Facing the aftermath of sexual abuse and assault can be a long road to recovery. That road may feel much longer if you are taking it alone. Fortunately, you do not have to tackle your criminal, civil, or personal recovery without help.
Detroit, MI, is home to many sexual abuse support groups and resources that you can use or join to help you through this difficult time. These support groups cover options for people from all walks of life so that you have the resources and personal support for your specific situation. You may also have legal resources, so you can seek justice when you have been hurt.
If you are facing a legal battle, reach out for help from sexual abuse support groups & resources in Detroit, MI. The emotional support you need may be available. You can also get the legal support you need through a Michigan sexual abuse lawyer at White Law PLLC.
Identifying Sexual Abuse
First, what is sexual abuse? Identifying sexual abuse is key to protecting yourself or your child from predatory behavior. Legally, Michigan defines sexual abuse as unwanted sexual contact, meaning the victim did not or cannot consent.
Unfortunately, sexual abuse often involves those you or your child are close to. Family members or family friends, church members, and even school faculty are some of the most common perpetrators of abuse. If you believe they are engaging in abuse, reach out for help.
If you have a child, they may be afraid to speak out about abuse, so it is crucial to watch out for certain signs. These include unusual or new fears, new aversion to touch, or changes in sleep or hygiene habits. While none of these alone indicate your child is being sexually abused, they can help spot a pattern that can indicate a serious issue.
Your Fight Is Our Fight
Support Groups and Resources for Victims of Sexual Abuse
When you have suffered sexual abuse, having support from others can help you recover from the suffering you have experienced. A group setting can help provide certain resources for recovery as well as a safe place to speak about this difficult experience. Community can help you grapple with and overcome the suffering you have experienced.
Michigan’s state government site offers specific resources and guidance to those who have suffered sexual abuse and assault. These resources can help you take action, protect your legal rights, and find the right support you need. When you are hurt and suffering, this page can provide the initial guidance you need.
Other resources may be available for all people. These include support for families, and many offer additional resources to support members of the community who may not speak English or may have a different cultural background. Regardless of your background, you may have options for emotional and legal support.
Support for People of Color Suffering Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse and assault groups can provide support for people from all walks of life and socio-economic backgrounds. This includes support groups with resources for people of color. Below are just a few support groups in Michigan for people of color:
- Asian Women United of Minnesota (AWUM)
- Mai Family Services- Michigan Asian Indian Family Center (MAIFS)
- Sexual Assault Services for Holistic Healing and Awareness (SASHA)
- Centro Multicultural La Famila
- Incite! Women of Color Against Violence
Resources for LGBTQ Victims of Sexual Abuse
While sexual abuse, assault, and violence can impact anyone, members of the LGBTQ community are often impacted at higher rates. Support groups can provide a safe, judgment-free zone for LGBTQ victims of sexual abuse to help people recover and thrive. If you are seeking out resources for members of the LGBTQ community, the following support groups may have the resources you need:
Legal Opportunities for Sex Abuse Victims
While a support group can be a key opportunity for you to grapple with the suffering you experienced, you may also want to seek out legal options to recover from the sexual abuse you of suffered. You may have grounds for a lawsuit or be able to press charges if you are still within the time limits for a case. Michigan has recently extended its time limits, so talk to your lawyer about whether you are within these limits.
You may also need to ensure you have grounds for a lawsuit. To file, you will need to identify the at-fault party. You will also need to prove that their actions led to your injuries.
If you are unsure whether you have grounds for a lawsuit for sexual abuse, reach out to our legal team. Our lawyers can review the details of your situation and determine whether you have grounds for action. Getting a second opinion about your sexual abuse lawsuit can help you choose the best path forward.
Criminal vs. Civil Legal Action
When you have suffered sexual abuse, remember that the legal system’s criminal and civil branches are different. That means you may have two cases ahead of you if you sue or press charges. The criminal court is meant to punish the wrongdoer but not to compensate you for your suffering, while the civil court offers the opposite.
You may not have as many options depending on the length of time since the abuse. For example, your statute of limitations may have already run out for a criminal case. However, you may still have grounds to sue the at-fault party for the suffering you experienced. An attorney can help you determine your best options before you take action.
Your attorney also has the tools to help you in the courtroom. Your lawyer can represent you throughout the case. That way, you can focus on your health and well-being, not the law.
Steps You Can Take for Legal Action After Sexual Abuse
Following the suffering of sexual abuse, one of the first steps you can take is to seek medical attention. Seeking medical attention now can help you gather evidence and prevent further damage to your physical health. After that, you may be ready to speak with an attorney and the police about the suffering you have experienced.
Speaking with an attorney can make a big difference in your claim. If you have been hurt, speak with a lawyer about your damages. You may be able to seek compensation for this suffering.
Your attorney can guide you through the legal process, including gathering evidence and filing your claim. Your attorney can also represent you in court, which can be vital to protecting your mental health. It can also give you time to focus on your recovery, rather than focusing on exactly what you need to say before the judge.
We understand that you may be going through a difficult situation and we are ready to help however we can.
We Are Here to Help Sexual Abuse Victims
If you have suffered sexual abuse, you do not have to face this situation alone. Sexual abuse is an unfortunately common experience, and many people have created support groups in Michigan and beyond to help those who suffered sexual abuse recover emotionally from this devastating experience. Gathering with people who have been through a similar experience can make a difference.
At White Law PLLC, we are here to help you handle the legal side of your sexual abuse recovery so that you have more time to focus on finding the right sexual abuse support group and resources. These tools can help you face the difficult situation you have experienced. Our team is here to make this process as easy as possible.
If you are ready to get the support you need for the legal side of your case, we offer free consultations. Call or fill out our online contact form to learn more. When you do, you can get case-specific answers about your next steps.
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