Best Sexual Harassment Lawyers in Goslar

Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.

Free. Takes 2 min.

We haven't listed any Sexual Harassment lawyers in Goslar, Germany yet...

But you can share your requirements with us, and we will help you find the right lawyer for your needs in Goslar

Find a Lawyer in Goslar
AS SEEN ON

About Sexual Harassment Law in Goslar, Germany

Sexual harassment in Goslar, Germany is addressed through a mix of criminal, civil and employment law. Conduct that is sexual in nature and unwelcome - including unwanted touching, sexual comments, advances, requests for sexual favors and certain forms of online or verbal harassment - can lead to criminal charges, civil claims and employer liability. Criminal law covers more serious forms of sexual coercion, assault and rape. Employment and anti-discrimination law covers harassment at work and creates duties for employers to prevent and remedy harassment. Victims have options ranging from filing a police report to seeking an injunction or damages, and support services are available locally and regionally.

This guide explains when you might need a lawyer, which laws and procedures are most relevant in Goslar, practical steps to protect yourself and your claims, and where to find local help.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may need a lawyer for many reasons when sexual harassment affects you. If the conduct could be a criminal offence - for example unwanted sexual touching, assault or violent coercion - a lawyer can help you file a criminal complaint and represent your interests in contact with the police and public prosecutor. If the harassment happened at work, a lawyer with employment law experience can advise on the employer's duties under the General Equal Treatment Act - Allgemeines Gleichbehandlungsgesetz - and on civil remedies including injunctive relief, transfer or damages.

A lawyer can also help preserve and present evidence, advise about restraining orders or interim injunctions, represent you as a Nebenkläger - a joint plaintiff - in criminal proceedings if appropriate, and help you obtain compensation for medical or psychological treatment, lost earnings and pain and suffering. Legal counsel is particularly important where there is disagreement about the facts, where you fear retaliation, or where you need to negotiate a settlement or prepare for court.

Local Laws Overview

Key legal frameworks that apply in Goslar mirror federal German law. Important aspects include:

- Criminal law (Strafgesetzbuch - StGB): Serious sexual acts such as sexual coercion, assault and rape are criminal offences. Depending on the behaviour, other criminal provisions such as bodily harm or coercion may also apply. Filing a police report starts the criminal process and the public prosecutor decides on charges.

- Employment and anti-discrimination law: The General Equal Treatment Act - Allgemeines Gleichbehandlungsgesetz (AGG) - protects employees from sexual harassment and discrimination at work. Employers have an active duty to take reasonable measures to prevent and stop harassment once they know or should know about it. Remedies can include internal measures, transfers, disciplinary action, or claims for damages under civil law.

- Civil law remedies: Under the German Civil Code - Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) - victims can seek injunctive relief to stop harassment, damages for harm suffered and compensation for pain and suffering. The regular limitation period for many civil claims is three years from the end of the year in which the injured person became aware of the claim and the identity of the liable party.

- Procedural rights for victims: Victims have specific rights in criminal proceedings, including the right to be heard, to protection measures and, in many cases, the option to be represented as a Nebenkläger with a lawyer who can be compensated by the state in certain circumstances. Local victim support services can also help with practical and psychological assistance.

Because Goslar is part of Lower Saxony, regional victim support and public offices follow state-level rules and procedures. The local police station, the public prosecutor's office and the local court handle reports and procedures arising within the district.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as sexual harassment under German law?

Sexual harassment covers unwelcome behaviour of a sexual nature that violates your dignity. Examples include unwanted touching, sexual comments, explicit messages, requests for sexual favors linked to work or benefits, leering, and persistent unwelcome advances. Whether behaviour amounts to an offence or a civil wrong depends on severity, context and intent.

Should I contact the police right away?

If you are in immediate danger call emergency services - dial 110. For non-urgent but serious incidents such as sexual assault or violent coercion it is advisable to report the incident to the police so an official record is created and possible forensic evidence can be preserved. For workplace harassment you can also follow internal complaint procedures while considering a simultaneous police report if the behaviour is criminal.

How should I preserve evidence?

Record dates, times, locations and descriptions of incidents, and collect any messages, photos or recordings. Keep clothing and items as they are, and consider a medical examination as soon as possible after an assault to document injuries and preserve forensic evidence. Obtain witness names and statements when possible. Your lawyer can help ensure evidence is preserved properly.

Can I bring criminal charges as a victim?

Criminal proceedings in Germany are generally initiated by the public prosecutor after you file a police report or make a statement. As a victim you can ask the police to document the incident and supply evidence. In certain cases you can participate as a Nebenkläger - joint plaintiff - with your own lawyer to safeguard your interests during criminal proceedings.

What remedies are available if the harassment occurred at work?

If harassment takes place at work, the employer has a duty to act. Remedies can include internal investigations, protective measures, reassignment or termination of the perpetrator, and compensation for the victim where the employer failed in its duty to prevent or stop the harassment. A lawyer with employment law experience can advise on filing claims under the AGG and the BGB.

How long do I have to bring a claim?

Limitation periods differ between criminal and civil claims. Many civil claims for damages follow the regular three-year limitation period under the BGB, counted from the end of the year in which you knew about the injury and the responsible party. Criminal statutes of limitation depend on the severity of the offence and can vary widely. Consult a lawyer promptly to avoid losing rights through expired deadlines.

Can I get a restraining order or protection order in Goslar?

Yes. If you fear immediate danger the police can take measures and you can apply to the local court for an injunction - an immediate civil protection order - to prohibit contacts or approach. In criminal cases protective measures such as custody orders or exclusion from a shared home may also be sought. Legal advice is helpful to select the fastest and most effective option.

Will I need to testify in court?

If the public prosecutor presses charges, victims often testify as witnesses. If you participate as a Nebenkläger you may have additional rights to be heard and to question the accused through your lawyer. Courts can take steps to protect victims during testimony, including closed sessions or special arrangements to reduce trauma.

Can I get financial help for counseling or legal costs?

There are several potential sources of support. State or regional victim compensation schemes may cover certain expenses. Legal aid - Beratungshilfe or Prozesskostenhilfe - can help in civil matters for eligible persons. If you become a Nebenkläger in serious criminal cases your lawyer fees may be partially or fully covered. Local victim support organisations can advise on available funding and practical support.

How do I pick the right lawyer?

Choose a lawyer who specialises in the relevant area - criminal law for assault, employment law for workplace harassment or civil tort law for damages and injunctions. Look for experience with victim representation, clear communication, and sensitivity to trauma. Ask about initial consultation fees, likely next steps and possible costs. The local bar association can provide referrals and information about Fachanwalt - specialist lawyer - qualifications.

Additional Resources

Below are types of local and regional resources that can help people in Goslar. Contact these organisations for immediate support, counselling and legal information.

- Local police station in Goslar for immediate incidents and to file a report.

- Amtsgericht Goslar - local court for civil protection orders and injunctions.

- Public prosecutor's office responsible for the Goslar district for criminal prosecutions.

- The Gleichstellungsstelle or equal opportunities office at the Landkreis Goslar for advice on workplace discrimination and local support measures.

- National and regional victim support organisations such as Weisser Ring and regional Opferhilfe services for counseling, practical help and information about compensation.

- Local Frauenhaus and counselling centres for survivors of sexual violence for shelter, crisis counselling and safety planning.

- The Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency - Antidiskriminierungsstelle - for information about discriminatory treatment and legal remedies.

- Rechtsanwaltskammer Braunschweig for finding specialised lawyers and information about Fachanwalt qualifications and directory services.

- Healthcare providers and hospital emergency departments for medical examinations and forensic documentation following sexual assault.

Next Steps

If you have experienced sexual harassment in Goslar, these practical next steps can help protect your safety and legal rights.

1. Ensure immediate safety - remove yourself from danger and call emergency services if needed - dial 110.

2. Preserve evidence - keep messages, photos, clothing and other items; write a detailed record of the incident as soon as possible while memories are fresh; note names of witnesses.

3. Seek medical care - for injuries, sexually transmitted infection screening and, in cases of assault, forensic documentation. Medical records can be crucial evidence.

4. Consider reporting to the police - an official record enables criminal investigation and may trigger protective measures.

5. Use employer procedures - if the harassment is work-related, follow internal complaint channels while being mindful of evidence and possible retaliation. Notify HR or the employer's Gleichstellungsbeauftragte if available.

6. Contact victim support services for emotional support, safety planning and information about compensation and counselling.

7. Consult a specialised lawyer - a criminal lawyer for assault cases or an employment lawyer for workplace harassment can advise on strategy, preservation of evidence, injunctions and claims for damages. Ask about initial consultation procedures and whether legal aid is available.

8. Keep a record of all contacts, medical reports, police case numbers and communications with your employer and others.

9. Be aware of confidentiality and privacy - discuss publication or public disclosure of details with your lawyer, who can advise on protecting your privacy during proceedings.

Final note - the information in this guide is for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and procedures change and each case turns on its own facts. For advice tailored to your situation contact a qualified lawyer in Goslar or the surrounding region as soon as possible.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Goslar through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Sexual Harassment, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Goslar, Germany - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.