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This guide explains how sexual offense matters are handled for people in Nowa Dęba, a town in the Podkarpackie Voivodeship of Poland. Criminal law in Poland is national in scope, so the substantive rules that define sexual offenses and the penalties come from Polish national law. Local institutions - the police station in Nowa Dęba, the regional prosecutor's office, hospitals that carry out forensic examinations and local courts - carry out investigations and decisions on cases arising in the area.
Sexual offenses cover a broad range of conduct, from unwanted touching and sexual harassment to rape and sexual activity with minors. The authorities treat such matters seriously. If you are involved in an allegation as a victim, witness or accused person, it is important to understand basic procedural steps, your rights and the local resources available to you.
Legal assistance is important in multiple situations related to sexual offense matters. A lawyer can protect your rights, explain options, and guide you through criminal investigation and court proceedings.
Common situations where people need a lawyer include:
- If you are accused of a sexual offense - to advise on statements to police, possible defenses and procedural steps.
- If you are a victim - to ensure your evidence is preserved, to help request protective measures, to advise about criminal and civil remedies and to represent you in court.
- If there is an allegation involving a minor - to coordinate with social services and protect the child's rights and best interests.
- When you need help obtaining forensic examinations, medical documentation or police reports.
- If you cannot afford a lawyer - to help secure free legal aid where eligible.
Key legal frameworks and practical points that apply in Nowa Dęba mirror national Polish law. Relevant elements include:
- Definitions of offenses - The Penal Code sets out sexual offenses, including rape, sexual coercion, sexual abuse, sexual acts with minors and exploitation through force or threats. Offenses are defined by the nature of the act, consent and the victim's age or vulnerability.
- Age of consent - Under Polish law the age of sexual consent is 15. Sexual activity with a person younger than this is a criminal offense with serious penalties.
- Criminal procedure - The Code of Criminal Procedure governs investigation, evidence gathering, the role of police and prosecutors, pre-trial detention, and court proceedings. In practice the police carry out initial investigations and the public prosecutor decides whether to bring charges.
- Victim rights - Victims have rights to information, protection, support services and certain procedural safeguards. Courts can order protective measures - for example temporary bans on contact, restraining measures and supervised contact when minors are involved.
- Forensic and medical examinations - Medical documentation and forensic evidence, including sexual assault examinations and DNA sampling, are important in many cases. Hospitals and forensic departments in the region carry out such examinations on request of the police or prosecutor, or at a victim's initiative.
- Penalties and consequences - Penalties can include fines, restriction of liberty, community service and imprisonment. Sentencing depends on the offense gravity, circumstances and any previous convictions.
- Confidentiality and privacy - Polish procedure provides protections for victims, especially minors. Courts may limit public access to hearings and records in sensitive cases.
You can report a sexual offense at the local police station, by contacting emergency services in immediate danger, or by filing a report directly with the prosecutor's office. If you are in danger call emergency services right away. If you are unsure how to proceed you can speak with a lawyer or a victim support organization for guidance on reporting and documentation.
Prioritize safety and medical care. Seek emergency help if needed. Preserve evidence - avoid washing, changing clothes or cleaning the scene before a forensic examination, where possible. Seek medical attention and ask for documentation of injuries and any forensic examination. Consider reporting to the police and consult a lawyer or victim support services for next steps.
Reporting starts an investigation. The police gather evidence and submit findings to the public prosecutor. The prosecutor decides whether there is sufficient evidence to bring charges. Not every report leads to charges, and the prosecutor may close an investigation if evidence is insufficient. A lawyer can help ensure evidence is preserved and presented effectively.
Relevant evidence can include medical and forensic reports, DNA results, witness statements, photos of injuries, electronic communication, surveillance footage and records documenting the timeline. Early forensic examination and written accounts improve the chance of preserving valuable evidence.
Yes. Authorities can issue protective measures such as temporary restraining orders, bans on contact, or other court orders to protect a victim. If there is an imminent risk, inform the police and ask the prosecutor or court for immediate protective steps. A lawyer or victim support service can assist with applications for protection.
Cases involving minors are handled with special care. Social services and child protection authorities become involved to protect the child and assess their needs. Court procedures may be adjusted to shield the child from public exposure. If a child is involved, notify child protection services and consider legal advice experienced in juvenile matters.
Consequences vary by offense severity and individual circumstances. Penalties can include fines, restriction of liberty, imprisonment, and criminal record. Courts may also impose measures such as mandatory treatment or rehabilitation programs. Civil remedies, including compensation claims, can also be pursued separately.
Some matters may be resolved by withdrawal of complaint or mediation in less serious cases, but many sexual offenses are subject to public prosecution and cannot be fully resolved privately. If a case is prosecuted by the state, private agreements do not guarantee that the prosecutor will stop proceedings. Speak to a lawyer before agreeing to any settlement.
Yes. People under investigation have rights including the right to remain silent, the right to legal counsel, and protections against unlawful detention. A lawyer can advise on when to answer police questions and how to challenge unlawfully obtained evidence.
Poland operates a system of free legal aid for eligible persons, and courts may appoint defense counsel for those who cannot afford one in criminal cases. Local municipal or county offices can provide information about free legal assistance programs. If you need help finding a lawyer, seek guidance from local authorities or victim support organizations.
If you need help, consider contacting or seeking information from the following types of organizations and authorities:
- Local police station in Nowa Dęba or regional police in the Podkarpackie Voivodeship.
- The public prosecutor's office that handles criminal prosecutions in the region.
- Local hospitals and forensic departments for medical and forensic examinations related to sexual assault.
- Social services and child protection agencies when minors or vulnerable persons are involved.
- National and local victim support organizations and NGOs that provide counseling, legal guidance and crisis support. Examples of organizations that work with victims of violence and abuse in Poland include national victim support NGOs and centers focused on women's and children's rights.
- The national ombudsman and the Commissioner for Children’s Rights for systemic complaints and advice on rights protection.
- Local municipal or county offices for information on free legal aid clinics and how to apply for legal assistance.
Contacting a local lawyer experienced in criminal and family law is often the most direct way to get case-specific guidance.
If you or someone you care about needs legal assistance in a sexual offense matter in Nowa Dęba, consider the following steps:
- Ensure immediate safety. In an emergency call emergency services without delay.
- Seek medical care and, if appropriate, a forensic examination as soon as possible to preserve evidence.
- Report the incident to the police when you are ready. You may also consult a lawyer before giving a statement.
- Gather and preserve any physical evidence, communications, photos or witness contacts.
- Contact a lawyer who has experience in criminal law and sexual offense cases - ask about confidentiality, fees, and whether they offer an initial consultation.
- If you cannot afford private counsel, inquire about free legal aid through your local municipal or county office and ask courts about appointed counsel in criminal matters.
- Reach out to local victim support services or NGOs for emotional support, practical assistance and information about protective measures.
- Keep a written record of events and actions you take, including dates, times and names of officials you speak with.
Each case is different. A local lawyer can explain how the law applies to the specific facts and can represent your interests during investigation and court proceedings.
