Domestic violence is punished under Article 126¹ of the Criminal Code. Many other crimes against a family member are also treated as "family crimes".
Who counts as a family member
By law this includes not only a spouse and children, but parents, siblings, grandparents, grandchildren, the spouse's parents, a partner in an unregistered marriage, and a former spouse.
What counts as domestic violence
Violence, systematic insults, blackmail or humiliation by one family member against another that caused physical pain or suffering.
Penalties
- Community service of 80–150 hours or imprisonment of up to 2 years
- Against a minor, a pregnant woman or a person with a disability, in front of a minor, against two or more people, by a group or repeatedly — 1 to 3 years
- In both cases the court may also restrict weapons-related rights
If you are accused
- Don't contact the victim — it can aggravate the charge or become a reason for detention
- Comply with any restraining or protective order
- Give no statement without a lawyer
If you are a victim
Call 112. The police can issue a restraining order against the abuser. A lawyer can help you apply for a protective order and protect your interests in the criminal case.
Legal basis
Official texts (in Georgian) — Legislative Herald of Georgia, matsne.gov.ge.
This article is general information and does not replace advice from a lawyer on your specific case.