Child sexual abuse is one of the most traumatic experiences a child can undergo. Children who have been sexually abused may experience adverse effects for the rest of their lives. If you or someone you know has been sexually abused as a child, it is crucial to seek legal assistance from a Fort Lauderdale child sexual abuse lawyer.
A lawyer will help you understand your rights and legal options for pursuing justice as a victim of child sexual abuse. You can find a path toward healing and recovery.
What Is Child Sexual Abuse?
Child sexual abuse can take many forms, from inappropriate touching to rape. In some cases, the abuser may use force or fear to commit the crime. In other cases, perpetrators may use bribery or extortion. According to report by RAINN, the perpetrator of child sexual abuse is usually an adult who uses their position and power to take advantage of a child.
When children are sexually abused, they may experience physical harm, emotional trauma, or both. In addition, they may be ashamed or fearful of retaliation from the abuser. Oftentimes, a sexual abuse survivor may stay silent about their abuse.
If you suspect that your child suffered from sexual abuse at a school, daycare center, or other childcare facility, you should contact a lawyer as soon as possible to discuss the details of your case.
Signs of Child Sexual Abuse
Child sexual abuse can have many consequences that may continue after the abuse has stopped. It is essential to know these symptoms so that you can find help for your child and prevent further abuse.
Some of the common signs of sexual abuse in children include:
- Changes in mood or behavior during the time of the abuse
- Changes in sleeping or eating habits
- Showing sudden fear of specific people or places
- Displaying age-inappropriate sexual behavior
- Talking about a new, older friend
- Self-harm
The Effects of Child Sexual Abuse
Unfortunately, the effects of child sexual abuse are long-lasting and devastating. Sexual abuse affects children emotionally and can cause physiological or psychological issues. Although some of these effects may not manifest immediately, they may appear later and last longer.
When a child is sexually abused, it can be a harrowing and traumatic experience. Usually, victims do not know where to turn for help. Instead, they might feel ashamed or guilty about what happened.
Sexual abuse has a significant effect on how victims see themselves, others, and the world. The damage caused by sexual abuse can include:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Inability to form healthy relationships with others
- Difficulty making friends or establishing social connections
- Depression or anger
- Anxiety
- Trust issues
- Self-blame or self-esteem issues
- Shame or guilt
Compensation in a Child Sexual Abuse Claim
Victims of child sexual abuse have the right to seek compensation for their losses. If the abuse causes severe psychological and physical child injuries, or if you're now unable to work due to a disability caused by the incident, the compensation you receive could be life-saving.
Some of the types of damages a lawyer can help you recover include:
- Medical Bills: Many victims of child sexual abuse also suffer from PTSD, depression, and other mental health issues that require professional care. Even if you do not have health insurance, your lawyer could help you recover your medical costs.
- Pain and Suffering: No amount of money can make up for what a child sexual abuse victim went through. However, your lawyer can seek damages for the physical and emotional pain that resulted from the abuse.
- Loss of Consortium: Child sexual abuse affects entire families and has long-term consequences on a person's ability to develop healthy relationships with others.
These are just some of the damages that a child sexual abuse victim's claim can cover. You may be entitled to more compensation for your child's medical bills and other damages caused by the crime. If you or a loved one experienced child sexual abuse, a lawyer could help you determine what compensation is proper for you and pursue the claim on your behalf.
Why Hire Our Fort Lauderdale Child Sexual Abuse Lawyer?
Being a victim of child sexual abuse is a traumatic experience that can take years to overcome. Not only are you dealing with the physical, emotional, and psychological trauma of the abuse, but you may also be facing difficulties in school or at work. Your family relationships may be strained, and you may feel alone and confused as you figure out how to move forward with your life.
Our Fort Lauderdale child sexual abuse lawyer could help you find justice for what happened to you. Although no money will ever erase what happened to you, the compensation can help ease some of your burdens. With the help of your attorney, you could recover all your damages, bring the perpetrator to justice, and start the journey to recovery. Managing the claim or lawsuit without legal counsel may drastically lower the chances of the perpetrator facing legal action to pay for their crimes.
At the Dolman Law Group, we're committed to seeking justice for our clients, including those affected by clergy sexual abuse. We will help you file a claim against every liable party and seek maximum compensation.
Let Us Help with Your Claim Today
The Dolman Law Group has experience handling cases of sexual abuse against children. We believe that children who have been sexually abused need someone to defend them and ensure that they get the closure they deserve. We know how to gather evidence and prove your case in court.
Call us today to schedule a free consultation. We will handle your case with the utmost professionalism and confidentiality.
Fort Lauderdale Office
150 E Davie Blvd Suite 201-2
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
Phone: (754) 208-1130