Sexual Abuse Law Firm
What is Considered Sexual Abuse?
Sexual abuse is a term used to describe abuse that occurs when a person knowingly pressures or forces another individual to engage in sexual acts by causing fear or threatening, or if an individual engages in sexual acts with another individual who isn’t capable of giving consent or isn’t able to appraise the nature of the act. Sexual abuse is a term that’s commonly used to describe behaviors that are directed toward children. Each state has laws that recognize that a child cannot give informed consent to a sexual act. The age of consent will vary from state to state but is typically from ages 16-18.
Types Of Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse can occur at any time, in many different ways. Sexual abuse is a broad term that includes multiple types of offenses.
Types of sexual abuse can include:
- Clergy sexual abuse
- Boy Scout sexual abuse
- Attempted rape
- Child sexual abuse
- Sexual harassment
- Sexual molestation
Any type of unwanted sexual activity, contact, or attention may fall under sexual abuse. It can include the distribution of sexually explicit content without permission, forced touch, exposure of sexual organs, forced penetration, unwanted advancements or requests, or videos or photos.
What Are Signs Of Sexual Abuse?
Experiencing sexual harassment or abuse can affect a victim in many ways, causing mental, emotional, or physical health issues.
The physical effects of sexual abuse can include:
- Eating disorders
- Sleep disorders
- Increased fatigue
- Headaches
- Increased stress
Emotional effects may include:
- Shame
- Humiliation
- Loss of control
- Fear
- Guilt
- Anger
Mental health effects can include:
- Loss of motivation
- PTSD
- Substance abuse
- Trouble concentrating
- Panic attacks
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Suicidal thoughts
Sexual Abuse Lawsuits vs. Sexual Abuse Criminal Cases
Criminal cases and civil lawsuits have many key differences, including:
Civil Lawsuits
A civil lawsuit that involves sexual abuse is filed on behalf of the victim. The evidence is analyzed and a judge and jury determine the results. If the court decides that sexual abuse took place, the judge or jury will examine the damages the victim is seeking to determine a fair award amount. The purpose of civil suits, unlike criminal cases, is to determine if the defendant is legally liable for the damages the victim suffered. A sexual abuse lawyer at Parker Waichman LLP will work closely with you to gather and present evidence that will maximize the legal payout.
Sexual Abuse Criminal Cases
A criminal case begins when the abuse is reported to law enforcement. If the investigation conducted by law enforcement results in an arrest, the suspect will be facing sexual abuse charges and can be subjected to prosecution. If found guilty, the defendant will face punishment including fines, incarceration, and probation.
The main difference between a criminal case and a civil suit is the victim will not be compensated for the sexual abuse in a criminal case.
Even if a criminal case is filed, a victim of sexual abuse can still file a civil suit.
How Can a Sexual Abuse Attorney Help?
During this challenging time, you need an experienced, skilled sexual abuse lawyer in your corner. While you can represent yourself and manage your case on your own, it can be very difficult. Working with an attorney who has handled countless sexual abuse cases can ensure your case is handled properly and you pursue the maximum compensation you’re owed.
When you work with an experienced sexual abuse attorney at Parker Waichman LLP, they can help you during this challenging time in many ways, including:
- Helping you to understand the requirements that are involved in sexual abuse lawsuits
- Discuss and explore your options to pursue compensation
- Determine liability for all parties involved
- Assess your damages
- File a sexual abuse lawsuit
- Represent you in court
- Collect your damages
- Manage any appeals filed
At Parker Waichman LLP, our sexual abuse lawyers go above and beyond to help sexual abuse survivors navigate the legal process during this difficult time, providing the compassionate, knowledgeable, and dedicated legal support and guidance you need while helping you recover the compensation you’re owed.
Building a Strong Case
At Parker Waichman LLP, our sexual abuse lawyers will focus on building the strongest case possible, obtaining any evidence they can from health professionals and authorities. They will also accept any evidence you may have collected.
Evidence can include:
- In court testimony from witnesses, you, experts, or the defendant
- The defendant’s criminal history records
- Medical records
- Journals
- Clothing worn during the abuse
- Pictures and video
- Police reports
And More.
Your sexual abuse attorney will discuss the case with you and determine what evidence must be collected and what evidence you may already have in your possession. If you sought medical attention after an assault, a medical professional most likely tracked and stored the evidence that was obtained from an exam.
A subpoena is often necessary to obtain reports from doctors, hospitals, and law enforcement. Our legal team has experience filing the necessary documents needed to obtain evidence.
Contact Us Today
Sexual abuse is something no one should have to experience. If you were a victim of sexual abuse, you have legal rights and options that can hold your abuser financially liable for the harm you have suffered. At Parker Waichman LLP, our sexual abuse lawyers are here to listen, guide you, and make the entire legal process as low-stress as possible. To learn more, contact us today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced member of our legal team.
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