Domestic Violence in Morocco: Filing a Complaint and Getting Protection

Violence within a couple, whether physical, psychological, sexual or economic, is not a private matter: it is a criminal offence, and Moroccan law gives victims concrete ways to protect themselves. Many victims nevertheless hesitate to act, out of fear, financial dependence or concern for their children. This article explains, step by step, what can be done in Agadir, Inezgane and the region.

In immediate danger

Safety comes first. If you are in danger, call the police (19) in town or the Royal Gendarmerie (177) outside built-up areas. If possible, take refuge with a relative, together with your children and your and their identity documents.

What the law says

Law 103-13 on combating violence against women, in force since 2018, strengthened the protection of victims: a broad definition of violence, heavier penalties when the perpetrator is the spouse and, above all, protection measures that the courts can order. Violence between spouses also remains punishable under the Penal Code, whoever the victim is.

Step 1: document the violence

Evidence is decisive. It is important to:

• see a doctor or go to the emergency department and obtain a medical certificate describing the injuries and the period of incapacity;
• keep messages, recordings and photos of injuries or damage;
• note the dates and circumstances of each incident;
• identify witnesses: neighbours, relatives, colleagues.

Even if the victim is not ready to file a complaint straight away, this evidence should be kept somewhere safe.

Step 2: file a complaint

A complaint can be filed with the police, the gendarmerie or directly with the public prosecutor at the Court of First Instance, for example in Inezgane or Agadir. Courts have support units for women and children who are victims of violence, which receive, listen to, guide and accompany victims through the process. Similar units exist in hospitals.

A lawyer can draft the complaint, gather the evidence and assist you during the investigation and trial, in particular to claim compensation by joining the proceedings as a civil party.

Step 3: request protection measures

The law allows the prosecutor and the court to take protection measures, such as:

• prohibiting the perpetrator from contacting or approaching the victim;
• removing the perpetrator from the home;
• notifying the perpetrator that they may not dispose of joint property;
• referring the perpetrator to appropriate treatment.

Breaching these measures is itself an offence.

If you have been thrown out of the marital home

The Family Code contains a specific rule: when a spouse is wrongfully expelled from the marital home, the public prosecutor intervenes to have them returned immediately and takes the measures needed for their safety. Report the situation without delay.

What about divorce?

Violence can be grounds for divorce for harm or divorce for discord (chiqaq), with possible compensation for the harm suffered. The evidence gathered will then also be used before the family section. To understand the procedures, read the complete guide to divorce in Morocco, divorce for discord and the wife’s rights after divorce. Custody and child maintenance are covered in this article.

A worked example

A woman in Inezgane has been insulted and beaten for months. After a more serious incident, she goes to the emergency department and obtains a medical certificate. With a lawyer’s help, she files a complaint with the prosecutor; the court’s support unit directs her to temporary accommodation. A no-contact order is issued against her husband. A few weeks later, she starts divorce proceedings for discord, relying on the evidence already gathered, and obtains custody of her children and maintenance. This simplified example shows why it matters to keep evidence and to be supported from the start.

Key takeaways

• If you are in danger, call the police (19) or the gendarmerie (177) and get to safety with your children.
• Have your injuries recorded by a doctor and keep messages, photos and witnesses’ details.
• A complaint can be filed with the police, the gendarmerie or the public prosecutor.
• The prosecutor and the court can order protection measures, such as a no-contact order.
• The evidence you gather can also be used, if you choose, in divorce proceedings.

Frequently asked questions

Can the complaint be withdrawn?

The victim can withdraw the complaint in some cases, but the prosecutor can still prosecute, particularly for serious acts. Before deciding, it is worth discussing it with a lawyer.

Is psychological violence recognised?

Yes. The law also covers psychological and economic violence. It is often proven through messages, witness statements and reports by professionals.

Can a man who is a victim of violence take action?

Yes. Violence between spouses is punishable under the Penal Code whoever the victim is, and the same complaint procedures apply.

Support in Agadir and Inezgane

The office of Maître Said Laachili, based in Inezgane, supports victims of domestic violence with care and confidentiality: complaints, protection measures, civil party claims, divorce, custody and maintenance, as part of its family law and criminal law practice. In an emergency, call the police or gendarmerie first, then contact the office.