Sexual abuse and assault have always been a problem but the recent spotlight on these types of crimes has shown just how much of a problem still exists today.
The physical, mental, and emotional effects of sexual abuse and assault are immense and far-reaching. Victims often struggle for months or even years following an assault or continued abuse. In many cases, victims find themselves in need of medical care—including physical treatment, therapy, counseling, medication, etc.—in order to heal. While treatment can be incredibly beneficial, the financial costs can place an unfair and unnecessary burden on victims who are already struggling to move forward with their lives.
At Excolo Law, we offer compassionate and caring legal representation for victims of sexual abuse and assault, as well as their families and loved ones. Many people do not realize that, apart from a criminal action, they can take civil action against the perpetrator or another responsible party. A sexual abuse/assault injury case seeks compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and more.
Sadly, those who are most vulnerable are often the victims of these crimes, including college students, teenagers, children, and others.
Statistics show that most incidents of sexual abuse and assault are perpetrated by someone the victim knows—a family friend, babysitter, coach, teacher, co-worker, or fellow student.
When this is the case, many people (especially children) may not realize that what they have experienced is sexual abuse or assault.
Examples of sexual abuse and assault include:
- Coercing someone to partake in a sexual act
- Using drugs and/or alcohol to sexually assault someone
- Committing sexual acts with someone who cannot consent
- Sexual battery and aggravated sexual assault
- Inappropriate touching of another person’s body
- Indecent exposure/exposure of genitals to a child
- Creating or displaying child pornography
- Any sexual contact with a child’s body
- “Grooming” a child or teenager
In recent years, sexual assault and abuse cases on college campuses have made headlines throughout the United States.
However, colleges are not the only educational facility where sexual assault and abuse take place. All too often, elementary-aged children are the victims of these terrible acts.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the total lifetime care costs for a child victim of sexual abuse and assault can exceed $210,000—not to mention the immense mental and emotional consequences.
We understand how difficult it can be to share your story and the immense bravery it takes to speak out against an attacker or perpetrator of sexual abuse/assault.
Our lawyers can help you navigate the legal process of filing a civil claim against the liable party.
Depending on the circumstances involved in your case, the liable party may include the attacker, your university or college, a youth sports organization, religious institution, or another entity.