Keeping an Eye Out for Signs of Sexual Abuse
The very thought of sexual abuse is so disturbing that it may falsely lead you to believe it cannot happen to someone you love. A failure to remain alert to indicators of possible sexual abuse may lead to prolonged suffering for your loved one. Sexual abuse in any form and against victims of any age is not only illegal, it can result in great emotional, physical, and financial stress. If you or a close loved one is the victim of sexual abuse, a sexual abuse lawyer can help you pursue justice and possible compensation.Sexual Abuse is Real
According to the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN), every 73 seconds an American is sexually assaulted. Every nine minutes, the victim is a child. RAINN also reports that the vast majority of sexual abuse perpetrators are less likely to go to jail than other criminals. Of 1,000 sexual assaults, RAINN estimates that 995 perpetrators will go free. Regardless of any action by the criminal court system, you may have the right to pursue a civil case against the party responsible for the abuse. These statistics are alarming and provide a portrayal of why it is so important to be alert to behavioral indicators of sexual abuse. The first step toward identifying the sexual abuse of your loved one is to understand what sexual abuse is and the different types of abuse.Types of Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse is non-consensual sexual interaction. From victims ranging in age from young children to the elderly, sexual abuse includes many forms and types:- Unwanted touching or fondling of any kind, especially in the areas of breasts and genitals
- Rape, oral, or anal sex
- Taking explicit pictures for sharing with others, either online or in-person
- Forced nudity
- Forced viewing of pornography
- Ninety-three percent of children who suffered sexual abuse knew their victim.
- Fifty-nine percent were acquaintances.
- Thirty-four percent were family members.
- Seven percent were strangers.
Signs of Possible Sexual Abuse
If your loved one exhibits changes in their behavior or their emotions, these changes may signal sexual abuse. Knowing what signs and symptoms to watch for is imperative for seeking the help they need, and for reporting the abuse. By remaining alert to these behavioral indicators of possible sexual abuse, you can take action sooner rather than later:- Anxiety;
- Depression;
- Withdrawn behavior;
- Nightmares;
- A desire to not be left alone; or
- Angry outbursts.
- Nearly 4 times more likely to develop symptoms of drug abuse.
- Nearly 4 times more likely to develop Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as adults.
- Nearly 3 times more likely to experience a major depressive episode as adults.
- Approximately 37 percent of victims found it increasingly difficult to trust family or friends.
- Nearly 84 percent of survivors experienced difficulty with relationships and at work due to emotional issues.
Potentially Recoverable Sexual Abuse Damages
If the perpetrator who sexually abused your loved one faces criminal charges for their actions, you may still file a civil case. Any criminal case related to the sexual abuse of your loved one has no bearing on a sexual abuse lawsuit. While each case is different, you or your loved one may be entitled to the following types of damages:- Medical costs for any physical harm.
- Ongoing medical costs, like that of therapy and counseling.
- Pain and suffering.
Why You Should Consider a Sexual Abuse Lawyer
From large nonprofit organizations for children to for-profit nursing homes, sexual abuse is never okay. Organizations and corporations may attempt to hide behind their insurance companies. To protect them, insurance companies may offer victims a settlement that is less than they deserve. Insurance companies generally want to protect their best interests and the best interests of their clients. Their primary goal is often to settle your claim as quickly and as quietly as possible. They may also try to settle your claim for the least amount of money possible. You should refuse their offer and consider hiring legal representation instead. Most sexual abuse lawyers are well-versed in the strategies that many insurance companies use to try to avoid paying abuse victims the compensation they deserve. While most sexual abuse cases are often settled out of court, sometimes going to trial is necessary. A sexual abuse lawyer can help you try to secure the best possible outcome of your case. The sexual abuse you or your loved one endured demands your full attention for healing and rest. Sexual abuse of a loved one, whether it is a child or an elderly family member, can be highly emotional. Securing the services of a sexual abuse lawyer takes the details of the case out of your hands and off your shoulders. As lawyers who protect victim's rights, sexual abuse lawyers understand how sensitive the topic of sexual abuse can be for victims. This is why they treat their clients with the utmost respect and compassion. Their commitment to securing the best outcome possible for your case never wavers, and they stand firm against aggressive insurance companies. To begin the civil process for your case, contact an attorney as soon as possible. The statute of limitations is a key factor in filing your lawsuit, and it is one of the top reasons securing legal representation can help your case.The Statute of Limitations For Sexual Abuse Claims
A sexual abuse lawyer understands how to navigate the statute of limitations regarding civil cases. This can be vital for your sexual abuse case due to the unique exceptions for cases involving sexual abuse. Under Florida law, the following rules apply:- There is no civil statute of limitations for claims involving felony child sexual battery offenses. This applies to cases where the victim was under the age of 16.
- For other child sex abuse-related claims, the statute of limitations is capped at the age of 25. This rule applies to victims who suffered abuse at the age of 16 and 17.
- A sexual abuse victim may file civil litigation up to four years from the discovery of the connection between their injury and the abuser.
Remain Calm When Dealing With Sexual Abuse
Learning of the sexual abuse of your loved one—whether it is your child or your elderly parent—can be extremely upsetting. You may want to confront the person responsible for the harm of your loved one. It is extremely important for your civil case that you remain calm and let a sexual abuse lawyer handle your case. Knowing that someone is representing your loved one's best interests can allow you more time to focus on your loved one. The right sexual abuse lawyer for your case will keep you informed throughout the process. From updates regarding your case to treating you with care and compassion, a sexual abuse lawyer could be on your side. Learning important behavioral clues regarding possible sexual abuse is an important first step to helping your loved one. Remaining calm throughout the legal process is important when seeking justice.Do Not Hesitate; Seek Legal Representation Now
Debating whether you can afford a lawyer may cost you precious time from filing your case. Sexual abuse lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they collect their fee from winnings you receive in your case.
Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA 800 North Belcher Road< Clearwater, FL 33765 (727) 451-6900