If you or someone you love has been victimized by sexual abuse, you may be terrified, overwhelmed, and unsure of what to do next. While you may get law enforcement officials involved, there are also other opportunities for justice and legal recourse. Trust in a powerful Detroit sexual abuse lawyer from White Law PLLC who will utilize every resource to make your abuser and other at-fault parties pay.
Although you may be reluctant to move forward with a civil claim, this is your opportunity to empower yourself and begin to rebuild your life after enduring such a traumatic experience. A compassionate Detroit personal injury lawyer from our firm will work tirelessly to build the strongest case possible against the at-fault party. Contact our legal team to schedule a 100% free consultation today and learn more about the steps you will need to take to hold the liable party accountable to the fullest extent of the law.
Sexual Abuse Is a Serious Cause for Concern in Detroit
No one ever thinks sexual abuse or assault will happen to them. However, it is a serious issue across Detroit and the entire state of Michigan. According to the University of Michigan’s Division of Public Safety and Security’s 2023 Security and Fire Safety Report, there were 57 rape accusations, 29 non-rape sex offenses, and 145 sexual assault allegations on campus in 2022 alone.
Keep in mind that not everyone who is victimized by sexual abuse will be willing to report their attacks to the police. They may feel embarrassed or ashamed to tell their stories or have concerns that they will not be taken seriously. This means the actual number of sexual abuse instances is likely higher than the data shows.
According to Charlie Health, across the United States, there are 433,000 sexual abuse cases reported annually. Over 247,000 of these reports involve children, according to the National Children’s Alliance. Your dedicated sexual abuse attorney in Detroit with White Law PLLC is here to help you heal and demand justice from not only your abuser but also those who failed to prevent the abuse.
Your Fight Is Our Fight
We Handle Most Types of Sexual Abuse Claims
One of the reasons there are so many instances of sexual abuse is that abusers will commit these acts in virtually any setting. For example, many of our clients have reported abuse in church settings, schools, summer camps, and even counseling or therapy sessions. Your sexual abuse lawyer in Detroit should have experience handling most types of sexual abuse claims.
White Law PLLC advocated for the abuse victims in the globally recognized Larry Nassar gymnastics sexual abuse lawsuit. We successfully recovered $500 million in damages. These young women are forever changed by the trauma of their experience but did everything possible to ensure their abuser was brought to justice.
We know how to get our clients the results they need in the toughest legal arenas.
Demand Restitution for Every Loss After Sexual Abuse
Demanding a sizable settlement from your abuser and those who allow the abuse to continue is one of the most common ways for victims to take justice into their own hands. You may not have much say in whether criminal charges are filed or how the district attorney handles your case. However, when you work with a Detroit sexual abuse attorney to file a civil claim, you are in control and have the power to make sure your voice is heard.
You have the right to be awarded compensation for a wide variety of economic and non-economic damages, collectively referred to as compensatory damages. Not only can you be compensated for your emotional distress, pain and suffering, but you may also be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, treatment, relocation costs, loss of income, and other damages.
In sexual abuse lawsuits, punitive damages may apply. They are not awarded in every personal injury case. But punitive damages can be issued if the defendant’s conduct is deemed egregious, malicious, or grossly negligent per MCL §445.911.
We understand that you may be going through a difficult situation and we are ready to help however we can.
Detroit Sexual Abuse FAQ
How Long Do I Have to File a Sexual Abuse Lawsuit in Detroit?
According to MCL §600.5805, adult sexual abuse survivors generally have up to 10 years from the incident date to file a personal injury lawsuit in civil court. With help from your sexual abuse lawyer in Detroit, you can get your claim filed before the statute of limitations expires, at which point you may lose your opportunity to take action. Keep in mind that the statute of limitations for sexual abuse claims involving children may not expire until the child reaches the age of 28.
What Is the Burden of Proof in Sexual Abuse Lawsuits?
The burden of proof in sexual abuse lawsuits is much different than the burden of proof in criminal court. The attorney needs to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, according to the Committee on Model Criminal Jury Instructions in a criminal case. In your sexual abuse lawsuit, we must prove liability based on a preponderance of the evidence according to Michigan Rules of Evidence.
The evidence presented must be clear and convincing. We must show that the defendant, more likely than not, sexually abused you or is responsible for the sexual abuse you suffered for your claim to be successful. Forensic analysis, witness statements, and other valuable
evidence can help support your case.
How Can I Hold My Abuser Accountable?
There are several potential ways you can hold your abuser accountable. Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may have the option of securing a settlement outside of court. However, if the liable party does not have insurance coverage or is unwilling to settle your case without a trial, we will be prepared to present your case before a judge and jury.
You will always work directly with your attorney throughout your case.
Turn to a Compassionate Sexual Abuse Lawyer in Detroit for Support Today
While filing a personal injury lawsuit may be the furthest thing from your mind after everything you have been through, your abuser and anyone who facilitated or failed to prevent the abuse you suffered should be brought to justice. The criminal justice system can only do so much. When you file a civil claim, you have an opportunity to have your voice heard and recover maximum compensation for the trauma of your experience.
Do not let your abuser get away with it. Work with a dedicated Detroit sexual abuse attorney from White Law PLLC and help prevent future instances of sexual abuse, rape, and misconduct. Learn more about what your next steps should be when you fill out our convenient contact form or call our office to schedule your free consultation as soon as today.
We’re Experienced. We Care.
We Exceed Client Expectations.
