Sexual abuse is a crime to be fought in criminal and civil court. It has taken society at large and the justice system way too long to believe victims, recognize the heinousness of these crimes and deliver opportunities for justice.
Only in recent decades have victims finally started to have their voices heard. White Law PLLC is listening, and a Battle Creek personal injury lawyer from our team is here to amplify those voices and help lead the fight for justice.
National and local media coverage of our firm emphasizes our dedication to providing superior representation to our clients. If you, your child, or someone else you love has been the victim of sexual abuse, connect with a Battle Creek sexual abuse lawyer from White Law PLLC right away. We will stand with you, fight for you, and protect and support you as we take your case through the legal process.
Effects of Sexual Abuse
Victims of sexual abuse can experience its effects in all areas of life. The consequences have a high probability of lasting for years to come. The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) details the possible trauma abusers inflict on victims.
Physical Effects
Victims can sustain physical injuries in the course of their abuse, including damage to their genital areas and reproductive systems. They may contract sexually transmitted diseases, which can cause permanent damage, especially if left untreated, and of course, some victims can become pregnant.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), victims of abuse are susceptible to chronic gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and sexual problems.
Emotional and Psychological Effects
Sexual abuse is an act of betrayal and, sadly, one often committed by a person known to the victim. RAINN statistics on perpetrators of sexual violence show 8 of 10 rapes are committed by someone the victim knows. In 93% of juvenile sexual abuse cases, the victim knew their abuser either as a family member or acquaintance.
When a person you know and trust–at least to some degree–betrays that trust, it can be hard to trust anyone ever again. Abuse victims often find it difficult to form or maintain meaningful relationships. They are also at high risk for depression and anxiety.
It is not uncommon for abuse victims to self-harm or consider suicide. They may have panic attacks and develop eating or sleep disorders. In some cases, they become dependent on alcohol or drugs to cope with their trauma.
Financial Effects
For some victims, the ability to find employment or reach full earning potential is stolen by the abuser. Trauma can prevent victims from finishing school, finding employment, or performing well at work, and may require them to take time away from work to address their mental health.
The CDC recognizes these issues as disrupting earning power and having a “Long-term effect on the economic well-being of survivors and their families.”
Comprehensive consequences demand substantial justice. Victims can count on a sexual abuse lawyer in Battle Creek, MI, to fight for that justice. When victims partner with White Law PLLC, they secure powerful, experienced legal representation from a compassionate advocate.
Your Fight Is Our Fight
Legal Options for Victims of Sexual Abuse
Understanding the legal options for survivors of sexual abuse in Michigan can help with the healing process. Sexual abuse victims have opportunities for justice, both through the criminal and civil courts. Reporting the abuse to law enforcement will prompt an investigation that could lead to criminal charges and penalties for the abuser.
Victims can pursue a more personal form of justice through the civil courts. Our team will examine your situation and work to compile evidence to prove the at-fault party’s abuse and the value of your losses. Evidence may come from witnesses, other victims, communication from or with the abuser, your medical records, and a variety of other sources.
After assessing your losses, your attorney will send a demand for financial compensation to the at-fault party’s representatives. Usually, the other side will return with a lower offer, and your sexual abuse attorney in Battle Creek, MI, will continue negotiating until the sides reach an agreed-upon amount.
If your abuser’s representatives do not offer true financial justice or intentionally compromise the negotiation process, you may decide (with guidance from your attorney) to fight for justice in court.
We’re not just lawyers. We’re passionate advocates who will ensure that your voice is heard and your rights are protected.
Compensation Our Battle Creek Sexual Abuse Lawyers Seek
Whether through negotiations or in the courtroom, your sexual abuse attorney in Battle Creek will fight for maximum compensation. White Law PLLC has secured over $1.4 billion in collective sexual abuse settlements. We are prepared to battle for every dollar you deserve.
Compensation available to sexual abuse victims often includes:
- Related medical expenses
- Costs for counseling
- Income recovery for wages lost during treatment
- Value of lost potential or opportunities
- Acknowledgement for suffering and reduced enjoyment of life
Factors determining compensation vary from case to case, making it impossible to suggest an average settlement or trial verdict amount. You can trust your attorney to assess the value of your losses with tremendous care.
We will take every detail of your abuse and its consequences into account and work to secure the highest amount of damages you can collect in a sex abuse case.
We understand that you may be going through a difficult situation and we are ready to help however we can.
Types of Sexual Abuse Cases
Tragically, sexual abuse can happen in any environment. Children and spouses can experience abuse in the home. Students can be hurt in schools. Employees can be victimized at work, and therapists can abuse clients.
Daycares and camps have seen their share of sexual abuse incidents. Young adults on college campuses face risk. Not even places of worship are immune to the horrors of sexual abuse.
It can be hard to know what to do if you suspect sexual abuse. But a sexual abuse lawyer in Battle Creek, MI, can help. White Law PLLC has handled all kinds of sexual abuse cases and will guide you through important decisions and manage all legalities as you seek justice and healing.
You will always work directly with your attorney throughout your case.
You Deserve Justice
Sexual abusers deserve to be held accountable for their disgraceful actions. And victims deserve justice for their suffering.
White Law PLLC can help on both counts. Your experience matters, and you matter to us. To prove it, we will put the full strength of our knowledge, experience, and resources into the fight to get you justice.
We’re Experienced. We Care.
We Exceed Client Expectations.
