Helping victims of sexual abuse to get compensation for their damages.
Sexual abuse is a devastating crime. Survivors are left grappling with physical, mental, and emotional scars.
Many survivors seek justice as part of the healing process. Boca Raton sexual abuse lawyers can play a key supporting role here, providing compassionate advocacy for survivors as they navigate the complex legal terrain around sexual abuse.
Sexual abuse is sexual contact or behavior that occurs without explicit consent. Physical contact may or may not occur–verbal sexual harassment, indecent exposure, and revenge porn also count.
Despite public perception, research has shown that sexual abuse tends to occur within the victim’s close social circle. Three out of four survivors were victimized by someone they knew well. Common locations for sexual abuse include workplaces, schools, healthcare facilities, and within the home.
Each survivor of sexual abuse has their own unique needs, but some general steps can help start the process of finding justice.
Filing a lawsuit serves multiple purposes, each important in serving justice and holding an offender responsible for the harm they’ve caused.
The impact of sexual abuse is profound, and survivors often face medical bills, therapy, lost wages, and other financial hardships. You deserve compensation, not only for these expenses but for the pain and suffering you endure.
Many perpetrators of sexual abuse go unpunished, with their crimes unnoticed. Legal action holds your abuser accountable for their actions, both identifying the danger they pose and sending a message that such actions will not be tolerated.
Apart from the abuser, other parties may share responsibility for the abuse. Negligent security, such as a poorly lit parking lot, can create an environment where abuse can occur. Holding these parties accountable can be key to achieving comprehensive justice. In a negligent security case, you would file a lawsuit against the property owners, citing evidence such as poor lighting or lack of security as hazards that lead to your abuse.
Another example of a liable party would be the company responsible for vetting the person who assaulted you, as in the case of the Uber sexual assault lawsuits. WHG will be able to tell you who the target of your lawsuit should be, and they’ll investigate your case to determine how best to bring about justice.
No matter the victim, sexual abuse has a profound impact that extends far beyond the immediate trauma. Victims often grapple with long-lasting effects on their mental and emotional well-being.
PTSD, anxiety, and depression are common. Survivors have increased rates of drug and alcohol abuse and are more likely to experience more violence later on in their lives.
Medical expenses, counseling, lost productivity, and pressing criminal charges also have a financial impact on sexual abuse survivors–sometimes estimated at over $100,000 for some victims–further highlighting the importance of compensation in the fight for justice.
Survivors of sexual abuse in Boca Raton can pursue justice in two settings: criminal litigation and a civil lawsuit. Both approaches have their strengths. Plaintiffs can pursue both at the same time.
When sexual abuse occurs, survivors often turn to the criminal justice system first. In a criminal case, the state brings charges against the perpetrator. The focus is on holding the offender criminally responsible for their actions, potentially leading to fines, imprisonment, or other criminal penalties.
While criminal litigation can be a way for survivors to obtain justice, the focus is on addressing the crimes committed against society, not necessarily on the needs of the survivor. The state prosecutes the case how they see fit, and may not adequately address the individual survivor’s need for compensation and closure.
In contrast, a civil lawsuit is initiated by the survivor, to recover damages. The burden of proof is much lower here: the plaintiff only needs to show that it is more likely than not that the defendant is responsible for the harm.
The civil lawsuit is a way for survivors to pursue justice on a personal level, addressing the specific harm inflicted upon them. While a successful criminal case may result in the offender facing jail time or other legal consequences, a civil lawsuit focuses on obtaining financial restitution for the survivor. Your lawsuit is a way to take control of your own narrative, pursue compensation, and hold additional parties responsible.
The Boca Raton attorneys at Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia are dedicated to advocating for survivors of sexual abuse and ensuring they receive the justice they deserve. Our compassionate approach and legal know-how make us a strong ally for any survivors as they navigate the complexities of their case. Your well-being is our priority.
Medical records, text messages, and witness statements can all help provide evidence in a sexual abuse case.
The compensation available in a sexual abuse case varies depending on the resulting damages. An experienced sexual abuse lawyer can assess your case and provide guidance on the compensation you can pursue.
While it is not mandatory to file a police report after sexual abuse, doing so can help strengthen your case. However, your well-being is the priority. If filing a police report isn’t feasible, consulting with a sexual abuse lawyer can help you explore other options for seeking justice.
