The Innocence en Danger legal hotline offers free emergency legal guidance to individuals facing situations that threaten the safety and well-being of minors, especially in cases of sexual violence, whether online or offline. Each case is handled strictly within the scope of the association’s mission: the protection and defense of children who are victims of violence.

Specialist lawyers affiliated with Innocence en Danger respond to requests on a daily basis, ensuring expert support and rapid intervention for urgent concerns. This initial advice is always provided free of charge, allowing individuals to access immediate assistance without financial barriers.

When further legal analysis or the development of a defense strategy is required, the hotline refers individuals to external specialist lawyers who are part of our judicial team and experts in this field of the justice system, though there is no obligation to retain them. This ensures that people remain free to choose their own legal representation.

Due to the complexity and time involved in preparing more comprehensive casework—including document review, fact-finding, and preparing legal arguments—the association cannot directly undertake extended individual representation beyond the initial emergency advice[6]. Each situation may require several months or even years of legal engagement, which can only be managed by the independent solicitors.

Solicitors retain full autonomy over fee arrangements and case strategy; Innocence en Danger does not intervene in the financial or professional relationship between the individual and the lawyer. All fees, terms, and subsequent management are the responsibility of the solicitor and the client.

This process ensures that each victim or family receives qualified, immediate support, along with direction toward dedicated professionals for ongoing legal needs, while maintaining the highest standards of independence and confidentiality.

CIVIL PARTY INNOCEENCE IN DANGER

Innocence en Danger acts a civil party in criminal trials where a minor has been subjected to acts of violence or rape, it means that the association formally joins the proceedings alongside the victim in order to defend its own moral interests and those of the victim, in line with its mission.

As a recognized association dedicated to child protection; we seek redress for the collective harm caused by the offense, advocate for the truth, and influence how the trial unfolds. In this role, it can access the case file, participate in court debates, provide evidence or arguments, and request damages.

If the victim is a minor, the consent of their legal guardians is required for the association to act on their behalf, except in exceptional circumstances. This does not prevent the victim (or their family) from also acting as a civil party themselves.

In summary, this allows the association to provide essential support, defend the public interest, and highlight the importance of child protection before the criminal courts.

In average, Innocence en Danger is a civil party in 160 number of criminal cases each year.

« The association covers all costs associated with its participation as a civil party in criminal proceedings. »