Rights of Crime Victims
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Danish Acts of Parliament (love), executive orders (bekendtgørelser), and official government guidance.
Danish National Law
What is this right?
If you are a victim of crime in Denmark, you have specific statutory rights:
- Right to information: Police must inform you about the progress of the investigation, your right to compensation, and victim support services.
- Victim's lawyer (bistandsadvokat): In cases of serious violence, sexual offences, or domestic abuse, you are entitled to a court-appointed lawyer free of charge.
- Compensation: You can claim compensation from the offender as part of the criminal case, or apply separately to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Board (Erstatningsnævnet).
- Protection: The court can impose restraining orders (tilhold) and other protective measures.
- Support: The national organisation Offerrådgivningen provides free emotional and practical support.
When does it apply?
- You are the victim of a criminal offence — violence, sexual offences, robbery, fraud, domestic abuse, etc.
- A family member of a homicide victim also has rights to a victim's lawyer and compensation.
What should you do?
- Report the crime to police — this is a prerequisite for most compensation claims.
- Ask for a victim's lawyer (bistandsadvokat) if the offence qualifies — the court appoints one at no cost to you.
- Contact Offerrådgivningen for emotional support and practical guidance.
- File a compensation claim with the Erstatningsnævnet within 2 years of the offence (extensions possible in exceptional cases).
What should you NOT do?
- Don't wait too long to report — the compensation board requires a police report as a starting point.
- Don't assume you must attend court alone — your bistandsadvokat accompanies and advises you throughout.
- Don't settle privately without legal advice — you may be entitled to more than the offender offers informally.
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