If you are a survivor of sexual abuse, a Dearborn personal injury lawyer at White Law PLLC will guide you through the legal process during this difficult time. A Dearborn sexual abuse lawyer will ensure that you receive the best care while pursuing a claim against your offender. Our full-service team makes you our highest priority.
Statistics of Sexual Abuse in Michigan
One person is sexually assaulted every 68 seconds in the United States, according to the Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network (RAINN). Sexual abuse affects a large portion of the American population, as evidenced by this staggering number. The impacts of such trauma on victims are long-lasting and life-altering.
According to the World Population Review, Michigan ranks as the fourth highest state for rape cases in the United States. In the most recent report, Michigan experienced a total of 7,235 cases of rape, which is 72.4 rapes per 100,000 people. Despite a downward trend across the state, these rates have continued to rise in places like Detroit and the University of Michigan.
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Where Sexual Assaults Are Most Likely to Occur in Dearborn
When examining the scope of the problem, the data shows that the majority of sexual assault cases are 55% most likely to occur near the survivor’s home, followed by other locations such as a public place, the home of a relative, enclosed public spaces like a parking garage, or school property. Prior to these assaults, survivors were most likely sleeping, traveling to or at school, at work, doing errands, or performing ordinary tasks around the home. If you were attacked while you were going about your business, reach out to a sexual abuse attorney in Dearborn, Michigan, to help with your case and seek compensation.
We’re not just lawyers. We’re passionate advocates who will ensure that your voice is heard and your rights are protected.
Who Is Most at Risk for Sexual Abuse
Women and girls are most susceptible to becoming victims of sexual violence. One in every six women have been victims of rape, with 82% of young rape victims and 90% of adult rape victims being female. One in 10 men has been a rape victim, and male college students are five times more likely to experience sexual violence than their non-college counterparts.
Additionally, there are several other groups who are at high risk of experiencing sexual abuse. Young people ages 12-34 are at the highest risk of experiencing sexual violence. Other groups at risk include:
- Transgender students
- Native Americans
- Prisoners
- Military
We understand that you may be going through a difficult situation and we are ready to help however we can.
Types of Sexual Abuse
There are many types of sexual abuse and many different groups to which it happens. These violations are most likely to occur when there is a significant imbalance of power in the relationship. Some common types of sexual violence include:
- Child sexual abuse
- Military sexual abuse
- Intimate partner sexual abuse
- Sexual abuse by multiple people
- Sexual abuse of people with disabilities
- Sexual abuse by medical professionals
- Drug-related sexual abuse
- Incest
- Exploitation
- Elder abuse
- Clergy abuse
- Prisoner rape
If you find yourself in one of these groups, a Dearborn sexual abuse lawyer can help you seek restitution for what you have experienced. Each type of sexual violence has a different set of circumstances, and our experienced team will navigate the complexities of each type and build a case around your specific situation. You will receive personalized attention at every step.
You will always work directly with your attorney throughout your case.
Legal Proceedings in a Sexual Abuse Case
While it is very difficult to talk about, reporting any instance of sexual abuse is an important and pivotal step toward seeking justice. A sexual abuse attorney in Dearborn will be by your side to guide you through what may feel like a daunting process and make sure your voice is heard. Your lawyer will answer all your questions, prepare a strong case for you, and guide you through the sexual assault legal process.
Your lawyer will begin by gathering evidence in the form of statements, samples, documentation of the scene, and any other information relevant to the incident. To further establish your case and support your account of the events, interviews will be conducted in a safe environment to better understand the nature of the relationship and the event. Your lawyer will protect and advocate for your rights throughout the process.
Additionally, there are a variety of legal options for survivors of sexual abuse in Michigan. You can file a police report, press for criminal charges, and hire a sexual abuse lawyer in Dearborn to file a lawsuit against your attacker. Pursuing action sooner rather than later is recommended for both the strength of your case and for staying within the statute of limitations for making a claim.
Your Rights as a Sexual Assault Victim
According to Michigan’s Sexual Assault Victim’s Access to Justice Act, as a survivor of sexual abuse, you have the right to information regarding your case and evidence. While law enforcement does not have to provide information without an inquiry, you must be provided with information if you make a request. Within 72 hours of the event, you have the right to:
- Receive contact information for a sexual assault services program within the community.
- Receive notice that a sexual assault evidence kit can be administered at no cost to you.
- Receive notice that a sexual assault evidence kit can be administered without having to participate or cooperate with law enforcement or the criminal justice system.
- Receive notice of the right to request information and status about the investigation, evidence, and testing results.
- Receive notice of the right to request personal protection
Hire a Sexual Abuse Lawyer in Dearborn, Michigan to Fight for You
Sexual abuse is a traumatic experience that can leave you feeling unsafe and questioning whether or not to seek legal assistance. At White Law PLLC, our team of experienced lawyers provides you with compassionate service from start to finish. We work to provide you with peace of mind about your case so you can focus on healing and recovery.
Contact a Dearborn sexual abuse lawyer today for a consultation and learn how we can best serve you.
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