Best Sexual Abuse Lawyers in Aurich

About Sexual Abuse Law in Aurich, Germany

This guide gives a clear, practical overview for people in Aurich, Lower Saxony who are dealing with sexual abuse - whether as a survivor, a family member, or someone accused. In Germany sexual offences are handled under the national criminal code and by local criminal justice institutions. Local authorities in Aurich - police, public prosecutor, youth welfare office and courts - work within that national framework, and there are victim support services and local counselling options to help survivors. The information below explains why legal help is often necessary, which laws and procedures are most relevant, and where to get local support.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Sexual abuse cases raise complex legal, medical and procedural issues. A lawyer can help in several common situations:

- If you are a survivor and want to report an offence to the police, a lawyer can explain the criminal process, help prepare statements, and represent your interests as a Nebenklägerin or Nebenkläger (joint plaintiff) to assert claims for compensation and participate in the criminal trial.

- If you need urgent protection - for example a restraining order or immediate police protection - a lawyer can advise on civil and criminal protective measures and help obtain them quickly.

- If you are a parent or guardian of a minor who has been abused, legal advice helps coordinate reporting to Jugendamt, police and medical services and protect the child’s legal interests.

- If you are accused of sexual abuse, you must secure legal representation immediately to protect your rights, advise on statements to police, and prepare a defence.

- If you want to claim financial compensation or damages, or need assistance with victim compensation schemes, a lawyer experienced in personal injury and criminal-law victims’ rights can guide you through civil claims and applications for public compensation.

Local Laws Overview

Key legal features relevant in Aurich reflect German federal law and the criminal procedure rules that apply across the country. Important points to understand:

- Criminal law basis - The Strafgesetzbuch (StGB) contains the main sexual offences, such as sexual coercion and rape, sexual abuse of minors and other sexual offences. Penalties depend on the nature of the act, the age of the victim and whether force, threats or exploitation of a position of trust were involved.

- Protection of minors - The law provides special protections for children and adolescents. Offences involving minors are treated seriously and often carry enhanced penalties. The Jugendamt (youth welfare office) in Aurich will be involved if a child is at risk.

- Criminal procedure and victim rights - The Strafprozessordnung (StPO) governs police investigations and court proceedings. Victims have rights to information, participation, and legal support. Victims may join criminal proceedings as Nebenkläger to assert claims and attend hearings with legal representation.

- Evidence and forensic examination - Medical and forensic exams play a crucial role in preserving evidence. Hospitals and specialised clinics can perform what's often called a sexual assault forensic examination. You can have such an exam even if you are undecided about reporting to police.

- Civil remedies and compensation - Survivors can pursue civil claims for damages for pain and suffering and other losses. In addition, statutory victim compensation schemes and social support measures may be available under victim protection laws.

- Protective measures - Courts can order contact bans, restraining orders and other protective measures. Police can intervene directly if immediate danger exists.

- Local institutions - In Aurich, the local police station, the public prosecutor's office and the Amtsgericht (local court) or Landgericht (regional court) handle criminal matters. Jugendamt and specialised counselling centres provide social and protective services.

Because the precise legal consequences depend on the facts, on the ages of those involved and on procedural choices, it is important to seek tailored legal advice early.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I report sexual abuse in Aurich?

You can report to the local police station in Aurich or contact the public prosecutor. Reporting can be done in person, by phone or via an authorised representative. You may also first seek medical care and a forensic examination and then report. A lawyer or a victim support organisation can assist with reporting and meeting authorities.

What happens after I report the offence?

Police will take an initial statement and may open an investigation. They can collect forensic evidence, interview witnesses and the suspect, and forward the case to the public prosecutor. The prosecutor decides whether to bring charges. If charges are filed, the case may go to court. The process can take months or longer, depending on complexity.

Should I get a medical examination even if I do not want to involve the police?

Yes. A medical and forensic examination preserves physical evidence and documents injuries. You can have an exam without immediately reporting to police. Evidence collected and stored can later be given to investigators if you decide to press charges. A medical professional or specialised clinic can explain the procedure and your options.

What is Nebenklage and should I consider it?

Nebenklage allows a victim to participate in the criminal proceeding as a joint plaintiff with their own lawyer. It gives rights to information, to demand certain investigative steps, to ask questions at trial and to claim damages in court. A lawyer experienced in victim representation can advise whether Nebenklage is appropriate in your case.

What protections are there for children who are victims?

Children receive special legal protection. The Jugendamt will be involved to assess safety and care needs. Courts can use special hearing procedures to protect a child from repeated questioning and to allow testimony via video or with support persons present. Criminal law treats offences against minors with increased severity.

If I am accused, what immediate steps should I take?

If you are accused of sexual abuse, do not discuss the case with witnesses or on social media. Contact a criminal defence lawyer immediately before giving statements to police. You have the right to remain silent and to counsel. A lawyer will explain procedural steps and represent your interests.

Can I get a restraining order or other immediate protection?

Yes. Victims can seek civil protection orders, and the police can impose immediate measures like emergency contact bans. Courts can issue longer-term injunctions and protective orders. If you fear for your safety, contact the police or a lawyer right away and consider local shelters or crisis counselling.

How long do I have to file a complaint - is there a statute of limitations?

Statutes of limitations vary by offence and severity. Some serious sexual offences have long limitation periods or different rules when the victim is a minor. Time limits can be complex, so consult a lawyer promptly to understand deadlines that may apply to your case.

What kind of compensation can a victim receive?

Victims can pursue civil damages for pain and suffering and financial losses. There are also statutory victim compensation schemes and social support benefits for medical and psychological treatment. A lawyer or victim support service can explain how to apply and what evidence is needed.

Where can I get confidential counselling and support in Aurich?

Local counselling centres, women’s shelters, child protection services and victim support organisations provide confidential advice, counselling and practical help. National and regional NGOs specialising in sexual violence can also offer telephone and face-to-face support. If you are unsure where to turn, the police, hospital emergency departments or Jugendamt can point you to local specialised services.

Additional Resources

Local and regional institutions that can help include the Aurich police station, the public prosecutor's office in Aurich, Jugendamt Aurich and the local courts. In addition, national and regional organisations provide specialised support:

- Victim support organisations such as WEISSER RING offer counselling and practical help for victims of crime.

- Regional victim protection and counselling centres in Lower Saxony provide trauma-informed counselling and help with legal and medical referrals.

- Women’s shelters and counselling services offer safe accommodation and crisis support for victims of sexual and domestic violence.

- Medical services and hospital emergency departments or specialised forensic clinics perform medical examinations and document injuries.

- Child protection services and specialised child and youth counselling centres provide support when minors are affected.

Contacting the police or your local Jugendamt will also connect you to regionally available services in Aurich. A local lawyer with experience in sexual offences can direct you to the most appropriate resources for your situation.

Next Steps

If you or someone you care about is facing sexual abuse in Aurich, consider the following practical steps:

- Ensure immediate safety - if there is an ongoing threat, call the police or go to a safe place. If you are in immediate danger, contact emergency services.

- Seek medical attention - a medical examination is important for your health and for evidence preservation. You can request a forensic examination even if you are undecided about reporting.

- Preserve evidence - avoid showering, changing clothes or cleaning the scene if possible. Keep any physical evidence and messages or images related to the incident, and secure electronic devices.

- Consider reporting - you can report to the police directly, or ask a lawyer or victim support organisation to assist with the report.

- Get legal advice - contact a lawyer experienced in sexual offences and victims’ rights for confidential guidance about criminal and civil options. If you are accused, get a defence lawyer immediately.

- Use support services - specialised counselling, shelters and victim support organisations offer emotional support, practical assistance and help navigating the legal process.

- Keep records - document dates, times, witnesses, medical visits and contacts with authorities. This record is useful for legal and support services.

This guide is intended to provide general information and practical guidance. It does not replace personalised legal advice. If you need help understanding your rights or making decisions, consult a qualified lawyer in Aurich or a specialised victim support organisation as soon as possible.