Cases of child sexual abuse don't just happen in homes; they also exist in schools and other places. The best way to protect children from sexual abuse is to be vigilant and then know how to handle abuse situations when they arise.
If you suspect your child has been sexually abused, a Boca Raton child sexual abuse lawyer with Dolman Law Group could help you bring the perpetrator to justice and recover financial compensation to help with the healing process. To build a strong case, we can investigate the circumstances, collect evidence, and advocate for the victim when filing a claim or lawsuit against the abuser or others who are responsible for the abuse
What are the Signs of Child Sexual Abuse?
When sexual abuse happens, it may be difficult for a child to open up to a parent or trusted adult. They may feel ashamed, guilty, or embarrassed about what happened. It's important to look for signs of sexual abuse even when the child fails to disclose what happened. The following are some signs of sexual abuse to watch for in your child or other children you know:
- Behavior changes, including withdrawal from a previously outgoing child, mood swings, fear, and irritability
- Nightmares, bedwetting, or anxiety about going to bed
- A sudden act of rebellion or aggressive behavior
- Developing an unusual interest in sexual matters
- Fear of certain people, places, or activities
- Unexplained bodily harm, like rashes, bruises, cuts, and limping
- Pain, itching, fluid, or bleeding in the child's private parts
Who Can Be Held Liable for Child Sexual Abuse?
In many cases, these crimes could have been prevented if other people had acted in a way that would have protected the child. A skilled child sexual abuse lawyer can explain when it's possible to bring lawsuits against negligent third parties who could have stopped the abuse from happening.
Here are some of the most common situations where a third party may be held liable for a child's abuse:
- Teachers and staff members at school who suspected abuse but failed to report it or failed to otherwise protect a student from abuse
- The abuser's extended family members
- The abuser's friends
- The abuser's employer if they worked in a position of trust with the child or spent a lot of time with them in an unsupervised setting
What are the Deadlines to File a Child Abuse Case?
In Boca Raton, the statute of limitations for child sexual abuse lawsuits differs depending on the type of crime that took place. Generally speaking, the law allows people who were sexually abused as children more time to file their lawsuits because of how long it takes for victims of sexual abuse to realize they were abused and come forward with their stories.
The basic nature of these abuse situations makes these cases incredibly complex. A compassionate child sexual abuse attorney with our firm can listen to your unique circumstances and help you determine how long you have to file a lawsuit against the responsible party.
Common Legal Damages a Dedicated Child Sexual Abuse Lawyer in Boca Raton Can Help You Recover
Child sexual abuse lawsuits are designed to compensate victims for financial losses and make them whole again. There may be no limit to the amount of money awarded in a child sexual abuse lawsuit. However, the financial recovery is contingent on proving that the perpetrator is liable or responsible for causing the harm.
Child sexual assault survivors can request various types of compensation, including:
Medical and Psychological Expenses
Sexual abuse survivors can experience significant medical and emotional harm. Children who were abused at a young age may deal with physical and mental health concerns for the rest of their lives. The cost of medical care and ongoing therapy can be so great some survivors can't afford to seek the treatment they need and deserve. Those who are responsible for the child's abuse should bear the obligation to pay for needed medical care.
Nominal Damages
Nominal damages are awarded when there's no physical injury or damage, but it's established that the abuser violated the child's rights. These damages are intended to show that an injury occurred and help prevent future injuries. Nominal damages confirm that a violation occurred and serve as a deterrent to future abuse.
Loss of Life Enjoyment
In a civil case, courts will consider physical and emotional injuries and any future impact the abuse may have on a victim's ability to function in society. A Boca Raton child sexual abuse lawyer on our team could help estimate any future expenses associated with this type of damages.
Pain and Suffering
One of the most substantial damages awarded in child sexual abuse cases is pain and suffering, which compensates the abuse survivor for the physical and emotional turmoil caused by the incident. This loss can include the physical pain caused by the sexual assault itself and mental health issues that were exacerbated or created.
Financial Harm
Child victims of sexual abuse often incur high costs from medical treatment and therapy to deal with the consequences of their trauma. These costs can also be awarded in civil lawsuits against perpetrators or responsible institutions, like churches or schools.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages may be awarded in some instances where the defendant acted maliciously or with gross negligence. These damages are meant to punish abusers for egregious behavior and set an example for other potential offenders.
Why Hire a Boca Raton Child Sexual Abuse Lawyer at Dolman Law Group?
Child sexual abuse cases are incredibly complex. The legal system can be confusing and intimidating to navigate, especially if you or your child has just experienced such a traumatic event. Enlist someone who knows the law and can protect your child's rights and interests. At Dolman Law Group, we can build a solid case by:
- Collecting and analyzing evidence
- Taking witness statements
- Assessing and calculating the full extent of your losses
- Communicating with the courts and other attorneys
- Negotiating for a fair settlement
- Fighting for you in a trial, if necessary
A child abuse lawyer on our Boca Raton team can help you hold the abuser accountable for their actions. Sexual abuse is a horrible offense, and every allegation must be examined with the strictest scrutiny and utmost compassion to protect the innocence of children.
Contact the Child Sexual Abuse Lawyers at Dolman Law Group Today to Learn More
Child sexual abuse is a devastating experience. As a survivor, trying to protect your legal rights and bring your abuser to justice can be utterly overwhelming. Rather than face the complicated legal system on your own, turn to an experienced and empathetic child sexual abuse attorney at Dolman Law Group.
Our Boca Raton child sexual abuse lawyers have the experience and skills to negotiate a settlement or file a lawsuit on your behalf. We'll strive to get you justice while protecting your legal rights every step of the way.
Call our dedicated Boca Raton team at 561-220-4963 or complete our online contact form today for a free, confidential consultation and case review. You won't owe us anything upfront, and we won't receive legal fees unless we successfully resolve your case. When you're ready to move forward, give us a call.
Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA
301 Yamato Road, Suite 1240
Boca Raton, Florida 33431
561-220-4963