Experiencing sexual abuse is one traumatic thing to deal with, let alone filing a lawsuit after. Trying to decide if you should move forward with a lawsuit is a personal and emotional decision. A Ludington sexual abuse lawyer can help you understand your options and your likelihood of finding justice.
If you experience such a situation, your voice deserves to be heard. It can be terrifying to make this legal move, but it is a highly important one. You can work with a Ludington personal injury lawyer to take this brave and courageous step.
White Law PLLC has recovered over $1.2 billion in settlements and verdicts for our clients, and are ready to put that experience to work for you.
How to Determine if You Should File a Sexual Assault Lawsuit
If you have been sexually harassed or abused, you may have a case to move forward with a lawsuit. Only you can figure out if you are ready to revisit your assault and prepare a case. It can open the door to a whirlwind of emotions, but it is typically necessary so you can heal and start the next chapter of your life.
You will need solid evidence or testimonies to back up your claim. This could look like a recorded statement from your abuser or even text messages or social media posts. Even if you do not have evidence, you should not lose hope, as your attorney can help you figure out how to move forward without it.
If you can mentally and physically handle a lawsuit, it may be worthwhile so you can potentially seek justice. Many people find empowerment when they move forward with legal action. As long as you are ready, your sexual abuse attorney in Ludington, MI, can help with the rest.
Your Fight Is Our Fight
Sexual Offenses Appear in Several Forms
The term “sexual abuse” can take many forms. However, they all carry the same lasting and devastating effects on survivors. Some forms of sexual offenses are the following:
- Rape
- Incest
- Sexual assault
- Child sexual abuse
- Sexual harassment
Each type of sexual offense has life-changing challenges for survivors. It is essential that no matter the kind you experienced, you know that your story is valid. Healing can be possible with the right legal support and evidence you can bring forward.
We know how to get our clients the results they need in the toughest legal arenas.
What to Know About Inappropriate Use of Power
Someone misusing their power can happen in various ways, leaving you feeling vulnerable and unsure where to turn. Misuse of power usually occurs when a person in a position of authority manipulates, harms, intimidates, or controls others. When that misuse leads to exploitation or sexual abuse, the damage is mentally and emotionally catastrophic.
One of the most challenging parts of power abuse is how the abuse may hide it. A victim may fear loss of opportunities, damage to their reputation, or retaliation. They are valid concerns, but you should never hold back because of this.
If you experience misuse of power, you should work with an attorney to develop a strategic game plan to move forward. Justice can be possible, but you must take the first step. Reaching out to a lawyer can help prevent this person from misusing their power against others in the future.
We know how to get our clients the results they need in the toughest legal arenas.
Be Aware of Physician Sexual Assault
A doctor-patient relationship depends on trust. The patient puts their health and well-being in the hands of their doctor. Sometimes, a doctor can abuse this trust and commit acts of sexual assault and disguise it under medical care.
These can leave you feeling confused and not sure what to do next. Sexual assault can happen when a doctor performs a procedure or exam where they violate your physical boundary, according to MCL – Section 333.16279. It is not uncommon for the patient to feel nervous to speak up about their experience for fear of not being heard.
Michigan has laws put into place to protect you if you experience any type of abuse, including sexual abuse in a medical setting. You deserve to trust your doctor so you can be your healthiest version of yourself. Your attorney can also tell you what you need to know about proving therapist abuse.
You will always work directly with your attorney throughout your case.
Clergy Sexual Abuse Signs
Aside from your doctor’s office, sexual abuse is unfortunately common in churches and other religious organizations. Clergy members you should be able to trust, but they may break that bond when you experience sexual assault in their presence.
Recognizing the signs can help you spot the abuse for yourself and for others, which include:
- Excessive one-on-one interactions
- Inappropriate physical contact
- A pattern of isolating you or someone else from others so they can be alone with you
- Giving special gifts, establishing unusual connections, or sharing secrets
Keep in mind that you can anonymously file a clergy sexual abuse claim for yourself or someone else if you are afraid of taking action. Pay special attention to minors who show changes in their behavior. They may withdraw from you, have anxiety, or feel fearful of continuing to go to religious activities.
What to Do if You Experience Workplace Sexual Assault
If you experience sexual assault in the workplace, it can be highly stressful because you are likely worried about losing your job if you bring up the situation. The first thing you should do is remove yourself from any harmful situation. Next, take the following steps:
- Go to your human resources department or your supervisor if it is safe and explain the situation.
- Keep records of what happened, including any proof like emails, texts, or witness statements.
- Reach out to a sexual abuse lawyer in Ludington, MI, to see what your options may be.
Despite this situation occurring at your workplace, you should never back down. When people turn away and decline to hold their abusers accountable, it makes it easier for the perpetrator to act again. This is why sexual abuse victims should pursue personal injury claims. With strategic legal action, you can have more potential to seek justice.
Let White Law PLLC Help Make Sure Your Voice Is Heard
Dealing with sexual abuse can be difficult, but getting the legal part out of the way as soon as possible can be beneficial in the long run. This way, you can leave as much of it in the past as you can. With the help of a Ludington sexual abuse attorney, you can determine what options are best for your situation.
With our team on your side, you can confidently move forward, knowing we will present your side with respect and sensitivity. We will fight to protect your rights and hold your abuser accountable. Contact us today for a confidential, no-obligation consultation.
We’re Experienced. We Care.
We Exceed Client Expectations.
