{"id":31441,"date":"2025-11-19T16:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-11-19T15:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/slavery\/"},"modified":"2025-11-24T20:16:46","modified_gmt":"2025-11-24T19:16:46","slug":"slavery","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/criminal-law\/slavery\/","title":{"rendered":"Slavery"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents\"><h2>Slavery<\/h2><ul><li><a href=\"#h-sklaverei\" data-level=\"2\">Slavery<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-objektiver-tatbestand\" data-level=\"2\">objective elements of the offence<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-prufungsschritte\" data-level=\"3\">Steps of legal assessment<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-qualifizierende-umstande\" data-level=\"2\">Qualifying Circumstances<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-schwerer-fall-nach-absatz-1\" data-level=\"3\">Aggravated Offense under Paragraph 1<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-gleichwertiger-fall-nach-absatz-2\" data-level=\"3\">Equivalent Case under Paragraph 2<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-abgrenzung-zu-anderen-delikten\" data-level=\"2\">Distinction from other offences<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-konkurrenzen\" data-level=\"3\">Concurrences:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-beweislast-amp-beweiswurdigung\" data-level=\"2\">Burden of proof and evaluation of evidence<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-staatsanwaltschaft\" data-level=\"3\">Public Prosecutor&#8217;s Office:<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-gericht\" data-level=\"3\">Court:<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-beschuldigte-person\" data-level=\"3\">Accused Person:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-praxisbeispiele\" data-level=\"2\">Practical example<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-subjektiver-tatbestand\" data-level=\"2\">subjective elements of the offence<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-schuld-amp-irrtumer\" data-level=\"2\">Culpability and mistakes<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-strafaufhebung-amp-diversion\" data-level=\"2\">Extinction of punishment and diversion<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-diversion\" data-level=\"3\">Diversion:<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-ausschluss-der-diversion\" data-level=\"3\">Exclusion of Diversion:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-strafzumessung-amp-folgen\" data-level=\"2\">Sentencing and consequences<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-erschwerungsgrunde-bestehen-insbesondere-wenn\" data-level=\"3\">Aggravating factors exist, especially when<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-milderungsgrunde-sind-etwa\" data-level=\"3\">Mitigating factors include, for example<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-strafrahmen\" data-level=\"2\">Penalty Framework<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-geldstrafe-tagessatzsystem\" data-level=\"2\">Fine \u2013 Daily Rate System<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-freiheitsstrafe-amp-teil-bedingte-nachsicht\" data-level=\"2\">Imprisonment and (partially) suspended sentence<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-zustandigkeit-der-gerichte\" data-level=\"2\">Jurisdiction of the courts<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-sachliche-zustandigkeit\" data-level=\"3\">Subject-matter jurisdiction<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-ortliche-zustandigkeit\" data-level=\"3\">Local jurisdiction<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-instanzenzug\" data-level=\"3\">Appellate Process<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-zivilanspruche-im-strafverfahren\" data-level=\"2\">Civil claims in criminal proceedings<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-strafverfahren-im-uberblick\" data-level=\"2\">Overview of criminal proceedings<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-beschuldigtenrechte\" data-level=\"2\">Rights of the accused<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-praxis-amp-verhaltenstipps\" data-level=\"2\">Practical guidance and behavioural advice<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-ihre-vorteile-mit-anwaltlicher-unterstutzung\" data-level=\"2\">Your Benefits with Legal Assistance<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-faq-haufig-gestellte-fragen\" data-level=\"2\">FAQ &#8211; Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-sklaverei\">Slavery<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Slavery under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ris.bka.gv.at\/NormDokument.wxe?Abfrage=Bundesnormen&amp;Gesetzesnummer=10002296&amp;Artikel=&amp;Paragraf=104&amp;Anlage=&amp;Uebergangsrecht=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u00a7 104 StGB<\/a> exists when a person <strong>treats another like an object<\/strong> and <strong>deprives them of their personal freedom completely or largely<\/strong>. This refers to situations in which individuals are <strong>under the complete control<\/strong> of another, can no longer make self-determined decisions, and are factually <strong>at their mercy<\/strong>. It encompasses both classic slavery and <strong>slavery-like situations<\/strong>, meaning conditions where someone is brought into a relationship equivalent to dominion over a person through coercion, deception, or exploitation of a predicament. Furthermore, <strong>effecting enslavement<\/strong>, <strong>bringing about a slavery-like situation<\/strong>, or <strong>causing a person to enter such a situation<\/strong> falls within the scope of the offense.   <\/p>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-container uagb-block-3019fe8e alignfull uagb-is-root-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-container uagb-block-32585033\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Slavery involves the complete or extensive control over a person, thereby abolishing their personal freedom.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-container uagb-block-45819ab6\"><picture>\n\t\t<source srcset=\"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7104-Sklaverei-352x198.webp\" >\n\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"mr-picture-small\" src=\"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7104-Sklaverei.webp\" alt=\"Slavery explained under \u00a7 104 StGB. Learn when a slavery-like situation exists and what legal consequences are imminent. Find out now.\" >\n\t<\/picture>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n    <div class=\"mr-quote mrbg clearfix\">\n        <a class=\"mr-quote-person\" href=\"\/ueber-uns\/rechtsanwalt-peter-harlander\/\" title=\"Rechtsanwalt Peter Harlander\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"mr-quote-person-img\" src=\"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/themes\/harlander\/design\/ph100.webp\" width=\"100\"\n                 height=\"100\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Rechtsanwalt Peter Harlander\">\n            <span class=\"mr-quote-person-text\">\n            Peter Harlander<br>\n            <span class=\"mr-quote-person-function\">Harlander &amp; Partner Rechtsanw\u00e4lte<\/span>\n        <\/span>\n        <\/a>\n        <span class=\"mr-quote-content\">\u201eSklaverei beginnt dort, wo ein Mensch nicht mehr als Person wahrgenommen, sondern als Mittel zum Zweck behandelt wird.\u201c<\/span>\n    <\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-objektiver-tatbestand\">objective elements of the offence<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The objective elements of the offense of slavery under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ris.bka.gv.at\/NormDokument.wxe?Abfrage=Bundesnormen&amp;Gesetzesnummer=10002296&amp;Artikel=&amp;Paragraf=104&amp;Anlage=&amp;Uebergangsrecht=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u00a7 104 StGB<\/a> encompass all external, clearly recognizable acts by which a person is <strong>completely or largely deprived of their personal freedom<\/strong>. The focus is on a state in which a human being is treated, controlled, or exploited like an <strong>object<\/strong>, effectively abolishing their self-determination. This norm protects fundamental human dignity and draws the line where a person can no longer dispose of their life, body, or labor.  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Any situation in which a person is brought into or finds themselves in <strong>slavery<\/strong> or a <strong>slavery-like situation<\/strong> constitutes the offense. Crucial is the objectively perceptible relationship of domination, based on <strong>permanent control<\/strong>, <strong>exploitation<\/strong>, or <strong>disposal power<\/strong>. The perpetrator&#8217;s internal motivation is irrelevant for the objective elements of the offense. Only the external circumstances and the real existing state of subjugation and loss of freedom are decisive.   <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-prufungsschritte\">Steps of legal assessment<\/h3>\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-tatsubjekt\">Perpetrator:<\/h4>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The perpetrator is any person who enslaves another human being, creates a slavery-like situation, or engages in slave trade. No special characteristics are required. Co-perpetrators, accomplices, or persons who knowingly provide organizational support are also included.  <\/p>\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-tatobjekt\">Object of the Offense<strong>:<\/strong> <\/h4>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The object of the offense is any human being who is brought into a relationship of domination that <strong>practically eliminates their exercise of freedom<\/strong>. The victim does not have to be physically imprisoned. Factual control over <strong>living conditions<\/strong>, <strong>freedom of movement<\/strong>, <strong>labor performance<\/strong>, or <strong>social contacts<\/strong> is sufficient if the overall dependency relationship amounts to slavery.  <\/p>\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-tathandlung\">Actus Reus: <\/h4>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The actus reus encompasses all actions that lead to or maintain a slavery-like situation. These include, in particular: <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Creating or maintaining a relationship of domination<\/strong> that completely or predominantly subjects the affected person to the perpetrator&#8217;s control.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Slave trade<\/strong>, such as buying, selling, brokering, transporting, or transferring a person with the aim of exploitation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bringing about a slavery-like situation<\/strong>, for example, through forced labor, debt bondage, total economic dependence, or social isolation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Exploiting an existing state of helplessness<\/strong>, when the victim, due to their situation, factually no longer has the possibility to escape.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mere exploitative relationships that do not reach the quality of a slavery-typical total subjugation do not constitute the offense. Decisive is whether the overall circumstances amount to <strong>complete external determination<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-taterfolg\">Result of the Offense: <\/h4>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The result of the offense exists when the victim is actually in a state that can objectively be classified as slavery or a slavery-like situation. Decisive is the <strong>actual control<\/strong> over the person, not the legal designation or the perpetrator&#8217;s subjective self-assessment. A merely short-term restriction is not sufficient. It requires a <strong>stable, continuous subjugation<\/strong> that deprives the victim of their self-determination.   <\/p>\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-kausalitat\">Causality:<\/h4>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Causal is any action without which the state of slavery or a slavery-like situation would not have occurred. This also includes preparatory steps, organizational measures, or supportive actions if they enable or intensify the situation. <\/p>\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-objektive-zurechnung\">Objective Attribution: <\/h4>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The result is objectively attributable if the perpetrator deliberately creates a situation that leads to <strong>actual external domination<\/strong>. A lawful or socially customary dependency is never attributable. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ris.bka.gv.at\/NormDokument.wxe?Abfrage=Bundesnormen&amp;Gesetzesnummer=10002296&amp;Artikel=&amp;Paragraf=104&amp;Anlage=&amp;Uebergangsrecht=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u00a7 104 StGB<\/a> always applies when the perpetrator creates a situation that deprives the affected person of all real freedom and massively impairs human dignity. <\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-qualifizierende-umstande\">Qualifying Circumstances<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Slavery does not distinguish classic qualifications. The structure results from the two paragraphs: <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-schwerer-fall-nach-absatz-1\">Aggravated Offense under Paragraph 1<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The basic offense exists if the perpetrator<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>engages in slave trade<\/strong>, or<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>deprives a person of their personal freedom in the form of slavery or a slavery-like situation<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is the particularly serious case, as the victim is completely dehumanized and degraded to an object.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-gleichwertiger-fall-nach-absatz-2\">Equivalent Case under Paragraph 2<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Paragraph 2 equally severely covers <strong>causing<\/strong> that<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>a person is enslaved,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>a person is brought into a slavery-like situation, or<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>a person enters such a situation themselves as a result of manipulation, deception, or pressure.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The structure clarifies that any form of bringing about or enabling a slavery-like situation fully satisfies the objective elements of the offense.<\/p>\n    <div class=\"mr-quote mrbg clearfix\">\n        <a class=\"mr-quote-person\" href=\"\/en\/about-us\/sebastian-riedlmair\/\" title=\"Attorney Sebastian Riedlmair\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"mr-quote-person-img\" src=\"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/themes\/harlander\/design\/sr100.webp\" width=\"100\"\n                 height=\"100\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Attorney Sebastian Riedlmair\">\n            <span class=\"mr-quote-person-text\">\n            Sebastian Riedlmair<br>\n            <span class=\"mr-quote-person-function\">Harlander &amp; Partner Attorneys<\/span>\n        <\/span>\n        <\/a>\n        <span class=\"mr-quote-content\">\u201eDie Grenze zur Sklaverei ist dort \u00fcberschritten, wo Abh\u00e4ngigkeit nicht mehr gestaltbar, sondern aufgezwungene Dauerrealit\u00e4t ist.\u201c<\/span>\n    <\/div>\n<a class=\"mr-cta-link mr-cta-button-cal\" href=\"#h2-booking\" title=\"Free initial consultation\"><span class=\"mr-cta-link-normal\">Select your preferred appointment now:<\/span><span class=\"mr-cta-link-bold\">Free initial consultation<\/span><\/a>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-abgrenzung-zu-anderen-delikten\">Distinction from other offences<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The offense of slavery exists when a person is brought under the <strong>complete or extensive power of disposal<\/strong> of another and thereby loses their personal freedom <strong>permanently or at least substantially<\/strong>. The wrong consists in the <strong>abolition of self-determination<\/strong> and the <strong>creation of a situation<\/strong> that amounts to ownership-like control. Decisive is the actual control over the victim&#8217;s life, not the outward appearance.  <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/criminal-law\/deprivation-of-liberty\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u00a7 99 StGB \u2013 Deprivation of Liberty:<\/a><\/strong> Covers the <strong>mere detention or imprisonment<\/strong> without change of location. The objective content is limited to the <strong>restriction of freedom of movement<\/strong>. If no slavery-like permanent or total domination is established, it remains <a href=\"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/criminal-law\/extortionate-kidnapping\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u00a7 99 StGB.<\/a>  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/criminal-law\/extortionate-kidnapping\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u00a7 102 StGB \u2013 Extortionate Kidnapping:<\/a><\/strong> Requires <strong>seizure or abduction<\/strong> aimed at <strong>exerting pressure on a third party<\/strong>. With <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ris.bka.gv.at\/NormDokument.wxe?Abfrage=Bundesnormen&amp;Gesetzesnummer=10002296&amp;Artikel=&amp;Paragraf=104&amp;Anlage=&amp;Uebergangsrecht=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u00a7 104 StGB<\/a>, the focus is not on the intent to extort, but on the continuous subjugation to the perpetrator&#8217;s power of domination. Both offenses can coincide if a seizure transitions into a slavery-like situation.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>\u00a7 269 StGB \u2013 Hostage-taking during attempted liberation:<\/strong> Covers <strong>acts endangering authorities or third parties<\/strong> to prevent liberation. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ris.bka.gv.at\/NormDokument.wxe?Abfrage=Bundesnormen&amp;Gesetzesnummer=10002296&amp;Artikel=&amp;Paragraf=104&amp;Anlage=&amp;Uebergangsrecht=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u00a7 104 StGB<\/a><\/strong>, however, concerns the <strong>continuous deprivation of personal freedom in the form of slavery or a slavery-like situation<\/strong>. Both offenses do not overlap. \u00a7 269 only applies additionally if <strong>additional acts of endangerment<\/strong> are committed in the course of the slavery-like subjugation.  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-konkurrenzen\">Concurrences:<\/h3>\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-echte-konkurrenz\">True Concurrence: <\/h4>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Exists when additional independent offenses, such as deprivation of liberty, dangerous threats, or bodily harm, are added to <strong>slavery<\/strong>. <strong>Each legal interest is violated separately.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-unechte-konkurrenz\">False Concurrence:<\/h4>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Only occurs when a specific offense fully encompasses the entire wrong.<br\/>This is rare, <strong>as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ris.bka.gv.at\/NormDokument.wxe?Abfrage=Bundesnormen&amp;Gesetzesnummer=10002296&amp;Artikel=&amp;Paragraf=104&amp;Anlage=&amp;Uebergangsrecht=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u00a7 104 StGB<\/a> concerns an independent, particularly serious protected legal interest.<\/strong><br\/><strong>Therefore, the displacement of other offenses is the exception.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-tatmehrheit\">Plurality of Offenses: <\/h4>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Multiple enslaved persons or several separate incidents lead to multiple independent offenses.<\/p>\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-fortgesetzte-handlung\">Continuing Offense: <\/h4>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A prolonged subjugation or deprivation of liberty remains a single offense as long as the intent to maintain the slavery-like situation persists.<br\/>The offense only ends with the cessation of factual dominion over the victim.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-beweislast-amp-beweiswurdigung\">Burden of proof and evaluation of evidence<\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-staatsanwaltschaft\">Public Prosecutor&#8217;s Office: <\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Public Prosecutor&#8217;s Office bears the burden of proof for the existence of <strong>slavery<\/strong> or a <strong>slavery-like situation<\/strong>, its <strong>establishment<\/strong>, <strong>maintenance<\/strong>, or <strong>bringing about<\/strong>, as well as for the circumstances under which the victim was <strong>deprived of personal freedom<\/strong>. It must prove that the affected person was <strong>without effective consent<\/strong>, through <strong>violence<\/strong>, <strong>dangerous threats<\/strong>, <strong>deception<\/strong>, or other suitable means brought into a situation where they were <strong>at the mercy of the perpetrator&#8217;s power of domination<\/strong>. It must also be proven that there was actual <strong>dominion and power of disposal<\/strong> that actually enabled the slavery-like subjugation.  <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-gericht\">Court: <\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The court examines and evaluates all evidence in its <strong>overall context<\/strong>. It does not utilize unsuitable or unlawfully obtained evidence. Decisive is whether the victim was actually brought into a <strong>continuous state of domination and dependence<\/strong> and whether the act was objectively suitable to establish or maintain this <strong>slavery-like control<\/strong>. The court determines whether a <strong>slavery or slavery mechanism<\/strong> existed that supports the offense and completely undermines the victim&#8217;s protected personal freedom.   <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-beschuldigte-person\">Accused Person: <\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The accused person has <strong>no burden of proof<\/strong>. However, they can point out doubts regarding the alleged <strong>exercise of domination<\/strong>, the <strong>purported dependency situation<\/strong>, the <strong>involuntariness<\/strong> of the stay, or the claimed <strong>slavery-like control<\/strong>. Likewise, they can point to <strong>contradictions<\/strong>, <strong>gaps in evidence<\/strong>, or <strong>unclear expert opinions<\/strong>.  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Typical evidence includes <strong>video or surveillance material<\/strong> related to control acts, <strong>digital location data<\/strong>, <strong>communication traces<\/strong>, <strong>access control or movement data<\/strong>, <strong>proof of work and living situations<\/strong>, documentation of <strong>financial or organizational dependencies<\/strong>, as well as traces at locations or on objects indicating <strong>factual domination<\/strong> of the victim. In special cases, <strong>psychological<\/strong>, <strong>socio-pedagogical<\/strong>, or <strong>medical expert opinions<\/strong> may also be relevant, particularly if the victim was <strong>underage<\/strong>, <strong>mentally weak<\/strong>, <strong>mentally ill<\/strong>, or <strong>incapable of resistance<\/strong>, and it needs to be assessed whether effective consent was precluded. <\/p>\n    <div class=\"mr-quote mrbg clearfix\">\n        <a class=\"mr-quote-person\" href=\"\/ueber-uns\/rechtsanwalt-peter-harlander\/\" title=\"Rechtsanwalt Peter Harlander\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"mr-quote-person-img\" src=\"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/themes\/harlander\/design\/ph100.webp\" width=\"100\"\n                 height=\"100\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Rechtsanwalt Peter Harlander\">\n            <span class=\"mr-quote-person-text\">\n            Peter Harlander<br>\n            <span class=\"mr-quote-person-function\">Harlander &amp; Partner Rechtsanw\u00e4lte<\/span>\n        <\/span>\n        <\/a>\n        <span class=\"mr-quote-content\">\u201eGerichte \u00fcberzeugen keine \u00dcberschriften, sondern konkrete, plastisch dargestellte Lebenssituationen.\u201c<\/span>\n    <\/div>\n<a class=\"mr-cta-link mr-cta-button-cal\" href=\"#h2-booking\" title=\"Free initial consultation\"><span class=\"mr-cta-link-normal\">Select your preferred appointment now:<\/span><span class=\"mr-cta-link-bold\">Free initial consultation<\/span><\/a>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-praxisbeispiele\">Practical example<\/h2>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Deception and gradual subjugation:<\/strong> A perpetrator lures the victim with a seemingly harmless pretext, such as an alleged job opportunity or supposed accommodation. The victim follows voluntarily but ends up in an environment completely controlled by the perpetrator. There, they are brought into a <strong>slavery-like situation<\/strong>, for example, through complete dependence, surveillance, deprivation of identification documents, or systematic isolation. The deception is sufficient if it serves to create a situation in which the victim <strong>factually no longer possesses freedom of decision<\/strong>. Decisive is the permanent transfer of power of domination, not whether the victim previously resisted.    <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Exploitation of helplessness:<\/strong> An underage, mentally weak, or resistance-incapable person is brought by a person of trust into an environment where they are controlled, exploited, or forced into service. The victim does not recognize the implications and cannot prevent the process. Since the person is placed into <strong>slavery or a slavery-like situation<\/strong> without effective consent, the offense is clearly fulfilled.  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These examples show that merely <strong>creating or maintaining a situation of complete dependence<\/strong> fulfills the definition of slavery within the meaning of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ris.bka.gv.at\/NormDokument.wxe?Abfrage=Bundesnormen&amp;Gesetzesnummer=10002296&amp;Artikel=&amp;Paragraf=104&amp;Anlage=&amp;Uebergangsrecht=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u00a7 104 StGB<\/a>. Decisive is the <strong>targeted and sustained exercise of domination<\/strong>, regardless of whether a kidnapping, deception, or other act of seizure occurred beforehand. <\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-subjektiver-tatbestand\">subjective elements of the offence<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The perpetrator acts intentionally. They know or at least accept the possibility <strong>that they are bringing a person into a situation where their personal freedom is completely or largely abolished<\/strong>, and that this person is <strong>under their actual power of domination<\/strong> or under the domination of a third party. They recognize that the victim is thereby <strong>deprived of their autonomous conduct of life<\/strong> and brought into a <strong>slavery-like or slavery-related dependency<\/strong>.  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Essential is the intent to bring about <strong>permanent subjugation<\/strong>. The perpetrator intends to ensure that the victim <strong>can no longer freely dispose of their whereabouts, labor, or social environment<\/strong>, and seriously accepts the associated complete domination. Whether the victim is later actually exploited in every respect is irrelevant for criminal liability, as long as the intent is directed at the <strong>establishment or maintenance<\/strong> of such a situation.  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No intent exists if the perpetrator believes that the victim <strong>freely, informed, and genuinely<\/strong> consents to the specific life and dependency situation, or if they mistakenly assume that no <strong>slavery-like or slavery-related position<\/strong> arises. Anyone who assumes that the affected person autonomously shapes their living circumstances and is only temporarily seeking help or accommodation does not fulfill the subjective elements of the offense. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Decisive is that the perpetrator deliberately creates or exploits the victim&#8217;s situation <strong>to establish an actual relationship of domination<\/strong> that goes far beyond mere restrictions of freedom. Anyone who recognizes that the victim is <strong>dependent, helpless, or intimidated<\/strong> and deliberately uses this situation to establish <strong>permanent control over their life<\/strong> acts intentionally and thereby fulfills the subjective elements of the offense under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ris.bka.gv.at\/NormDokument.wxe?Abfrage=Bundesnormen&amp;Gesetzesnummer=10002296&amp;Artikel=&amp;Paragraf=104&amp;Anlage=&amp;Uebergangsrecht=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u00a7 104 StGB<\/a>. <\/p>\n<a class=\"mr-cta-link mr-cta-button-cal\" href=\"#h2-booking\" title=\"Free initial consultation\"><span class=\"mr-cta-link-normal\">Select your preferred appointment now:<\/span><span class=\"mr-cta-link-bold\">Free initial consultation<\/span><\/a>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-schuld-amp-irrtumer\">Culpability and mistakes<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/criminal-law\/legal-error\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mistake of Law<\/a>:<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A mistake of law only excuses if it was <strong>unavoidable<\/strong>. Anyone who engages in conduct that <strong>evidently infringes upon the rights of others<\/strong> cannot claim that they did not recognize its unlawfulness. Everyone is obliged to inform themselves about the <strong>legal limits<\/strong> of their actions. Mere ignorance or a careless error does not absolve responsibility.   <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Principle of Guilt:<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Only those who act <strong>culpably<\/strong> are punishable. Intentional offenses require that the perpetrator recognizes the essential events and at least <strong>accepts them with approval<\/strong>. If this intent is lacking, for example, because the perpetrator mistakenly assumes that their behavior is permitted or will be <strong>voluntarily supported<\/strong>, at most negligence exists. This is not sufficient for intentional offenses.   <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Incapacity to be held accountable:<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No guilt applies to someone who, at the time of the offense, was unable to recognize the injustice of their actions or to act according to this insight due to a <strong>severe mental disorder<\/strong>, a <strong>pathological mental impairment<\/strong>, or a <strong>significant inability to control themselves<\/strong>. In case of corresponding doubts, a <strong>psychiatric assessment<\/strong> will be obtained. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/criminal-law\/exculpatory-necessity\/\">Excusable emergency<\/a>:<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An excusable emergency may exist if the perpetrator acts in an <strong>extreme duress situation<\/strong> to avert an <strong>acute danger<\/strong> to their own life or the life of others. The behavior remains unlawful but can have a <strong>guilt-reducing<\/strong> or excusing effect if there was no other way out. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/criminal-law\/erroneous-assumption-of-justifying-circumstances\/\">Putative self-defense<\/a>:<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Anyone who mistakenly believes they are entitled to an act of defense acts without intent if the error was <strong>serious and comprehensible<\/strong>. Such an error can <strong>reduce or exclude guilt<\/strong>. However, if a breach of duty remains, a negligent or mitigating assessment comes into consideration, but not a justification.  <\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-strafaufhebung-amp-diversion\">Extinction of punishment and diversion<\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-diversion\">Diversion:<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A diversion is possible in <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ris.bka.gv.at\/NormDokument.wxe?Abfrage=Bundesnormen&amp;Gesetzesnummer=10002296&amp;Artikel=&amp;Paragraf=104&amp;Anlage=&amp;Uebergangsrecht=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u00a7 104 of the Criminal Code<\/a><\/strong> only in <strong>very rare exceptional cases<\/strong>.<br\/>The reason for this is that <strong>slavery and slavery-like situations<\/strong> particularly severely interfere with the personal freedom and dignity of the person and are considered one of the <strong>most serious offenses against freedom<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A diversionary settlement can only be examined if<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>the guilt of the perpetrator is minor,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>the victim was not exposed to any significant danger or exploitation,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>there was no violence, no threat, and no exploitation of extreme defenselessness,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>the victim was quickly freed from the slavery-like situation,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>and <strong>the facts are generally manageable and clear<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If a diversion comes into consideration, the court can order, for example, monetary payments, community service, or a settlement of the offense.<br\/>A diversion leads to <strong>no conviction<\/strong> and <strong>no entry in the criminal record<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-ausschluss-der-diversion\">Exclusion of Diversion:<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A diversion is excluded if<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>the victim was significantly endangered, mistreated, or exploited,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>the perpetrator used violence or made serious threats,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>a slavery-like situation has already been created or maintained,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>or if the behavior as a whole constitutes a <strong>serious violation of personal protected rights<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Only in the case of <strong>minor guilt<\/strong>, a <strong>clear misunderstanding<\/strong>, or if the perpetrator is <strong>immediately insightful<\/strong>, can the court even examine whether an exceptional case exists.<\/p>\n    <div class=\"mr-quote mrbg clearfix\">\n        <a class=\"mr-quote-person\" href=\"\/en\/about-us\/sebastian-riedlmair\/\" title=\"Attorney Sebastian Riedlmair\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"mr-quote-person-img\" src=\"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/themes\/harlander\/design\/sr100.webp\" width=\"100\"\n                 height=\"100\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Attorney Sebastian Riedlmair\">\n            <span class=\"mr-quote-person-text\">\n            Sebastian Riedlmair<br>\n            <span class=\"mr-quote-person-function\">Harlander &amp; Partner Attorneys<\/span>\n        <\/span>\n        <\/a>\n        <span class=\"mr-quote-content\">\u201eStrafzumessung in F\u00e4llen der Sklaverei bedeutet, die abstrakte Strafdrohung mit der konkreten Lebenszerst\u00f6rung in Einklang zu bringen.\u201c<\/span>\n    <\/div>\n<a class=\"mr-cta-link mr-cta-button-cal\" href=\"#h2-booking\" title=\"Free initial consultation\"><span class=\"mr-cta-link-normal\">Select your preferred appointment now:<\/span><span class=\"mr-cta-link-bold\">Free initial consultation<\/span><\/a>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-strafzumessung-amp-folgen\">Sentencing and consequences<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The court assesses the penalty according to the <strong>severity of the slavery-like influence<\/strong>, the <strong>nature and intensity of the exercise of power<\/strong> over the victim, and <strong>how far the enslavement or slavery-like situation had actually progressed<\/strong>. It is crucial whether the perpetrator consciously brings or keeps the victim in a situation in which their personal freedom is completely or largely abolished. The question of how deliberately the perpetrator proceeds and what means they use also influences the amount of the penalty.  <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-erschwerungsgrunde-bestehen-insbesondere-wenn\">Aggravating Factors Exist in Particular If<\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>the victim is held in slavery or a slavery-like situation for a <strong>longer period of time<\/strong>,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the perpetrator proceeds <strong>deliberately, in an organized manner, or commercially<\/strong>,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the exercise of power was already <strong>far advanced or fully established<\/strong>,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the victim is subjected to <strong>physical or mental stress<\/strong>,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Violence, dangerous threats, or deception<\/strong> are used,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>or the perpetrator has already been <strong>previously convicted for similar offenses<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-milderungsgrunde-sind-etwa\"><strong>Mitigating Factors are, for Example,<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>if the perpetrator is <strong>unblemished<\/strong>,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>if they <strong>make a confession<\/strong> and show insight,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>if they <strong>voluntarily release<\/strong> the victim and recognizably end the slavery-like situation,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>if they make an effort <strong>to make amends<\/strong>,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>if there is an <strong>extraordinary psychological burden<\/strong>,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>or if the proceedings <strong>take an excessively long time<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The court can <strong>conditionally suspend<\/strong> a prison sentence if it does not last longer than two years and the perpetrator is considered socially stable. For longer sentences, a partially conditional suspension comes into consideration. In addition, the court can order instructions, such as therapy, compensation for damages, or an obligation to stabilizing measures, provided they appear suitable.  <\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-strafrahmen\">Penalty Range<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the case of slavery, the penalty range in the basic case is <strong>between ten and twenty years of imprisonment<\/strong>. This penalty range always applies if the perpetrator either engages in trafficking in enslaved people or deprives a person of their personal freedom in the form of <strong>slavery<\/strong> or a <strong>slavery-like situation<\/strong>. It is crucial that the victim is <strong>permanently subjected to the power of the perpetrator<\/strong> and deprived of their actual freedom.  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A milder penalty range does <strong>not<\/strong> exist. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ris.bka.gv.at\/NormDokument.wxe?Abfrage=Bundesnormen&amp;Gesetzesnummer=10002296&amp;Artikel=&amp;Paragraf=104&amp;Anlage=&amp;Uebergangsrecht=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u00a7 104 of the Criminal Code<\/a> does not provide for a graduated penalty threat for less serious cases. The legislator treats all factual forms of slavery as particularly serious injustice, regardless of whether the deprivation of liberty is structured differently in individual cases. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Since the offense does not contain a qualified case of success, there is <strong>no further increasing penalty threat<\/strong>, even if there are additional burdens or dangers in connection with the act. The act remains a serious crime due to its <strong>mandatory subjugation of the victim<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A statutory mitigation of penalty through voluntary release is <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ris.bka.gv.at\/NormDokument.wxe?Abfrage=Bundesnormen&amp;Gesetzesnummer=10002296&amp;Artikel=&amp;Paragraf=104&amp;Anlage=&amp;Uebergangsrecht=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">not provided<\/a> for in <strong>\u00a7 104 of the Criminal Code<\/strong>. The court can only consider a voluntary termination of the slavery-like situation <strong>within the framework of the sentencing<\/strong>, not in the penalty range itself. <\/p>\n    <div class=\"mr-quote mrbg clearfix\">\n        <a class=\"mr-quote-person\" href=\"\/ueber-uns\/rechtsanwalt-peter-harlander\/\" title=\"Rechtsanwalt Peter Harlander\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"mr-quote-person-img\" src=\"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/themes\/harlander\/design\/ph100.webp\" width=\"100\"\n                 height=\"100\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Rechtsanwalt Peter Harlander\">\n            <span class=\"mr-quote-person-text\">\n            Peter Harlander<br>\n            <span class=\"mr-quote-person-function\">Harlander &amp; Partner Rechtsanw\u00e4lte<\/span>\n        <\/span>\n        <\/a>\n        <span class=\"mr-quote-content\">\u201eGeldstrafen eignen sich f\u00fcr viele Delikte, aber dort, wo Menschen \u00fcber lange Zeit beherrscht werden, steht regelm\u00e4\u00dfig die Freiheitsstrafe im Vordergrund.\u201c<\/span>\n    <\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-geldstrafe-tagessatzsystem\">Fine &#8211; Day-fine System<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Austrian criminal law calculates fines according to the <strong>day-fine system<\/strong>. The <strong>number of day-fines<\/strong> depends on the <strong>guilt<\/strong>, the <strong>amount per day<\/strong> depends on the <strong>financial capacity<\/strong>. In this way, the penalty is adapted to the personal circumstances and yet remains noticeable.  <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Range:<\/strong> up to <strong>720 day-fines<\/strong> \u2013 at least <strong>4 euros<\/strong>, at most <strong>5,000 euros<\/strong> per day.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Practical formula:<\/strong> Approximately <strong>6 months of imprisonment correspond to around 360 day-fines<\/strong>. This conversion serves only as <strong>orientation<\/strong> and is <strong>not a rigid scheme<\/strong>. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>In case of non-payment:<\/strong> The court can impose a <strong>substitute prison sentence<\/strong>. As a rule, the following applies: <strong>1 day of substitute imprisonment corresponds to 2 day-fines<\/strong>. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-freiheitsstrafe-amp-teil-bedingte-nachsicht\">Imprisonment and (partially) suspended sentence<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u00a7 37 of the Criminal Code: If the statutory penalty threat extends up to five years, the court can impose a fine instead of a short prison sentence of no more than one year.<br\/><strong>This possibility does not exist in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ris.bka.gv.at\/NormDokument.wxe?Abfrage=Bundesnormen&amp;Gesetzesnummer=10002296&amp;Artikel=&amp;Paragraf=104&amp;Anlage=&amp;Uebergangsrecht=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u00a7 104 of the Criminal Code<\/a><\/strong>, because the mildest penalty range is at <strong>ten years<\/strong>.<br\/>A <strong>fine is excluded<\/strong>, even if the specific case would be located in the lower range of the injustice.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u00a7 43 of the Criminal Code: A prison sentence can be conditionally suspended if it <strong>does not exceed two years<\/strong> and the perpetrator has a <strong>positive social prognosis<\/strong>.<br\/>This form of penalty remission <strong>is fundamentally only considered in extreme exceptional cases in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ris.bka.gv.at\/NormDokument.wxe?Abfrage=Bundesnormen&amp;Gesetzesnummer=10002296&amp;Artikel=&amp;Paragraf=104&amp;Anlage=&amp;Uebergangsrecht=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u00a7 104 of the Criminal Code<\/a><\/strong>, because the penalty threat lies far above the threshold at which typical individual cases fall within the range of penalties of up to two years.<br\/><strong>Only in the case of exceptionally minor fault<\/strong> and a significant reduction in burden or constellation is a conditional remission theoretically conceivable.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u00a7 43a of the Criminal Code: The partially conditional remission allows the combination of an <strong>unconditional<\/strong> and a <strong>conditional<\/strong> part of a prison sentence.<br\/>It is possible for penalties between <strong>more than six months and up to two years<\/strong>.<br\/>Since the penalty range of slavery <strong>only begins at ten years<\/strong>, an application <strong>only comes into question<\/strong> if the <strong>specific penalty is unusually low despite the high penalty range<\/strong>.<br\/>A partially conditional remission is therefore <strong>not excluded<\/strong>, but <strong>realistically only conceivable in extreme exceptional cases<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/criminal-law\/probation-assistance-and-instructions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u00a7\u00a7 50 to 52 of the Criminal Code:<\/a> The court can additionally issue <strong>instructions<\/strong> and order <strong>probation assistance<\/strong>.<br\/>Typical instructions concern <strong>compensation for damages<\/strong>, <strong>therapy<\/strong> or <strong>counseling<\/strong>, <strong>contact bans<\/strong>, <strong>residence restrictions<\/strong>, or other measures that serve <strong>stabilization<\/strong>.<br\/>The goal is a <strong>lasting legal probation<\/strong> and the <strong>avoidance of further criminal offenses<\/strong>, even if in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ris.bka.gv.at\/NormDokument.wxe?Abfrage=Bundesnormen&amp;Gesetzesnummer=10002296&amp;Artikel=&amp;Paragraf=104&amp;Anlage=&amp;Uebergangsrecht=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u00a7 104 of the Criminal Code<\/a>, due to the particular severity of the act, there is regularly a <strong>high need for security<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-zustandigkeit-der-gerichte\">Jurisdiction of the courts<\/h2>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-sachliche-zustandigkeit\">Subject-matter Jurisdiction<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the case of slavery according to <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ris.bka.gv.at\/NormDokument.wxe?Abfrage=Bundesnormen&amp;Gesetzesnummer=10002296&amp;Artikel=&amp;Paragraf=104&amp;Anlage=&amp;Uebergangsrecht=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u00a7 104 of the Criminal Code<\/a><\/strong>, <strong>the regional court regularly decides as a lay judge court<\/strong>, since the statutory penalty range in the basic case provides for <strong>ten to twenty years of imprisonment<\/strong> and thus a <strong>serious crime<\/strong> is given.<br\/>A jurisdiction of the individual judge is excluded because the penalty threat is significantly above five years.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A jury court is <strong>not<\/strong> provided for. Although the act is serious, the legislator does not provide for a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ris.bka.gv.at\/NormDokument.wxe?Abfrage=Bundesnormen&amp;Gesetzesnummer=10002296&amp;Artikel=&amp;Paragraf=104&amp;Anlage=&amp;Uebergangsrecht=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">mandatory life imprisonment<\/a> in <strong>\u00a7 104 of the Criminal Code<\/strong>, which is why the jurisdiction remains with the lay judge court. <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-ortliche-zustandigkeit\">Local Jurisdiction<\/h3>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The court <strong>of the place of the offense<\/strong> is responsible. What is decisive in particular is, <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>where<\/strong> the act of enslavement began,<br\/><strong>where<\/strong> the victim was brought or held in a slavery-like situation,<br\/><strong>or where<\/strong> the focus of the maintained exercise of power lay.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the place of the offense cannot be clearly determined, the jurisdiction is based on the <strong>residence of the accused person<\/strong>, the <strong>place of arrest<\/strong>, or the <strong>seat of the materially competent public prosecutor&#8217;s office<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The proceedings are conducted where a <strong>practical and orderly implementation<\/strong> is best guaranteed.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-instanzenzug\">Hierarchy of Courts<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An <strong>appeal to the Higher Regional Court<\/strong> is possible against judgments of the Regional Court.<br\/>Decisions of the Higher Regional Court can subsequently be challenged with a <strong>plea of nullity<\/strong> or further appeal to the <strong>Supreme Court<\/strong>.<\/p>\n    <div class=\"mr-quote mrbg clearfix\">\n        <a class=\"mr-quote-person\" href=\"\/en\/about-us\/sebastian-riedlmair\/\" title=\"Attorney Sebastian Riedlmair\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"mr-quote-person-img\" src=\"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/themes\/harlander\/design\/sr100.webp\" width=\"100\"\n                 height=\"100\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Attorney Sebastian Riedlmair\">\n            <span class=\"mr-quote-person-text\">\n            Sebastian Riedlmair<br>\n            <span class=\"mr-quote-person-function\">Harlander &amp; Partner Attorneys<\/span>\n        <\/span>\n        <\/a>\n        <span class=\"mr-quote-content\">\u201eZivilanspr\u00fcche im Strafverfahren holen ein St\u00fcck Selbstbestimmung zur\u00fcck, indem Opfer ihre Forderungen aktiv einbringen k\u00f6nnen.\u201c<\/span>\n    <\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-zivilanspruche-im-strafverfahren\">Civil claims in criminal proceedings<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the case of <strong>slavery according to<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ris.bka.gv.at\/NormDokument.wxe?Abfrage=Bundesnormen&amp;Gesetzesnummer=10002296&amp;Artikel=&amp;Paragraf=104&amp;Anlage=&amp;Uebergangsrecht=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> \u00a7 104 of the Criminal Code<\/a>, the victim themselves or close relatives can assert civil claims as private parties in the criminal proceedings. These include <strong>compensation for pain and suffering<\/strong>, <strong>therapy and treatment costs<\/strong>, <strong>loss of earnings<\/strong>, <strong>care costs<\/strong>, <strong>costs for psychological support<\/strong> as well as compensation for <strong>emotional suffering<\/strong> and other consequential damages caused by the <strong>slavery-like subjugation<\/strong>, the <strong>deprivation of personal freedom<\/strong> or the <strong>associated burden<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <strong>private party connection<\/strong> inhibits the statute of limitations of all asserted claims as long as the criminal proceedings are ongoing. Only after a legally binding conclusion does the limitation period begin to run again, insofar as the claim has not been fully awarded. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A <strong>voluntary compensation for damages<\/strong>, for example through an apology, financial compensation, or active support of the victim, can have a mitigating effect on the penalty if it is done in a timely, credible, and complete manner.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, if the perpetrator has <strong>consciously brought the victim into a slavery-like situation<\/strong>, <strong>created massive dependence<\/strong>, <strong>caused significant psychological or physical damage<\/strong>, or exploited the situation particularly ruthlessly, a later compensation for damages will generally lose its mitigating effect. In such cases, it can no longer outweigh the injustice committed. <\/p>\n<a class=\"mr-cta-link mr-cta-button-cal\" href=\"#h2-booking\" title=\"Free initial consultation\"><span class=\"mr-cta-link-normal\">Select your preferred appointment now:<\/span><span class=\"mr-cta-link-bold\">Free initial consultation<\/span><\/a>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-strafverfahren-im-uberblick\">Overview of criminal proceedings<\/h2>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>tart of investigation: <\/strong>formal suspect status upon concrete suspicion; from that point onward, full rights of the accused apply.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Police \/ Public Prosecutor: <\/strong>the public prosecutor directs the proceedings, the criminal police conduct the investigation; objective: dismissal of the case, diversion, or indictment.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Interrogation of the accused: <\/strong>prior instruction on rights; involvement of a defense attorney leads to postponement; right to remain silent remains unaffected.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Access to the case file:<\/strong> available at the police, public prosecutor\u2019s office, or court; also includes evidence items (insofar as the purpose of the investigation is not jeopardized).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Main hearing:<\/strong> oral taking of evidence and judgment; decision on civil claims joined to the criminal proceedings.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-beschuldigtenrechte\">Rights of the accused<\/h2>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Information &amp; defense: <\/strong>right to notification, legal aid, free choice of defense counsel, translation assistance, and submission of evidence motions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Silence &amp; counsel:<\/strong> right to remain silent at any time; if a defense attorney is requested, the interrogation must be postponed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Duty to inform:<\/strong> prompt notification of suspicion and rights; exceptions only permitted to safeguard the purpose of the investigation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Practical access to files:<\/strong> investigation and trial records; access by third parties is restricted to protect the accused.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<a class=\"mr-cta-link mr-cta-button-cal\" href=\"#h2-booking\" title=\"Free initial consultation\"><span class=\"mr-cta-link-normal\">Select your preferred appointment now:<\/span><span class=\"mr-cta-link-bold\">Free initial consultation<\/span><\/a>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-praxis-amp-verhaltenstipps\">Practical guidance and behavioural advice<\/h2>\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Maintain silence.<\/strong><br\/>A brief statement is sufficient: \u201cI am exercising my right to remain silent and will first speak with my defense counsel.\u201d<br\/>This right applies from the very first interrogation by the police or the public prosecutor. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Contact defense counsel immediately.<\/strong><br\/>No statement should be made without access to the investigation files. Only after reviewing the files can the defense assess which strategy and evidence preservation measures are appropriate. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Secure evidence immediately.<\/strong><br\/>Obtain medical reports; take photographs with date and scale and, where appropriate, X-ray or CT images. Store clothing, objects, and digital records separately. Prepare a witness list and contemporaneous recollection notes within two days at the latest.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Do not contact the opposing party.<\/strong><br\/>Your own messages, calls, or posts may be used as evidence against you. All communication should take place exclusively through your defense counsel. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Secure video and data recordings in time.<\/strong><br\/>Surveillance videos from public transport, venues, or property management systems are often automatically deleted after only a few days. Requests for data preservation must therefore be submitted immediately to the operators, the police, or the public prosecutor\u2019s office. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Document searches and seizures.<br\/>In cases of house searches or seizures, you should request a copy of the warrant or record. Note the date, time, persons involved, and all items taken. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>In case of arrest: make no statements about the matter.<\/strong><br\/>Insist on immediate notification of your defense counsel. Pre-trial detention may only be imposed if there is strong suspicion of guilt and an additional ground for detention. Less severe measures (e.g., pledge, reporting duty, contact ban) must take precedence.  <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Prepare compensation for damages strategically.<br\/>Payments or offers of reparation should be handled and documented exclusively through defense counsel. Structured compensation for damages has a positive effect on diversion and sentencing. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-ihre-vorteile-mit-anwaltlicher-unterstutzung\">Your Benefits with Legal Assistance<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Proceedings for <strong>slavery or slavery-like exploitation<\/strong> are among the most legally demanding areas of criminal law. The accusations concern the <strong>core areas of personal freedom<\/strong>, deeply interfere with human dignity, and regularly have complex evidentiary questions regarding the actual exercise of power, dependence, and voluntariness. It is often disputed whether a slavery-like situation actually existed, whether the victim voluntarily chose their situation, or whether dependence, deception, or structural pressure shaped the decision.  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether a punishable slavery exists depends decisively on whether the victim was <strong>actually subjected to the power of the perpetrator<\/strong> and whether this situation excludes <strong>voluntary, informed consent<\/strong>. Even minor differences in living conditions, working conditions, financial or personal dependencies can fundamentally change the legal assessment. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Legal representation from the beginning is therefore essential. It ensures that evidence is properly collected, communication processes are correctly classified, and structural dependencies or false accusations are clearly worked out. Only with a precise legal analysis can it be determined whether a punishable slavery actually existed or whether the accusation is based on misunderstandings, intra-family conflicts, economic tensions, or incorrect assumptions.  <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Our law firm<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>examines<\/strong> whether a slavery-like situation was legally given or whether voluntariness, contractual relationships, or a lack of dependence speak against criminal liability,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>analyzes<\/strong> statements, message histories, work and living situations, as well as structural dependencies for contradictions and actual bonds,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>accompanies<\/strong> you through the entire investigation and court proceedings and protects you from one-sided or incomplete representations,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>develops<\/strong> a defense strategy that precisely and comprehensibly presents your actual role, the living conditions, and the nature of the relationship to the victim,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>and <strong>ensures<\/strong> that your rights in the proceedings are consistently protected against the police, public prosecutor&#8217;s office, and court.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A professionally sound, structured, and objective defense ensures that the accusation of slavery is legally correctly examined and the actual living conditions are comprehensively taken into account. In this way, you receive a clear and professional representation that aims at a fair and comprehensible solution. <\/p>\n<a class=\"mr-cta-link mr-cta-button-cal\" href=\"#h2-booking\" title=\"Free initial consultation\"><span class=\"mr-cta-link-normal\">Select your preferred appointment now:<\/span><span class=\"mr-cta-link-bold\">Free initial consultation<\/span><\/a>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-faq-haufig-gestellte-fragen\">FAQ &#8211; Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq uagb-faq__outer-wrap uagb-block-FAQ-Sklaverei uagb-faq-icon-row uagb-faq-layout-accordion uagb-faq-expand-first-true uagb-faq-inactive-other-true uagb-faq__wrap uagb-buttons-layout-wrap uagb-faq-equal-height     \" data-faqtoggle=\"true\" role=\"tablist\"><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/harlander-partner.eu\\\/en\\\/criminal-law\\\/slavery\\\/\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What does criminal law understand by slavery according to \\u00a7 104 of the Criminal Code?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Slavery exists when a person exercises complete or extensive control over another human being, thereby depriving them of their personal freedom. The victim can then no longer independently decide on their place of residence, work, and fundamental way of life. Crucially, a permanent relationship of dominance exists that practically eliminates self-determination. It is sufficient that the overall dependency amounts to a slavery-like situation.   \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What is the difference between slavery and mere exploitation?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Mere exploitation occurs when someone accepts inappropriate working conditions or remuneration but retains their fundamental freedom of decision. Slavery goes significantly further because the affected person can no longer freely shape their life and is, in fact, at the mercy of others. Typically, the victim cannot realistically change their place of residence or work situation without risking significant disadvantages. It is this totality of control that distinguishes it from simple exploitation.   \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Does it matter whether the victim entered the situation voluntarily?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Initial consent does not preclude slavery if the affected person later has no actual possibility to leave the situation. Especially in cases of deception, exploitation of a predicament, or psychological pressure, so-called voluntariness can have little legal weight. It is important whether the victim can still make free decisions or is trapped in a relationship of dependency. The stronger the control, isolation, and pressure, the more likely a slavery-like situation exists.   \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"How is slavery proven in criminal proceedings?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The court evaluates all circumstances of the victim's living and working situation in context. Evidence includes witness statements, employment contracts, communication records, travel and residence data, as well as photos or videos. It is important whether an overall picture emerges that demonstrates extensive external control and dominance. Expert opinions on psychological dependency or helplessness can also play a decisive role.   \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What consequences can be expected from a conviction for slavery?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Slavery is among the most serious offenses against personal liberty and carries a very high penalty framework. In many cases, the court imposes multi-year prison sentences, often without or with only limited suspended sentences. Additionally, victims can claim compensation for pain and suffering and further damages. The entry in the criminal record and the public impact of such a conviction are usually severe and long-lasting.   \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What should I do if I am accused of slavery under \\u00a7 104 StGB?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"You should not make any substantive statements to the police or public prosecutor's office before speaking with a defense lawyer. The accusation concerns a particularly serious offense, therefore ill-considered statements can quickly have detrimental effects. Secure all documents and communication data that support your view of the living and working situation. Contact legal representation experienced in criminal law immediately, so that evidence can be specifically secured and a clear defense strategy can be built.   \"}}]}<\/script><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-Sklaverei-Q1 \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-question\">What does criminal law understand by slavery according to \u00a7 104 of the Criminal Code?<\/span><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>Slavery exists when a person exercises complete or extensive control over another human being, thereby depriving them of their personal freedom. The victim can then no longer independently decide on their place of residence, work, and fundamental way of life. Crucially, a permanent relationship of dominance exists that practically eliminates self-determination. It is sufficient that the overall dependency amounts to a slavery-like situation.   <\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-Sklaverei-Q2 \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-question\">What is the difference between slavery and mere exploitation?<\/span><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>Mere exploitation occurs when someone accepts inappropriate working conditions or remuneration but retains their fundamental freedom of decision. Slavery goes significantly further because the affected person can no longer freely shape their life and is, in fact, at the mercy of others. Typically, the victim cannot realistically change their place of residence or work situation without risking significant disadvantages. It is this totality of control that distinguishes it from simple exploitation.   <\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-Sklaverei-Q3 \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-question\">Does it matter whether the victim entered the situation voluntarily?<\/span><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>Initial consent does not preclude slavery if the affected person later has no actual possibility to leave the situation. Especially in cases of deception, exploitation of a predicament, or psychological pressure, so-called voluntariness can have little legal weight. It is important whether the victim can still make free decisions or is trapped in a relationship of dependency. The stronger the control, isolation, and pressure, the more likely a slavery-like situation exists.   <\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-Sklaverei-Q5 \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-question\">How is slavery proven in criminal proceedings?<\/span><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>The court evaluates all circumstances of the victim&#8217;s living and working situation in context. Evidence includes witness statements, employment contracts, communication records, travel and residence data, as well as photos or videos. It is important whether an overall picture emerges that demonstrates extensive external control and dominance. Expert opinions on psychological dependency or helplessness can also play a decisive role.   <\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-Sklaverei-Q6 \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-question\">What consequences can be expected from a conviction for slavery?<\/span><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>Slavery is among the most serious offenses against personal liberty and carries a very high penalty framework. In many cases, the court imposes multi-year prison sentences, often without or with only limited suspended sentences. Additionally, victims can claim compensation for pain and suffering and further damages. The entry in the criminal record and the public impact of such a conviction are usually severe and long-lasting.   <\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-Sklaverei-Q7 \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-question\">What should I do if I am accused of slavery under \u00a7 104 StGB?<\/span><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>You should not make any substantive statements to the police or public prosecutor&#8217;s office before speaking with a defense lawyer. The accusation concerns a particularly serious offense, therefore ill-considered statements can quickly have detrimental effects. Secure all documents and communication data that support your view of the living and working situation. Contact legal representation experienced in criminal law immediately, so that evidence can be specifically secured and a clear defense strategy can be built.   <\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><a class=\"mr-cta-link mr-cta-button-cal\" href=\"#h2-booking\" title=\"Free initial consultation\"><span class=\"mr-cta-link-normal\">Select your preferred appointment now:<\/span><span class=\"mr-cta-link-bold\">Free initial consultation<\/span><\/a>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Slavery Slavery under \u00a7 104 StGB exists when a person treats another like an object and deprives them of their personal freedom completely or largely. This refers to situations in &#8230;","protected":false},"author":25,"featured_media":29487,"parent":40715,"menu_order":5,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_uag_custom_page_level_css":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[345],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-31441","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-criminal-law"],"acf":[],"uagb_featured_image_src":{"full":["https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7104-Sklaverei.webp",1920,1080,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7104-Sklaverei-100x100.webp",100,100,true],"medium":["https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7104-Sklaverei-800x450.webp",800,450,true],"medium_large":["https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7104-Sklaverei.webp",1920,1080,false],"large":["https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7104-Sklaverei.webp",1920,1080,false],"1536x1536":["https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7104-Sklaverei.webp",1536,864,false],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7104-Sklaverei.webp",1920,1080,false],"336x":["https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7104-Sklaverei-336x189.webp",336,189,true],"352x":["https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7104-Sklaverei-352x198.webp",352,198,true],"woocommerce_thumbnail":["https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7104-Sklaverei-300x300.webp",300,300,true],"woocommerce_single":["https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7104-Sklaverei-600x338.webp",600,338,true],"woocommerce_gallery_thumbnail":["https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7104-Sklaverei-100x100.webp",100,100,true],"yarpp-thumbnail":["https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7104-Sklaverei-120x120.webp",120,120,true]},"uagb_author_info":{"display_name":"Simon Prem","author_link":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/author\/simon-prem\/"},"uagb_comment_info":0,"uagb_excerpt":"Slavery Slavery under \u00a7 104 StGB exists when a person treats another like an object and deprives them of their personal freedom completely or largely. This refers to situations in ...","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/31441","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/25"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=31441"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/31441\/revisions"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/40715"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/29487"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=31441"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=31441"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=31441"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}