Best Sexual Abuse Lawyers in Elliniko

About Sexual Abuse Law in Elliniko, Greece

Sexual abuse in Elliniko is governed by Greek national criminal and civil law. Elliniko is part of the Athens metropolitan area and all criminal statutes, victim protections and procedures that apply in Greece also apply there. Sexual abuse covers a range of conduct including rape, sexual assault, sexual acts with minors, sexual exploitation, online sexual crimes and trafficking for sexual purposes. Victims have both criminal remedies - reporting the matter to the police so the state can prosecute - and civil remedies - seeking compensation for physical and psychological harm. Special protections and adapted procedures often apply where the victim is a child or otherwise vulnerable.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may need a lawyer for many reasons after sexual abuse. Criminal cases involve formal police and prosecutorial procedures, complicated rules on evidence and time limits for filing complaints. A lawyer can help you understand whether a criminal complaint should be filed, prepare and submit evidence, represent you in interviews with the police and prosecutor, and act for you in court. If you are thinking of seeking compensation, a civil suit or a civil claim joined to a criminal case requires careful legal drafting and proof. Lawyers also help secure protection orders, manage interactions with child protection services, advise on reporting obligations and confidentiality, and assist non-Greek speakers or persons with disabilities to ensure their rights are respected.

Local Laws Overview

Key legal features relevant to sexual abuse cases in Elliniko include the following points. The Greek criminal code criminalizes non-consensual sexual acts and a range of other sexual offences, including acts against children and acts involving coercion or exploitation. Consent is a central legal concept - absence of consent is the basis for many prosecutions. There are enhanced protections for minors and separate offences that cover sexual activity with children or corrupting minors. Sexual exploitation and trafficking carry heavy criminal penalties and involve coordination with administrative and social services.

Procedurally, sexual offences are investigated by the police and prosecuted by the public prosecutor. For serious crimes the prosecutor can pursue the case even if the victim is hesitant. Victims are entitled to protections during the investigation and trial - these can include giving testimony in private settings, using intermediaries or special interview techniques for children, and requests for protective measures against the alleged abuser. Evidence commonly used includes medical and forensic examinations, witness statements, electronic messages and digital records, and expert psychological assessments.

There are also civil remedies - victims can claim damages for personal injury, pain and suffering, lost earnings and other consequences. Public legal aid may be available to eligible victims to cover legal representation and advice. Statutes of limitation and procedural deadlines apply and vary by the nature and severity of the offence - a local lawyer can explain timing for filing criminal complaints and civil claims.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as sexual abuse under Greek law?

Sexual abuse covers a wide range of conduct including rape, sexual assault, unwanted sexual touching, sexual coercion, sexual acts with minors, sexual exploitation, and trafficking for sexual purposes. The key elements are lack of consent, coercion or the sexual nature of the act combined with the vulnerability of the victim. Specific categories of offences and penalties are set out in national criminal statutes.

What is the age of consent and how are minors protected?

Greece has specific legal rules concerning sexual acts involving minors. While an age of consent applies to consensual sexual relations, the law also contains distinct offences for sexual activity with children and for corrupting or exploiting minors. Additional protections apply for anyone under 18 when it comes to exploitation, abuse by caregivers or professionals and online sexual offences. Because rules and exceptions can be complex, you should get a lawyer or child protection professional involved if a minor is affected.

How do I report sexual abuse in Elliniko?

You can report sexual abuse to the local police station, the national emergency services or directly to the public prosecutor's office. If a child is involved you can also contact local child protection services. Reports can be made in person; you should ask for an official record of the complaint. If you are unsure where to start, go to the nearest hospital emergency department for medical care and advice, or call the police and ask to be connected to the appropriate unit.

What should I do immediately after an assault?

First, ensure your immediate safety and move to a safe place. Seek medical attention right away - hospitals can treat injuries, prevent infections and provide emergency contraception where appropriate. Ask for a forensic medical examination if you want to preserve physical evidence - the sooner this is done the more useful the evidence will be. Try to avoid showering, changing clothes or deleting messages if you intend to report the incident. Write down what you remember and preserve any communications or items connected to the incident.

Will I have to go to court if I report the abuse?

Reporting may lead to an investigation and, depending on the prosecutor's assessment, criminal charges. If charges are brought, you will likely be required to give evidence. Greek courts have procedures to protect victims during testimony, including private sessions, the use of intermediaries for children and restrictions on direct contact with the accused. A lawyer can explain the process and prepare you for what to expect.

Can I get a protection order or similar measures?

Yes - victims can seek protective measures such as orders restraining the alleged abuser from approaching or contacting them. Protective measures can be issued by criminal or civil courts depending on the circumstances and urgency. In emergencies the police can also take immediate steps to keep a victim safe. Your lawyer can advise which route is most appropriate and help you apply for protection swiftly.

Can I get compensation for the harm I suffered?

Yes - victims can claim civil damages for physical injuries, psychological harm, loss of income and other consequences. Claims can be brought separately in civil court or joined to the criminal proceeding as a civil action. Proving damages requires documentation such as medical reports, psychological assessments and evidence of financial loss. Legal counsel will help calculate appropriate compensation and pursue the claim.

Will the police or prosecutor always press charges?

Not always - the decision to press charges is made by the public prosecutor after an investigation. For particularly serious offences the prosecutor can act even if the victim does not wish to press charges. For less serious matters the victim's cooperation is often critical. A lawyer can help present evidence to the prosecutor, ensure your statement is recorded correctly and advocate for charges where appropriate.

Are there services for victims such as counselling and legal aid?

Yes - victims can access medical care, psychological counselling and social support through public health services and specialised NGOs. Legal aid may be available to low-income victims so they can obtain legal advice and representation. If you need emotional support or legal assistance, ask police, hospitals or local social services about available victim support programs.

What if I am not a Greek citizen or I do not speak Greek?

Non-Greek citizens and people who do not speak Greek remain protected by Greek law. You have the right to an interpreter during police interviews and court proceedings. Embassies or consular services can assist non-citizens, and lawyers who work with international clients can help navigate the system. If you are undocumented, you can still report a crime and seek medical treatment and protection.

Additional Resources

When you need help in Elliniko, consider contacting the following types of services and bodies - they can provide immediate protection, medical care and longer term support: local police station and the public prosecutor's office for criminal reporting; the emergency department of the nearest hospital for medical and forensic examinations; municipal social services and child protection authorities for family and child-related cases; the national child protection centre and agencies that support trafficking victims; specialised non-governmental organisations that assist sexual abuse survivors with counselling and practical help; local bar associations or legal aid offices for help finding a lawyer; and embassy or consular assistance for non-Greek nationals. If you are unsure where to start, a hospital emergency department or the local police can advise on immediate next steps and referrals to support services.

Next Steps

If you or someone you care about has experienced sexual abuse in Elliniko follow these steps - they are general guidelines and a local lawyer or victim support service can provide tailored advice:

- Ensure immediate safety. If you are in danger call the police or go to a safe location.

- Seek medical care as soon as possible. Hospitals can treat injuries, address health risks and perform forensic examinations to preserve evidence.

- Preserve evidence. Avoid washing, changing clothes or deleting messages if you intend to report the incident. Keep phone records, messages, photos and clothing in a safe place.

- Report the incident to the police or public prosecutor when you are ready. You can get help from a lawyer, an advocate or a support organisation when making the report.

- Contact a lawyer experienced in sexual abuse cases. A lawyer can explain criminal and civil options, help obtain protection measures, represent you in proceedings and advise on time limits and evidence.

- Seek counselling and social support. Emotional recovery is important - specialised counsellors and support groups can assist you and your family.

- Ask about legal aid and interpreter services if you need them. You may be entitled to free legal representation or language assistance.

- Keep records of all medical reports, police statements, legal documents and any costs you incur. These will be important for criminal or civil proceedings.

If you are unsure how to proceed, reach out to local victim support services or a qualified lawyer - quick preservation of evidence and early legal advice often improve the chances of effective criminal or civil remedies. You do not have to face this alone - support and legal help are available in Elliniko and across Greece.