Sexual abuse is inexcusable. If you are a victim of sexual abuse, it may be best to consult with a Grand Rapids personal injury lawyer. This gives you the opportunity to discuss your case with a Grand Rapids sexual abuse lawyer and determine how to protect yourself and others from further harm.
The legal team at White Law PLLC does not tolerate abuse in any form. We have helped our clients secure over $1.4 billion in damages and hold those responsible for abuse accountable for their actions. Contact us today to discuss your case with us.
Sexual Abuse Definition
According to Psychology Today, sexual abuse refers to any sex activity that takes place without someone’s consent. It may include rape, unwanted touching, and other harmful acts. The consequences of this type of abuse may affect a person for the rest of their life.
If you or someone you know is dealing with abuse, report the issue to law enforcement. You can do so by calling 911, notifying the police, or going to a hospital. Along with this, you may want to contact a sexual abuse lawyer in Grand Rapids, MI who can explain your legal options to you.
No one under any circumstance should have to face abuse. At White Law PLLC, our attorney can help you figure out the next steps to take against your abuser. For more information, reach out to us.
Your Fight Is Our Fight
Types of Sexual Abuse
Abuse comes in many forms. You may be the victim of sexual abuse without realizing it is happening. Forms of sex abuse include:
- Physical: Consists of touching, kissing, and other sexual acts performed on someone against their will.
- Verbal: Exposes someone to explicit spoken or written sexual content.
- Visual: May involve sexting, exhibitionism, and other acts that expose an individual to sexually explicit visuals.
A sexual abuse attorney in Grand Rapids, MI can help you put an end to these harmful acts and many others. Your lawyer can answer frequently asked questions regarding abuse and the legal actions you can take against someone who is hurting you or someone you know. They may also help you identify your abuser and pursue damages from them.
We know how to get our clients the results they need in the toughest legal arenas.
Who Is Responsible for Sexual Abuse
It may be an individual or group of people who are responsible for abuse. In cases of clergy abuse, a case may be brought against multiple members. A Grand Rapids clergy sex abuse lawyer can discuss your case and the potentially liable parties to be held accountable.
A Grand Rapids sexual abuse attorney understands the challenges that come with discussing the harm you or someone you know has suffered. They are patient and empathetic and want to work with you to hold a liable party accountable. In order to do so, they may ask you questions so they can gather information about your abuse and identify the at-fault party.
You may partner with a sex abuse attorney who is part of a legal team that has expertise relating to the harm you have incurred. Throughout your litigation, your attorney will advocate for you and protect your legal rights and best interests. They will do everything within their power to make sure that you and no one else ever have to deal with abuse again.
We know how to get our clients the results they need in the toughest legal arenas.
When to File a Sexual Abuse Claim
Per Michigan Compiled Laws (MCL) §600.5805, you may have up to 10 years to file a civil suit against anyone responsible for sexual abuse. In a case involving child sex abuse, the victim may have until they are 28 years old to pursue damages from a liable party. You may ask for economic and non-economic damages as part of your case.
A judge or jury may award economic compensation for current and future medical bills, lost wages, and other quantifiable losses. You may receive non-economic compensation based on suffering, pain, and other subjective harms. A sexual abuse lawyer in Grand Rapids can help you calculate your damages.
There are many legal options for survivors of sexual abuse in Michigan. When you have an experienced sexual abuse attorney in Grand Rapids at your side, you can explore all of the legal options at your disposal. Your lawyer can help you weigh the pros and cons of different options so you can make an informed decision on what to do next.
You will always work directly with your attorney throughout your case.
How a Sexual Abuse Claim Works
There may be one or more parties involved in your case. You are responsible for proving any liable parties are responsible for your abuse. To prove fault, you may need a preponderance of evidence. You may use digital and physical proof to support your case.
Digital evidence may include text messages, phone logs, and other information stored on an electronic device. Your lawyer may help you collect and review digital proof. They can help you present your evidence to a judge or jury.
You may use DNA, blood, and other physical evidence in your argument. Physical proof may be used in conjunction with digital evidence. Together, both forms of proof may help you validate your claims and receive a fair settlement offer.
Sexual Abuse Case Settlement
A Grand Rapids therapist abuse lawyer may help you evaluate a settlement proposal. You may receive a settlement offer at any point during your litigation. If you approve the offer, you may close your case without having to go to trial.
It may be tempting to accept a settlement. However, you may get an offer that is well short of the damages you are requesting. Your lawyer can help you determine if you should approve a proposal or continue with your litigation.
You have the final say on what to do with a settlement. If you are not fully satisfied with an offer, you can decline it without incurring any penalties. From here, you and your Grand Rapids sexual abuse lawyer can continue to look for ways to strengthen your case.
Let a Grand Rapids Sexual Abuse Lawyer Help You with Your Claim Today
Sexual abuse is a serious problem, and you do not have to face this issue on your own. At White Law PLLC, we offer legal services and support to sex abuse victims. To schedule a free case consultation, contact us today.
We’re Experienced. We Care.
We Exceed Client Expectations.
