Domestic violence is one of the most acute and complex problems requiring immediate and specialized legal response. Supporting domestic violence victims involves not only criminal prosecution against the abuser but also ensuring the physical safety of the victim (and often children). In Georgia, legislation strictly protects victims of domestic violence, but activating real protection mechanisms — from restraining orders to the imprisonment of the abuser — requires a qualified lawyer. The lawyer helps the victim escape the abusive environment, obtain legal guarantees, and start a new life. This service covers physical, psychological, economic, and sexual violence between family members. It is important to know that the law protects not only spouses but also partners, parents, children, and other relatives.
Lawyer services during domestic violence
Specialized lawyers provide multi-layered protection:
- Restraining and protective orders: The lawyer promptly petitions the police for a restraining order and, if necessary, the court for a protective order, which prohibits the abuser from approaching the victim.
- Initiating criminal prosecution: The lawyer ensures that the case is opened under Article 126¹ of the Criminal Code and that proper charges are brought against the abuser.
- Safety plan: Developing a safety plan together with the client, including coordinating transfer to a shelter.
- Divorce and children: Parallel to the violence case, the lawyer manages the divorce process and child custody issues to ensure children are protected from the abusive parent.
- Property disputes: Economic violence often accompanies physical violence. The lawyer fights for the division of co-owned property and alimony.
Forms of violence and situations
Legal assistance extends to all forms of violence:
- Physical violence: Beating, bodily injury, threats with a weapon.
- Psychological violence: Systematic insults, blackmail, humiliation, isolation from friends and family.
- Economic violence: Restricting access to finances, prohibiting work, sole disposal of property.
- Stalking: When a former or current partner illegally surveils the victim and disturbs their peace.
Legal framework in Georgia
Legislation includes:
- Law on the Elimination of Violence against Women and Domestic Violence: This is a special law defining protection mechanisms (orders, shelters).
- Criminal Code of Georgia (Article 126¹): Domestic violence is a separately criminalized act carrying stricter penalties than simple violence.
- Article 11¹ (Definition of family members): The law broadly defines a family member, including individuals in unregistered marriages.
How does the lawyer work?
The process involves:
- Rapid response: The lawyer gets involved immediately at the stage of calling the police or going to the station.
- Evidence gathering: Involving a social worker, obtaining a psychological report, securing electronic correspondence.
- Court defense: Demanding imprisonment for the abuser and representing the victim''s interests in court trials.
Find safety on Legal.ge
Legal.ge offers access to lawyers who have special experience and sensitivity in working with domestic violence victims. We understand the complexity of your situation and offer professionals who will help you overcome fear and achieve safety through legal means. Do not remain silent - contact a lawyer today.
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