What you should know
Domestic violence and abuse can involve physical, sexual, emotional, economic or other harmful conduct. Legal protection may also intersect with child maintenance, custody, inheritance and other family-law issues.
If you are in immediate danger, prioritise your safety and contact an appropriate emergency, protection or law-enforcement service. Where it is safe, preserve messages, photographs, medical information and witness details that may be relevant.
Speak to a lawyer about available protective measures and any related family proceedings. A4A can assess requests for free legal assistance from eligible people.
Legal rights and available remedies depend on the facts of each situation. Contact A4A if you need advice about how the law applies to you.
When to seek help
If you are unsure how the law applies to your circumstances, if your rights may have been infringed, or if you have been arrested, detained, threatened or placed at immediate risk, seek legal assistance.
Legal reference points
- Domestic Violence Act, 2007
- Constitution of Sierra Leone, 1991
- Applicable family and criminal law
For Sierra Leone legislation, judgments and other primary legal materials, use an authoritative source such as SierraLII. The legislation that applies to an individual matter may change or depend on the facts.
Visit SierraLII