Best Sexual Abuse Lawyers in Tétouan

About Sexual Abuse Law in Tétouan, Morocco

Sexual abuse is a criminal offense in Morocco and includes a range of conduct such as rape, sexual assault, indecent acts, sexual harassment in public or online spaces, exploitation of minors, and trafficking for sexual purposes. In Tétouan, cases are handled by the local police or Royal Gendarmerie, the Public Prosecutor, and the courts of first instance or appeal depending on the seriousness of the offense. Moroccan law provides for investigation, prosecution, penalties, and measures to protect victims, including emergency protection orders in some situations. Survivors can also seek civil compensation for harm suffered.

This guide offers general information to help you understand your options if you experienced or were accused of sexual abuse in Tétouan. It is not a substitute for legal advice tailored to your situation.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

A lawyer can help you understand your rights, navigate police and court procedures, and protect your interests at each stage of a case. Survivors often need legal assistance to file a complaint, request a protection order, preserve and present evidence, claim compensation, and avoid re-traumatization during interviews and hearings. Those accused need a lawyer to ensure fair process, challenge unlawful procedures, prepare a defense, and seek bail or alternative measures where appropriate.

Common situations where legal help is crucial include reporting a recent assault, addressing ongoing threats or harassment, incidents involving minors, cases within families or intimate partners, workplace or school harassment, cross-border or online offenses, and when immigration, language, or disability concerns require additional safeguards. Legal counsel is also important if you wish to file a direct complaint to an investigating judge, join a criminal case as a civil party to claim damages, or negotiate protective measures and safe housing.

Local Laws Overview

Criminal Code provisions address sexual offenses such as rape and sexual assault with aggravating factors when the victim is a minor, has a disability, is pregnant, or when there is group participation or use of weapons. Rape is punished as a felony. Indecent assault with violence and indecent acts against minors are punishable even without proof of full intercourse. Attempt and complicity are also punishable.

Law 103-13 on combating violence against women strengthened protections in 2018. It criminalized certain forms of harassment in public spaces, expanded penalties for some offenses, created protection orders, and formalized institutional coordination for victim support. Although marital rape is not expressly named in the code, forced sexual acts with violence or threats are criminal offenses regardless of the relationship between the parties.

Sexual harassment is an offense and can include repeated unwanted comments, gestures, or acts in public spaces, workplaces, educational institutions, and via electronic means. Online harassment and the non-consensual sharing of intimate images are punishable under relevant criminal provisions.

Moroccan law strictly protects minors. Sexual acts with minors, corruption of minors, exploitation, grooming, production or possession of child sexual abuse material, and facilitating prostitution of minors are criminal offenses with severe penalties. The anti-trafficking law addresses exploitation, including sexual exploitation, with significant penalties and victim protection measures.

Procedure in Tétouan generally involves reporting to the National Police in urban areas or the Royal Gendarmerie in rural areas, or directly to the Public Prosecutor at the Tribunal de Première Instance. The prosecutor can open an investigation, order a medical examination, and refer the matter to an investigating judge for serious felonies. Courts can issue protection orders under Law 103-13, including eviction of the aggressor from the home, no-contact orders, and restrictions on approaching the victim.

Medical evidence is often important. A medical certificate from a public hospital or authorized forensic unit documents injuries and incapacity days, which can affect charges and penalties. Preserve clothing and communications, and avoid washing or altering the scene if safe to do so. Witness testimony, electronic messages, call logs, photos, and prior reports can also be relevant evidence.

Limitation periods vary by offense category. Serious felonies generally have longer limitation periods than misdemeanors. For offenses against minors, special rules may delay the start of the limitation period until the victim reaches adulthood. Always confirm current deadlines with a lawyer because time limits can change and exceptions may apply.

Victims can seek compensation by joining the criminal case as a civil party or by filing a civil claim. Legal aid may be available for low-income individuals. Proceedings are conducted in Arabic, with French widely used in written procedure. Interpretation can be requested when needed, including for Spanish or other languages common in Tétouan.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as sexual abuse under Moroccan law

Sexual abuse includes rape, attempted rape, sexual assault with or without violence, indecent acts, sexual harassment in public or online, exploitation or corruption of minors, and trafficking for sexual purposes. Consent is central. Acts committed through violence, threats, coercion, or against persons unable to consent are criminal. Sexual acts with minors are criminal even if the minor does not resist or appears to consent.

How do I report sexual abuse in Tétouan

You can file a complaint at the nearest National Police station in the city, with the Royal Gendarmerie in surrounding rural areas, or directly with the Public Prosecutor at the Tribunal de Première Instance of Tétouan. If you are in immediate danger, prioritize safety and contact emergency services. Bring any evidence you have and ask for a receipt of your complaint. You can also ask to be accompanied by a lawyer or a trusted support person.

What should I do immediately after an assault

If possible, go to a safe place and seek urgent medical care. A timely medical examination helps address health concerns and collect forensic evidence. Try not to wash, change clothes, or clean the scene before the exam if you can do so safely. Keep messages, call logs, and any other evidence. Consider contacting a lawyer or a victim support organization to guide you through next steps.

Do I need a medical certificate

A medical certificate is often crucial. Public hospitals and authorized forensic units can issue certificates that document injuries and incapacity days, which can influence charges and sentencing. Even if there are no visible injuries, a medical exam can record findings and provide access to care, including emergency contraception, STI testing, and mental health support.

Will my complaint remain confidential

Investigations are not public, and authorities must respect privacy, especially for minors. Court hearings in sexual offenses may be held in camera in certain circumstances to protect victims. Discuss confidentiality concerns with your lawyer and the authorities. Avoid sharing case details on social media to protect your privacy and the integrity of the case.

Can I get a protection order

Yes. Under Law 103-13, courts can issue protection orders that may include removal of the aggressor from the home, no-contact orders, restrictions on approaching the victim, and temporary custody measures. A lawyer can help you request an order quickly. Breach of a protection order is a criminal offense.

How long do I have to file a complaint

Time limits depend on the offense. Felonies generally have longer limitation periods than misdemeanors. Some offenses against minors benefit from rules that delay the start of limitation until the victim turns 18. Because deadlines can change and specific facts matter, consult a lawyer as soon as possible to preserve your rights.

Can I withdraw my complaint

In serious sexual offenses, the Public Prosecutor can continue the case even if the victim wishes to withdraw, because the state prosecutes crimes in the public interest. In some harassment or minor offenses, victim withdrawal can affect the case. Always speak with a lawyer before deciding, as withdrawing could impact your protection and compensation claims.

What if the abuser is a spouse or family member

The law protects victims regardless of family ties. Forced sexual acts and violence are criminal even within marriage or families. Courts can issue protection orders, and the prosecutor can bring charges. If you share a home, a judge can order the aggressor to leave. Specialized units and associations can help with shelter and safety planning.

Can foreigners or tourists file complaints and get help

Yes. Foreign nationals have the right to report crimes and access protection in Morocco. Interpretation can be requested. If you need to return home, coordinate with your lawyer and your consulate to preserve evidence and arrange representation so your case can proceed.

Additional Resources

Public Prosecutor at the Tribunal de Première Instance of Tétouan. You can submit complaints directly to the prosecutor or via police or gendarmerie. The prosecutor can order medical exams, protection measures, and investigations.

National Police stations in Tétouan and Royal Gendarmerie posts in surrounding areas. Ask for the specialized unit for family and women protection where available, and request a written receipt of your complaint.

Regional health services and public hospitals in Tétouan. They provide urgent care, forensic examinations, and medical certificates that may be required by the prosecutor or court.

Ministry of Solidarity, Social Inclusion and Family. Local directorates and listening centers coordinate shelters, psychosocial support, and guidance for women and children facing violence.

Regional Commission of the National Human Rights Council for Tangier-Tétouan-Al Hoceima. Receives complaints related to rights violations and can provide guidance and referrals.

Bar Association of Tétouan. Can help you find a lawyer experienced in criminal law and victim protection and advise on eligibility for legal aid for low-income individuals.

Local women’s rights associations and listening centers in Tétouan. They offer accompaniment for filing complaints, psychosocial support, shelter referrals, and court navigation. Ask the prosecutor’s office or hospital social workers for current contact details.

Organizations focused on child protection, including national child helpline services and centers supported by the Observatoire National des Droits de l’Enfant. They can assist with reporting, emergency protection, and access to specialized services for minors.

Next Steps

Prioritize safety. Go to a safe place and seek urgent medical care to protect your health and preserve evidence. Ask the medical team for a certificate documenting findings, and keep copies of all documents.

Report the incident as soon as you can to the police, the Royal Gendarmerie, or directly to the Public Prosecutor in Tétouan. Request a written acknowledgment of your complaint and note the reference number if provided.

Contact a lawyer experienced in sexual offenses. Ask about immediate protective measures, your rights during interviews, and how to claim compensation. If cost is a concern, inquire about legal aid through the Bar Association or court services.

Preserve evidence. Save clothing in separate paper bags, keep messages, call logs, photos, and witness details, and write a timeline of events while memories are fresh. Do not communicate with the suspected aggressor.

Ask the court for a protection order if you feel unsafe. A lawyer or support organization can help you prepare the request and gather required documents.

Seek psychosocial support. Hospitals, social services, and local associations can connect you with counseling and safe housing if needed.

Stay informed about your case. Attend scheduled appointments, keep contact with your lawyer, and update authorities if your address or phone number changes.

This guide is informational. Laws and procedures can change. For advice on your specific situation in Tétouan, consult a qualified lawyer.