Best Sexual Abuse Lawyers in Sintra

About Sexual Abuse Law in Sintra, Portugal

This guide gives an accessible overview of how sexual abuse is treated under Portuguese law and how the system operates locally in Sintra. Sexual violence and sexual abuse are criminal matters handled under the Portuguese Penal Code and prosecuted by the Public Ministry. Cases are investigated by the local police services - typically the Polícia de Segurança Pública in urban areas - and may involve medical and forensic examinations at local hospitals. Victims have specific rights to protection, medical care and support during the criminal process. If you are directly affected, the information below explains common legal steps, options and resources so you can act safely and with knowledge of your rights.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may want to consult a lawyer for many reasons if you are involved in a sexual abuse matter. A lawyer can explain your legal rights, help you decide whether to report to the police, accompany you through criminal investigations, request protective measures, represent you in court, and - if you choose - bring a civil claim for compensation. Lawyers also protect your procedural rights during questioning, help preserve and present evidence, and guide interactions with doctors, social services and prosecutors. Whether you are a victim seeking protection and compensation or a person accused of an offence, prompt legal advice can be critical.

Local Laws Overview

Key legal points relevant in Sintra and across Portugal include:

- Types of offences: Portuguese criminal law distinguishes a range of sexual offences, from non-consensual sexual acts to sexual abuse of minors and exploitation. The law treats serious violence, threats or the use of weapons as aggravating circumstances.

- Consent and age: The general age of sexual consent in Portugal is 14. Sexual activity with children under that age is a criminal offence. Sexual relations involving young people aged 14 to 16 can still raise criminal liability if there is exploitation, abuse of authority, or other coercive or abusive circumstances.

- Protection for minors and vulnerable people: There are special protections and reporting duties when victims are children or vulnerable adults. Child protection agencies and courts can take urgent steps to secure the victim's safety.

- Criminal procedure: After a complaint is made, police investigate and collect evidence. The Public Ministry decides whether to bring charges. Victims are treated as injured parties with the option to participate in the prosecution and to request compensation through criminal or separate civil proceedings.

- Protective measures: Courts can impose immediate measures to protect victims - for example banning the perpetrator from contacting the victim, ordering removal from a shared home, or imposing custody arrangements. Emergency measures can be requested through the police or prosecutor.

- Victim rights and support: Victims have the right to medical care, psychological support, legal information and assistance. There are schemes for free legal aid for those who qualify financially.

Frequently Asked Questions

What behaviour counts as sexual abuse under Portuguese law?

Sexual abuse covers sexual acts carried out without consent, any sexual conduct with children under the age of consent, and sexual exploitation or coercion. The law recognises a spectrum of offences including rape, sexual coercion, abuse of a minor, and acts that take advantage of a person's incapacity to resist or to consent.

What is the age of sexual consent in Portugal?

The general age of sexual consent in Portugal is 14. Sexual relations with people younger than 14 are criminal offences. Even with 14 to 16 year olds, sexual conduct can be criminal if there is exploitation, abuse of authority, or other coercion. A lawyer can advise on the precise circumstances that matter in any case.

Should I report sexual abuse to the police?

Reporting is often the right choice to ensure safety, obtain medical care and preserve evidence. It is also the way to start a criminal investigation and to access protective measures. However, reporting is a personal decision and can be difficult. If you are unsure, you can speak first with a victim support organisation, a lawyer or a health professional who can explain your options and help you update a safety plan.

How do I preserve evidence after an assault?

Try not to wash, shower or change clothes before a medical examination, if it is safe to do so. Store any clothing in a paper bag if possible. Seek medical attention quickly so forensic samples can be collected. Write down details of the event - names, times, places and witnesses - as soon as you are able, as these notes help later. A lawyer or victim support service can advise on evidence handling.

What happens after I make a complaint?

Police will record your statement and may open an investigation. You may be referred for a medical and forensic examination. The prosecutor will review the investigation and decide whether to press charges. If charges are brought, the case moves through the criminal courts. You can request to be informed of progress and to be supported during the process. The prosecutor can also impose protective or emergency measures while the case is ongoing.

Can I get a restraining order or emergency protection?

Yes. Portuguese courts can grant measures to protect victims, such as banning contact, ordering the perpetrator to leave a shared home, or imposing limits on proximity. Police or a lawyer can ask the prosecutor or a judge to impose urgent protective measures if there is immediate risk.

Can I remain anonymous when reporting?

While you can ask for personal data to be treated confidentially, criminal prosecutions are public processes. Authorities and support services can limit public disclosure of identifying details and can arrange for privacy during interviews and hearings. Victim support organisations can help manage confidentiality concerns when you report.

What support is available for medical and emotional needs?

Medical care is available through the national health service; emergency departments can perform forensic examinations and treat injuries. Psychological support and counselling are provided by NGOs and specialised services. Local hospitals and victim support organisations can quickly connect a victim to appropriate medical and mental health care.

How long do I have to report an offence - is there a time limit?

Time limits - the statute of limitations - vary with the nature and seriousness of the offence. More serious crimes typically have longer or no limitation periods. Because timelines differ, it is important to seek advice promptly if you are considering reporting. Even if a long time has passed, prosecutors can sometimes pursue serious offences.

How can I find a lawyer and can I get legal aid?

Look for lawyers experienced in criminal law and victim rights. The local bar association can help you find qualified lawyers. If you have limited financial means, you may be eligible for legal aid - chamado apoio judiciário - which can cover all or part of legal costs. When you contact a lawyer, ask about initial consultation fees, case strategy, likely timelines and whether legal aid is available.

Additional Resources

If you need help in Sintra consider contacting the following types of organisations and bodies - they can provide support, information and referrals to legal help:

- National and local police services - for immediate safety and to file criminal complaints.

- Public Ministry - the prosecuting authority that oversees criminal investigations.

- Local hospitals with emergency and forensic services - for medical care and evidence collection.

- Associação Portuguesa de Apoio à Vítima - national victim support organisation providing counselling and legal information.

- Comissão para a Cidadania e Igualdade de Género - works on gender-based violence prevention and support services.

- Ordem dos Advogados - the Portuguese bar association, which can help locate lawyers and explain legal aid procedures.

- Social services and municipal victim support offices - they can help with housing, protection and referrals to specialised services.

- Provedor de Justiça - for questions about systemic rights protections and complaints about public services.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance or are dealing with sexual abuse in Sintra, a practical sequence of steps is:

- Prioritise immediate safety - move to a safe place and contact police if you are in danger.

- Seek medical attention as soon as possible - for both health and evidence preservation.

- Preserve potential evidence - do not change clothes or clean wounds before a medical exam if it is safe not to.

- Consider reporting to the police - you can do this with the support of a victim organisation or lawyer.

- Contact a lawyer experienced in sexual offences - ask about confidentiality, next steps and options for legal aid.

- Reach out to victim support services for emotional support and to help coordinate medical, social and legal assistance.

- Keep a written record of everything you remember - dates, times, messages and witnesses - and keep copies of documents or communications that may be relevant.

- If you are unsure how to start, call a victim support organisation or a lawyer for an initial consultation to learn your options without committing to immediate legal action.

Legal situations involving sexual abuse are often complex and emotionally difficult. This guide provides general information only. For advice tailored to your situation contact a qualified lawyer or a recognised victim support organisation in Sintra as soon as possible.