Information for victims

A legal rights protection officer is a lawyer who is responsible for protecting the interests of the victim and providing him/her with assistance in the case, including in submitting a claim for compensation. The remuneration of the legal advisor shall be paid by the Treasury.

For example, a legal rights protection officer is present when the victim gives a statement to the police and in court where he or she is held in trust. A legal rights protection officer shall also explain the procedure to the victim. A legal rights protection officer may gather information on behalf of the victim regarding the status and handling of the case from the police and the prosecution. A legal rights protection officer shall have the right to be present when the victim's case is brought before the court.

When is a victim entitled to a legal rights protection officer?

In the case of sexual offences, the victim has the right to have a legal advisor appointed to investigate the case, if he or she so requests. If the victim of a sexual offence is under the age of 18, he or she shall always be appointed legal advisor.

In addition, in cases involving other violent offences and violations of personal freedom, the injured party may have the right to obtain, upon the request of the appointed legal advisor, provided that certain conditions are met, see Article 41 of the Criminal Procedure Act, No. 88/2008, for further details.