Domestic Violence Protections in Denmark
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Danish Acts of Parliament (love), executive orders (bekendtgørelser), and official government guidance. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
Danish law provides criminal and civil protections against domestic violence:
- Criminal offence: Domestic violence is prosecuted under the general assault provisions of the Criminal Code — there is no separate domestic violence statute, but prosecutors apply these provisions to intimate partner violence.
- Restraining orders (tilhold): Police can issue an immediate restraining order prohibiting the abuser from contacting or approaching you. The court reviews it within 24 hours.
- Eviction from shared home (bortvisning): Police can remove the abuser from the shared residence for up to 4 weeks (renewable).
- Crisis centres (krisecentre): Under the Social Services Act § 109, municipalities must offer temporary shelter in crisis centres for women and children fleeing violence.
- Free legal aid: Victims of violence are entitled to a victim's lawyer (bistandsadvokat) at no cost.
When does it apply?
- You are experiencing physical, psychological, or sexual violence from a partner, ex-partner, or family member.
- You need immediate protection or a safe place to stay.
What to Do If You Are Experiencing Domestic Violence in Denmark
- Call 112 if you are in immediate danger.
- Contact a crisis centre — call the national domestic violence hotline at 1888 (24/7) for guidance and placement.
- Ask police for a restraining order (tilhold) and/or eviction of the abuser from the home.
- Request a victim's lawyer (bistandsadvokat) — the court appoints one for free.
- Document injuries with photos and medical records.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't stay silent — domestic violence is a criminal offence and help is available.
- Don't return to the abuser without a safety plan — crisis centres can help you plan your exit.
- Don't destroy evidence — text messages, photos of injuries, and medical records are critical for prosecution.
Common Questions
What should I do in an immediate domestic violence emergency in Denmark?
Call 112 if you are in immediate danger. For guidance and placement in a crisis centre (krisecenter), call the national domestic violence hotline at 1888, which is free and available 24/7. Municipalities must offer temporary shelter for women and children fleeing violence under Serviceloven § 109.
Can I get a restraining order against an abusive partner in Denmark?
Yes. Under the Tilholdsloven, police can issue an immediate restraining order (tilhold) prohibiting the abuser from contacting or approaching you. The court reviews it within 24 hours. Police can also remove the abuser from the shared residence (bortvisning) for up to 4 weeks, renewable.
Do I get a free lawyer as a Danish domestic violence victim?
Yes. Victims of violence are entitled to a victim's lawyer (bistandsadvokat) appointed by the court at no cost. Domestic violence is prosecuted under the general assault provisions of the Straffeloven (§§ 244-246). Document injuries with photos and medical records, and don't destroy evidence — messages, photos, and medical records are critical for prosecution.
When does it apply — domestic violence protections?
You are experiencing physical, psychological, or sexual violence from a partner, ex-partner, or family member.You need immediate protection or a safe place to stay.
What should I do if I am being abused by my partner and need to leave safely in Denmark?
Call 112 if you are in immediate danger.Contact a crisis centre — call the national domestic violence hotline at 1888 (24/7) for guidance and placement.Ask police for a restraining order (tilhold) and/or eviction of the abuser from the home.Request a victim's lawyer (bistandsadvokat) — the court appoints one for free.Document injuries with photos and medical records.
What should you NOT do — domestic violence protections?
Don't stay silent — domestic violence is a criminal offence and help is available.Don't return to the abuser without a safety plan — crisis centres can help you plan your exit.Don't destroy evidence — text messages, photos of injuries, and medical records are critical for prosecution.