Existing user? Sign in
Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Sex crimes are serious criminal offences under Greek law and are treated with high priority by police, prosecutors and courts throughout Greece, including in Karditsa. These offences cover a range of conduct from sexual assault and rape to sexual offences against minors, sexual exploitation, harassment and distribution or possession of sexual material involving children. Cases may involve criminal investigation, criminal prosecution by the state, protective measures for victims and potential civil claims for compensation.
Procedures in Karditsa follow national criminal law and local practice of the Karditsa police, the local public prosecutor and the courts that serve the Karditsa area. Because sexual offences often involve sensitive evidence and vulnerable people, investigations seek to balance the rights of victims and suspects while protecting public safety.
Legal assistance is important whether you are a complainant, a witness or someone accused of a sex crime. A lawyer can help in many common situations, including:
- If you have been the victim of a sexual offence and want to report the matter to the police, a lawyer can explain your options, the reporting process and how to request protective measures.
- If you are accused of a sex crime, immediate legal representation is essential to protect your rights during police questioning, detention, and court proceedings.
- If the case involves a minor, a lawyer can advise on interactions with child protection authorities and the criminal process, and help ensure procedural safeguards are observed.
- For cases involving digital evidence, social media, or cross-border elements, a lawyer can manage evidence preservation and coordinate with authorities in other jurisdictions.
- If you seek a restraining order, emergency protection, or compensation for harm, a lawyer can prepare and present the necessary applications and represent you at hearings.
In Greece the criminal code and related legislation define and punish sexual offences. Key aspects relevant in Karditsa include the following points.
- Definitions and scope: Sexual offences include non-consensual sexual intercourse and sexual acts, sexual assault, rape, sexual exploitation and abuse of children, trafficking for sexual purposes, sexual harassment and the production, possession and distribution of sexual material involving minors.
- Consent: The presence or absence of consent is central. Consent must be voluntary and informed. Particular care is taken in cases where the victim is unable to consent because of age, mental disability, intoxication or coercion.
- Age-related rules: The law contains special protections for minors. Sexual activity with persons below the legal age for sexual consent is a criminal offence. There are also additional offences for grooming, exploitation and material involving children.
- Criminal procedure: Most sexual offences are prosecuted by the state. Certain offences, especially those involving minors, are prosecuted by public prosecutors even if a victim withdraws a complaint. Criminal investigations may involve forensic medical examinations, digital forensic analysis and witness interviews.
- Protective measures and interim orders: Courts and prosecutors can issue measures to protect victims, such as restraining orders, exclusion from a shared residence and pre-trial detention of a suspect when necessary for public safety or to prevent intimidation.
- Penalties: Penalties vary widely depending on the nature of the offence, aggravating factors and whether a minor was involved. Sentences can include imprisonment and fines, together with additional measures such as mandatory therapy or registration where applicable.
- Civil remedies: Victims may pursue civil claims for compensation for psychological and physical harm. Civil and criminal processes can run in parallel.
Because legal details and interpretation change over time and can be affected by case facts, it is important to consult a qualified lawyer in Karditsa for advice tailored to the specific situation.
Below are common questions people ask when they face matters relating to sex crimes in Karditsa, with concise, practical answers.
Sex crimes include non-consensual sexual acts, rape, sexual assault, sexual exploitation, sexual offences against children, sexual harassment and offences related to child sexual abuse material. The specific conduct and legal classification depend on details such as the nature of the act, consent and the ages of the people involved.
You can report a sexual offence to the local police station or to the public prosecutor. If you are a victim, a lawyer or a trusted person can assist you with the report. It is helpful to preserve any physical or digital evidence and to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Your immediate priorities are safety and health. Get to a safe place, seek medical care, and consider reporting the incident. Avoid washing or discarding clothing and preserve messages or other communications that may be evidence. Contacting a lawyer or a victim support service can help you understand next steps.
If you are accused you have the right to legal representation, the right to remain silent, and the right to be informed of the charges. You should avoid contacting the alleged victim and seek a lawyer immediately to advise you during police interviews and courtroom proceedings.
For many sexual offences, especially those involving serious violence or minors, prosecutions are pursued by the state and can proceed even if the victim withdraws a complaint. The public prosecutor assesses the evidence and public interest when deciding whether to continue the case.
There is no fixed timetable. The duration depends on the complexity of the investigation, the need for forensic or digital evidence, whether pre-trial detention is sought, and court scheduling. Some cases are resolved in months, while more complex matters may take longer.
Yes. Greek authorities can issue protective measures such as restraining orders and exclusion orders from the home to protect victims. A lawyer can help you apply to the prosecutor or the court for immediate protection and explain what evidence is needed to support the request.
Evidence can include medical reports, forensic and DNA evidence, witness statements, messages and social media content, CCTV and digital files. Preserving and properly collecting evidence from the outset is important. Forensic examinations should be performed by qualified medical professionals and digital evidence should be preserved and copied by experts where necessary.
Cases involving minors are handled with additional protections. Child protection services may become involved, and authorities aim to minimize repeated interviews and exposure. Prosecutors take offences against minors seriously and may pursue charges vigorously. Specialized procedures and confidentiality safeguards are often used.
Seek a lawyer with experience in criminal defence or victim representation in sexual offence cases. Locally, you can consult the Karditsa Bar Association or ask for referrals from legal aid services or trusted organisations. Arrange an initial consultation to discuss experience, likely strategy and fees before engaging a lawyer.
Below are types of resources and organisations that can help people seeking advice or support in Karditsa.
- Hellenic Police - local Karditsa police station for reporting crimes and obtaining immediate assistance.
- Local Public Prosecutor's Office - handles criminal investigations and prosecutions in Karditsa.
- Karditsa Bar Association - a source for locating qualified criminal lawyers and information about legal representation.
- Ministry of Justice - national authority overseeing courts, prosecution policy and legal aid services.
- Legal Aid Service - provides information on free or subsidised legal assistance for those who qualify.
- Municipal social services in Karditsa - can assist victims with support, shelter options and referrals.
- National or regional victim support organisations and NGOs - provide counselling, crisis support and practical assistance for victims of sexual violence and gender-based violence.
- National child protection and social support bodies - for cases involving minors, these authorities coordinate protection and care measures.
Contacting these organisations early can help you understand immediate protections, available services and how to secure legal advice.
If you need legal assistance regarding a sex crime matter in Karditsa, consider the following steps:
- Prioritise safety - if you are in immediate danger, contact the police or local emergency services right away.
- Preserve evidence - keep any relevant clothing, messages, photos or other materials and avoid altering potential evidence.
- Seek medical attention - a medical examination can document injuries and preserve forensic evidence while also addressing your health needs.
- Consult a lawyer promptly - a qualified criminal lawyer can explain your rights, advise on reporting, request protective measures, and represent you before prosecutors and courts.
- If you are a victim, ask about victim support services for counselling, practical help and information about compensation options.
- If you are accused, exercise your right to remain silent until you have legal representation and do not contact the alleged victim.
- Keep records - maintain a written record of events, contacts with authorities, appointments and correspondence related to the case.
Remember that this guide provides general information and not legal advice. Laws and procedures can change, and the specifics of any case matter. For advice tailored to your situation, contact a qualified lawyer in Karditsa as soon as possible.
