Threatened, stalked or experiencing violence? Apply for protection
You are threatened, followed or have experienced violence, from a partner, ex or another person? You are not without protection. The Protection from Violence Act allows swift court protection orders, often within a few days.
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What you should do now
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1. In acute danger: police (110)
In an acute threat situation, your protection comes first. The police can intervene immediately and issue bans.
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2. Secure evidence
Document incidents (date, sequence), injuries (medical certificate), messages and calls, and name witnesses.
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3. Apply for a protection order
Apply to the family court for a protection order (contact or no-approach order, and possibly assignment of the home), also as an urgent application.
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4. Get help
Women's shelters, the violence-against-women helpline (08000 116 016) and counseling centers offer free and confidential support; procedural legal aid may be available for the proceedings.
Frequently asked questions
What can I do against a violent or stalking person?
You can apply to the family court for protection orders under the Protection from Violence Act, for example a ban on approaching you, contacting you or being present at your home or workplace (§ 1 GewSchG). In the case of a shared home, its assignment to you is also possible (§ 2 GewSchG).
Can this happen quickly?
Yes. In urgent danger the court can decide very quickly in interim proceedings (an interim order). In an acute threat, first call the police (110), who can bar the perpetrator from the home and issue an initial no-approach order.
Take action now
We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.
General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.