For a long time, victims remained in the shadow of the accused in criminal proceedings. Today, the French justice system recognizes a central place for victims, ensuring access to information, support, and active participation at every stage. But the criminal process...

Many people believe that lawyers intervene during police custody only to defend suspects. That is false. In reality, the lawyer representing the victim plays a decisive role in restoring balance to the procedure — especially during a confrontation with the suspect. If...

The role of a lawyer during police custody (garde à vue) is a cornerstone of individual liberty protections. Whether you are an ordinary citizen, a parent involved in a family conflict that escalated, or a protected adult, calling a lawyer is not a luxury — it is an...

Child visitation interference occurs when a parent refuses to return or present a child to the parent who is legally entitled to request them. This situation often arises during parental visitation or custody exchanges. Contrary to what some believe, this is not a...

The filial support obligation is a legal duty that often arises when a parent enters a nursing home or experiences financial hardship. This obligation mirrors the duty parents have to support their children. Rooted in family solidarity, it can raise many questions:...

The Pacte Civil de Solidarité (PACS) is a civil union created by the French law of November 15, 1999. Today, it stands as a major alternative to marriage and informal cohabitation. This civil contract allows two adults—whether of the same sex or different sexes—to...

Temporary divorce orders are essential for protecting your daily life—and that of your children—from the moment a divorce is filed until the final judgment becomes legally binding. These measures, provided under Article 255 of the French Civil Code, remain in force...

Family violence is no longer considered a private matter. It is now a top priority for public authorities, courts, and legal professionals. These situations can take many forms—domestic, sexual, emotional, educational, or even economic abuse. Addressing them requires...

A last name is more than an administrative identifier. It plays a central role in a person’s social, professional, and personal identity. After a divorce, using a former spouse's last name in France is strictly regulated under French law. What happens to the use of a...

The consequences of domestic violence on children require immediate, coordinated and secure responses from both civil and criminal courts. Key actors include the Family Court judge, the Juvenile Court judge, and the Public Prosecutor, who may intervene as a matter of...