Victims of Sexual Abuse Need Legal Protection
No one should have to suffer through sexual abuse, and the victims of these horrible acts need to know their rights and how they can seek justice. In this blog post, we will discuss the basics of filing a sexual abuse lawsuit, what steps should be taken during the legal process, and how to access emotional support as a victim.
Understanding the Basics of a Sexual Abuse Lawsuit
When considering filing a lawsuit for sexual abuse, it is important that you understand the basics. A sexual abuse lawsuit is intended to seek compensation for damages caused by the perpetrator’s actions. The damages can include physical injuries, emotional distress, loss of wages or income, and other economic losses. It may also involve punitive damages intended to punish the perpetrator for their actions.
Identifying the Type of Sexual Abuse
In order for your lawyer to properly assess your case and advise you on how best to proceed with your lawsuit, it is essential that you accurately identify the type of sexual abuse you suffered. This includes identifying whether it was physical or verbal harassment; unwanted touching; coercion or manipulation; rape or assault; stalking; voyeurism; child sex trafficking; or any other form of sexual misconduct. Identifying which type of abuse occurred will help your lawyer build an effective case against the perpetrator.
The Adult Survivors Act in New York
The New York Adult Survivors Act created a one-year lookback window for those who were the victims of sexual abuse but would be prevented from bringing a lawsuit because of the expiration of the statute of limitations. This applies to those who experienced sexual abuse after turning 18, regardless of how long the abuse occurred. The lookback window ends November 23, 2023, so it is important to act quickly. Our attorneys can advise you on how to best proceed and protect your rights.
Note that the normal statute of limitations is 3 years from the date the act occurred. For a minor, the statute of limitations is normally 3 years after the 18th birthday of a victim who was a minor at the time.
Knowing Your Rights
In addition to understanding your legal rights when filing a sexual abuse lawsuit, it is important that you understand your personal rights as well. As a victim of sexual abuse, you have the right to speak out about what happened without fear of retribution from either the abuser or anyone else who may be complicit in covering up their crime.
You also have the right to seek justice through legal action if appropriate. It is important that you understand these rights so that you feel empowered throughout this difficult process.
Steps to Take During the Legal Process
Once you’ve determined that filing a lawsuit is necessary and appropriate in your particular case, there are several steps you can take during the legal process in order to ensure success. First and foremost, it is important that you gather all evidence related to your case so that it can be presented in court if necessary. This includes photos, videos, emails, and text messages–anything pertinent to proving your claim in court can help bolster your argument and strengthen your case against the abuser(s).
It’s also helpful if victims can find an experienced attorney who specializes in cases like yours so they can provide sound advice on how best to proceed with their suit. At Alonso Krangle, we have helped many, many people through abuse. Our caring attorneys are sympathetic and non-judgmental. We are here to support and advocate for you.
Finally, it’s essential that victims understand their state’s statute of limitations for filing such suits so they don’t miss out on their opportunity for justice due to an arbitrary deadline set by lawmakers years ago who couldn’t possibly predict how long someone might take before speaking up about their experiences with sexual abuse today.
Emotional Support for Victims of Sexual Abuse
It’s important for survivors of sexual assault or harassment to get not only legal justice but also emotional support during this tough time in life. There are many resources available online, such as support groups specifically tailored toward helping survivors cope with trauma stemming from their experience(s). Additionally, talking with friends & family (if comfortable) and seeking professional help such as therapy and counseling services can be very beneficial in working through difficult emotions associated with being victimized by another person’s inappropriate behavior toward them.
Organizations like RAINN (Rape Abuse & Incest National Network) offer 24-hour hotlines where individuals can get free confidential help from trained professionals in times of need.
Contact Alonso Krangle Today with Any Questions
No one should ever have go through something as traumatic as sexual abuse alone – which is why victims need guidance on how best to navigate both legal proceedings & getting emotional support throughout this difficult journey. By understanding basic information about filing lawsuits stemming from sex crimes – identifying types of abuse – knowing one’s rights – taking steps during the legal process – and seeking out professional help – survivors will come out stronger than ever before, having found true justice at last.
Together we must fight back against abusers everywhere & make sure everyone gets necessary assistance when needed most. With knowledge comes power – never forget that.
Contact Alonso Krangle today at (800) 403-6191 for a discrete and free consultation.