels, and legal assistance. Useful official pages are linked in the resources section below.

For official texts of the laws mentioned, you can consult Diário da República (DRE) and Ministry of Justice portals. See the sources section for direct links to the texts and guidance documents.

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

• Urgent protective measures - A victim may need a lawyer to obtain an emergency restraining order and to ensure police and court actions are timely and properly documented. In Lisbon, swift legal help can prevent further harm while investigations proceed.
• Criminal proceedings against the abuser - Lawyers help victims navigate investigations, press charges when appropriate, and participate in courtroom proceedings to secure witnesses and evidence while protecting rights.
• Protecting children and dependents - If minors are involved, a lawyer advises on custody, visitation, and safeguarding arrangements during separation or divorce in Lisbon courts.
• Property and financial matters - A lawyer helps with asset division, alimony discussions, and any economic abuses that occur within a domestic setting, ensuring fair treatment under Portuguese law.
• Legal aid and funding options - A lawyer can assess eligibility for Assistência Judiciária (legal aid) to reduce costs, and guide you through applications in Lisbon courts.
• Documentation and evidence collection - An attorney can request official records, preserve digital evidence, and prepare affidavits to support protective orders and criminal cases.

3. Local Laws Overview

• Lei n.º 112/2009, de 16 de Setembro - Lei da violência doméstica. This statute introduced protective measures for victims and established a network of services for support in Portugal. It provides the basis for urgent protective orders and long-term safety planning. Official text on Diário da República (DRE).
• Código Penal - The Penal Code contains provisions criminalizing violência doméstica and sets penalties commensurate with the severity of acts committed by family or household members. The code applies nationwide, including Lisboa, and is subject to ongoing updates. Official text on Diário da República (DRE).
• Código de Processo Penal - Governs the procedural aspects of violência doméstica cases, including how investigations proceed, how victims participate, and how protective measures are implemented during the prosecution. This code shapes the timeline and rights in Lisbon courts. Official text on Diário da República (DRE).

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is domestic violence under Portuguese law?

Domestic violence includes physical, psychological, economic, and coercive behaviors by a current or former partner or household member. It is recognized as a crime with protective measures available for victims, including lodging complaints and seeking urgent protection.

How do I report or seek help for violence in Lisboa?

Call 112 in an emergency or contact the local PSP station or GNR. You can also reach APAV for support and guidance on reporting and obtaining protective orders.

When can I obtain an emergency protective order in Lisbon?

Emergency protective orders can be sought through police and courts when there is immediate risk. A judge may impose temporary restrictions on the perpetrator while the case proceeds.

Where should I go in Lisbon to obtain legal assistance for domestic violence?

You can start with APAV for victim support and referrals, and consult a lawyer who specializes in violência domestica in Lisbon. The Portuguese Bar Association can help locate qualified lawyers.

Why should I hire a lawyer if I am a victim of violence?

Lawyers protect your rights, help you navigate the criminal and civil processes, and ensure you obtain necessary protective measures and fair outcomes in family and financial matters.

Do I need to pay for a lawyer in domestic violence cases?

Not necessarily. Portugal provides Assistência Judiciária (legal aid) for those with limited means. A lawyer can assess eligibility and guide you through the application process with the help of the relevant court services.

Can a lawyer help me with child custody in these cases?

Yes. A lawyer advises on best interests of the child, including custody, visitation rights and protection measures for minors involved in disputes arising from violence.

How long does a typical domestic violence case take in Lisbon?

Timeline varies by case complexity. Investigations can take months, while protective orders may be issued rapidly in urgent situations. Courts may set hearings over several weeks to months.

What is the difference between a protective order and a restraining order?

Protective orders are court-issued measures aimed at safeguarding victims, often including no-contact provisions and safety protocols. Restraining orders are similar but may be issued under administrative or court procedures depending on the case.

Do I qualify for legal aid in Lisbon for violência domestica cases?

Legal aid is available to those who meet income and means criteria. A lawyer or the court can help determine eligibility and assist with the application process.

Is there a difference between violência domestica and gender-based violence in Portugal?

Violência domestica includes gender-based dynamics but focuses on acts within domestic or family contexts. Portuguese law treats both as serious offenses, with protections designed for victims in domestic settings.

How long do protective measures last in Lisbon's courts?

Temporary measures typically last during the urgent phase or until a court decides on long-term arrangements. Durations are tailored to the case and can be extended or modified by the judge.

5. Additional Resources

• CIG - Governo de Portugal - informações oficiais sobre violência doméstica e mecanismos de proteção.
• APAV - Associação Portuguesa de Apoio à Vítima - orientação prática, apoio emocional e encaminhamentos jurídicos.
• Diário da República (DRE) - textos oficiais de leis e alterações legislativas.

6. Next Steps

1. Assess your safety and evidence needs: collect dates, messages, photos, voice mails, medical records, and witness contacts as soon as possible.
2. Contact trusted sources in Lisboa: call 112 in danger, visit a PSP station, and reach APAV for guidance and referrals to legal help.
3. Identify a lawyer who specializes in violência domestica in Lisbon: use the Ordem dos Advogados directory and APAV referrals to find a suitable attorney.
4. Schedule an initial consultation: bring all evidence, your safety plan, and any existing protective orders or police reports.
5. Discuss available protective measures: ask about urgent protection, long-term safety planning, and how your case will proceed in court.
6. Explore legal aid options: determine if you qualify for Assistência Judiciária and begin the application with your attorney or court services.
7. Prepare for hearings and documentation: work with your lawyer to organize witness statements, medical reports, and any financial documents relevant to custody or support matters.

Timeline tip: in Lisbon, initial protective measures can be secured quickly in urgent cases, while full court proceedings often span several weeks to months, depending on maturity of the case. Always confirm timelines with your lawyer and court staff for your specific situation.

Notes on local access and emergency contacts: In Lisbon, you can report emergencies to the Polícia de Segurança Pública (PSP) or Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR). The nationwide emergency number is 112. For ongoing support and guidance, consult CIG and APAV as primary reference points in Lisbon as you navigate the legal process.

Official references and further reading:

• Lei n.º 112/2009, de 16 de Setembro - Lei da violência doméstica (DRE text): DRE
• Código Penal - violência doméstica (DRE text): DRE
• Código de Processo Penal - procedural rules (DRE text): DRE

Local Lisbon resources and contacts:

• PSP - Polícia de Segurança Pública: www.psp.pt
• 112 - Emergency number in Portugal
• APAV - Associação Portuguesa de Apoio à Vítima: apav.pt