What Are Your Legal Options After Sexual Abuse?
Sexual abuse is a heinous crime that can have a lasting effect on its victims. Fortunately, the law provides legal options for individuals who have been subjected to sexual abuse.
Our Seattle sexual abuse lawyers at Emerald Law Group can explain what constitutes sexual abuse and the civil and criminal lawsuits that victims may bring against their abusers. We understand the sensitive nature of personal injury cases involving sexual abuse and are committed to fighting on behalf of abused victims.
What Is Sexual Abuse?
Sexual abuse is any type of unwelcome sexual contact or behavior that occurs without consent. This includes rape, molestation, fondling, sexual harassment, and other forms of unwanted contact. It is important to note that even when there has been no physical contact, an individual may still be considered a victim of sexual abuse if they were subjected to verbal or visual harassment of a sexual nature.
Fact: According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than half of women experience some form of sexual violence that involves physical contact in their lives. Men are less likely to be subjected to sexual abuse, as nearly one in three men experiences sexual violence.
Civil and Criminal Lawsuits for Sexual Abuse
Depending on the facts of the case, victims of sexual abuse may be able to pursue civil or criminal lawsuits against their abuser(s). Civil lawsuits are typically brought in order to recover monetary damages for pain and suffering caused by the abuse. These damages can include medical expenses, lost wages due to time away from work, counseling costs, and more.
Criminal cases are handled by law enforcement officials who investigate the allegations and file charges against the perpetrator if they believe a crime has been committed. If convicted, criminal penalties can include imprisonment as well as restitution payments made by the abuser to their victim(s).
Why Sue for Sexual Abuse?
For many survivors of sexual assault or harassment, pursuing legal action against their abuser(s) can provide closure after such an emotionally traumatic experience. It can also be beneficial to sue because it puts other potential predators on notice that this kind of behavior will not be tolerated in society.
Furthermore, suing for damages may help reduce financial burdens associated with recovery from this kind of trauma so that survivors can focus on their healing process without worrying about medical bills or lost wages due to taking time off work for appointments with counselors or doctors related to their recovery from the trauma suffered at the hands of their abuser(s).
How Can an Attorney Help You Sue for Sexual Abuse?
An experienced attorney can provide invaluable assistance when it comes to filing a civil lawsuit against your abuser(s). They understand how complicated these types of cases can be both emotionally and legally which makes them uniquely qualified to handle these sensitive matters with care and compassion while still fighting aggressively on behalf of their client’s rights in court. Additionally, attorneys are familiar with all applicable laws regarding civil suits involving sexual abuse which helps ensure that you receive maximum compensation for your injuries as well as justice from those responsible for causing them in the first place.
Discuss Your Legal Case with Emerald Law Group
Suing for damages after becoming a victim of sexual abuse is important both financially and emotionally. With its complicated legal landscape, consulting with an experienced attorney who specializes in these types of cases is key if you are considering bringing suit against your abuser(s).
Our skilled lawyers at Emerald Law Group can provide invaluable guidance throughout every step along the way so that you get justice as well as compensation for any pain and suffering incurred due to your experience with sexual violence or harassment. Call 206-826-5160 for a free case evaluation.
Source:
cdc.gov/violenceprevention/sexualviolence/fastfact.html
