Best Sexual Harassment Lawyers in Tommerup

About Sexual Harassment Law in Tommerup, Denmark

Sexual harassment in Tommerup is governed by Danish law - the same national rules that apply throughout Denmark. The legal framework includes criminal provisions for unwanted sexual conduct, workplace rules that require employers to prevent and address harassment, and anti-discrimination rules that cover harassment in employment, education and access to services. In practice this means a person who is subjected to unwelcome sexual advances, comments, physical contact or other degrading behaviour can pursue criminal complaints, workplace complaints, or civil claims for damages. Tommerup is a small town in Assens Municipality, so local responses will typically involve the nearest police station, the municipal social services, local health services and any local unions or employers.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may need a lawyer if you want professional help with any of the following situations - making a criminal report and following it through, seeking civil damages for harm caused by sexual harassment, obtaining protective measures, handling complex workplace complaints or disciplinary hearings, pursuing claims under anti-discrimination law, or responding to accusations of harassment yourself. A lawyer can explain legal options, preserve evidence, represent you in police interviews or court, negotiate settlements, ensure procedural rights are protected, and help you understand the likely outcomes and risks.

Local Laws Overview

Key legal elements relevant in Tommerup include the Danish Penal Code - which criminalises serious sexual offences and certain forms of sexual assault. Sexual conduct that is non-consensual may lead to criminal charges, depending on the nature and severity.

The Working Environment Act places duties on employers to maintain a safe work environment - this includes preventing sexual harassment and taking documented action when complaints are raised. Employees have routes within their workplace, through safety representatives, and to the Danish Working Environment Authority if an employer fails to act.

Anti-discrimination and equal treatment rules protect people in employment, education and services from sexual harassment that is linked to sex, gender or other protected characteristics. Remedies can include complaints to equality bodies, compensation claims, and employer sanctions.

Victim support and medical-forensic examinations are available through hospitals and local support centres if a criminal sexual offence is involved. The police handle criminal investigations; other remedies - such as civil claims for damages or workplace-based procedures - are handled through courts, labour mediation systems or administrative complaint bodies.

Statutes of limitation, procedural rules and available remedies vary with the exact nature of the behaviour and the legal pathway chosen - criminal, civil or administrative - so early legal advice is important.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as sexual harassment under Danish law?

Sexual harassment generally covers unwanted sexual remarks, behaviour, touching, requests for sexual favours, or any conduct of a sexual nature that violates a person’s dignity. The precise legal categorisation depends on context - workplace harassment, criminal sexual assault, and discrimination-based harassment each have different legal tests and remedies.

Is sexual harassment always a criminal offence?

Not always. Some acts - especially physical or coercive acts - can be criminal offences under the Danish Penal Code. Other forms of harassment may be primarily workplace or civil matters, handled through employer procedures, equality complaint bodies or civil claims for damages. Whether an act is criminal depends on severity, context and consent.

How do I report sexual harassment in Tommerup?

You can report criminal conduct to the police at the nearest police station serving Tommerup. For workplace issues, report to your manager, human resources, union representative, or safety delegate. You can also contact the municipal social services or local victim support organisations for help and guidance.

What should I do to preserve evidence?

Keep records of messages, emails, photos and times and dates of incidents. Save clothing if it is relevant and avoid washing or altering it. Make contemporaneous notes about what happened and who witnessed it. If you seek medical care after an assault, inform medical staff about a forensic examination - this preserves physical evidence for police use.

Can my employer discipline the harasser?

Yes. Employers have a duty to investigate complaints and take appropriate action, which can include warnings, reassignment or dismissal depending on the severity. Employers should follow fair procedures and document their steps. If an employer fails to act, you may have routes to complain to labour authorities or take legal action.

Will reporting lead to a police investigation?

If you report a potential criminal offence to the police, they will assess and may open an investigation. Whether charges are brought depends on the evidence and the public prosecutor’s assessment. You are entitled to receive information about the progress of a criminal investigation and to be informed of the outcome.

Can I get a restraining order or protective measure?

Protective measures may be available through the police or courts in cases of threats or ongoing danger. The availability and type of order depend on the circumstances. A lawyer or victim support service can explain options such as emergency protection, contact bans or civil injunctions.

How long do I have to bring a claim?

Time limits vary by the type of claim and the seriousness of the offence. Criminal cases and civil claims have different limitation periods. Because time limits can affect your rights to seek justice, you should seek advice promptly if you are considering a complaint or claim.

Can a union help me with a workplace sexual harassment case?

Yes. Unions often provide advice, representation in meetings and hearings, and legal assistance to members. They can support internal complaints, help gather evidence, and negotiate with employers. If you are a union member, contact your union early in the process.

Where can I get confidential support and counselling?

Confidential support is available through victim support organisations, crisis centres and counselling services. Municipal social services can also provide guidance on local options. If you need immediate safety, call the police. For emotional and practical support, seek established victim support or specialised sexual violence counselling services.

Additional Resources

When seeking help in Tommerup consider these types of resources - the local police station for reporting crimes, the Danish Working Environment Authority for workplace matters, equality bodies and human rights organisations for discrimination issues, municipal social services in Assens Kommune for local support, victim support organisations and crisis centres for immediate practical and emotional help, hospitals for medical and forensic examinations after assault, trade unions for workplace representation, and the Danish Bar and Law Society or local lawyers if you need legal representation.

Next Steps

1. Ensure immediate safety - if you are in danger call the police right away.

2. Seek medical care if needed - this can also preserve forensic evidence if a criminal offence occurred.

3. Document the incidents - save messages, take notes, list witnesses and dates.

4. Contact local support - victim support, a crisis centre or your municipal social services can provide practical and emotional help.

5. Report to the police if you wish to pursue criminal charges - ask about how evidence will be collected and the investigation process.

6. Notify your employer or union for workplace harassment - use internal complaint channels and keep copies of communications.

7. Get legal advice - a lawyer with experience in sexual harassment, employment law or criminal law can explain options, help preserve rights and represent you where necessary.

8. Consider long-term needs - counselling, workplace adjustments, and civil remedies for damages may be appropriate depending on your situation.

If you are unsure where to begin, contact a local victim support organisation or a lawyer for a confidential initial consultation - they can help you prioritise steps and connect you with the right local services in Tommerup and Assens Municipality.