Cases of child sexual abuse don't just remain in homes; they also exist at school and other places. The best way to protect the children is to be vigilant and know how to handle such situations when they arise.
If you suspect your child is a sexual abuse victim, a Boca Raton child sexual abuse lawyer with Dolman Law Group could help you bring the perpetrator to justice. We will also investigate the case, collect evidence, and represent the victim when filing a lawsuit against the defendant.
Signs of Child Sexual Abuse
When sexual abuse happens, it may be difficult for a child to open up to a parent or guardian. They may feel ashamed, guilty, or embarrassed about what happened. You should look for signs of sexual abuse when they fail to disclose what happened. The following are some signs to watch for in your child or other children you know:
- Behavior changes, like withdrawal syndrome from an 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 Is Liable for Child Sexual Abuse?
In many cases, these crimes could have been prevented if certain parties had acted in a way that would have protected the child. Sometimes, it's possible to bring lawsuits against negligent parties who could have stopped the abuse from happening.
Here are some of the most common liable parties:
- Teachers and staff members at school who failed to report abuse or protect a student from abuse
- The abuser's extended family members
- The abuser's friends
- The abuser's employer if they were in a position of trust with the child or spent a lot of time with them in an unsupervised setting
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 come forward with their stories and how complex these cases are.
A lawyer with our firm can help you determine how long you have to file a lawsuit against the responsible party.
Damages in Child Sexual Abuse Lawsuits
Child sexual abuse lawsuits are designed to compensate victims for damages to 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.
Here's what victims can get as compensation:
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 will prevent future injuries. Nominal damages confirm that a violation occurred and serves a deterrent purpose.
Impairment of the Capacity to Live
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 these damages.
Pain and Suffering
One of the most substantial damages awarded in child sexual abuse cases is pain and suffering, which compensates for the physical and emotional turmoil caused by the incident. This loss can include the 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 compensated through 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 intend to punish defendants for egregious behavior and set an example for other potential offenders.
Why Hire Our Boca Raton Child Sexual Abuse Lawyer?
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 support your case by:
- Collecting and analyzing evidence
- Taking witness statements
- Assessing the full extent of your damages
- 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 team can help you hold the abuser accountable for their actions. Sexual abuse is a severe offense, and every allegation must be examined with the strictest scrutiny to protect the innocence of children.
Call Dolman Law Group Today to Get Started with Your Child Sexual Abuse Case
Like any other legal violation, victims would benefit from pursuing child sexual abuse cases with lawyers by their sides. At Dolman Law Group, our Boca Raton child sexual abuse lawyers have the experience to negotiate a settlement or file a lawsuit on your behalf. We'll strive to get you justice.
Contact us today for a free case review. We don't take any payment unless and until we reach a financial outcome.
Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA
301 Yamato Road, Suite 1240
Boca Raton, Florida 33431
561-220-4963