No one should suffer the consequences of sexual abuse. If you are a victim, it may be best to seek legal help from a Shelby Township sexual abuse lawyer. Together, you and your Shelby Township personal injury lawyer may take legal action against your abuser.
At White Law PLLC, we fight for the victims of sex abuse. Our team has secured over $1.4 billion in damages for our clients and is committed to helping you get compensation in your personal injury case. To learn more, reach out to us.
Sexual Abuse Definition
According to Psychology Today, sexual abuse involves any type of sex activity that happens without someone’s consent. Examples of this type of abuse include rape and unwanted sexual touching. The abuse ranges in terms of severity and can have long-lasting effects on a victim.
Nationally, 81% of women and 43% of men reported sexual harassment and/or assault in their lifetime, the National Sexual Violence Research Center (NSVRC) indicates. Sex abuse victims may suffer physical and psychological trauma. It is often incredibly difficult to report the abuse due to concerns about retaliation from the person responsible for it.
You are not alone as you try to cope with the aftermath of sexual abuse, and the team at White Law PLLC is here for you. Our sexual abuse lawyer in Shelby Township, MI, can review your case and go over your legal options with you. Contact us today.
Your Fight Is Our Fight
How to Report Sex Abuse
It may be emotionally and psychologically draining to think about notifying the authorities about sexual abuse. Yet, reporting to law enforcement may be beneficial now and in the future. The authorities can help you deal with emotional and physical pain and take steps to protect you and others from further abuse from a perpetrator.
An American is sexually sexually every 68 seconds, the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) reports. You may be scared or worried about what will happen if you report your abuse. A sexual abuse attorney in Shelby Township, MI, can help you during this extremely challenging time.
Your lawyer can offer legal recommendations and guidance as you take legal action against your perpetrator. They can help you share your story with the authorities and provide you with plenty of support. Your attorney can also work with you to request damages, which may allow you to enact some level of justice.
We’re not just lawyers. We’re passionate advocates who will ensure that your voice is heard and your rights are protected.
How Much Time You Have to File a Sex Abuse Claim
There are legal options for survivors of sexual abuse in Michigan. You have up to 10 years to file a civil lawsuit. If a child is sexually abused, they may have 10 years from the date they turn 18 to submit a claim.
A Shelby Township sexual abuse attorney can evaluate your case and help you request damages before the window in which you are allowed to do so expires. They understand just how difficult it can be to recount the events relating to your abuse. Throughout the legal process, your lawyer shows compassion and empathy, helping you every step of the way.
Your lawyer will advocate for you and protect your legal rights. In addition, they can address your legal concerns and questions. That way, you will be able to make informed decisions at each stage of the legal process.
We understand that you may be going through a difficult situation and we are ready to help however we can.
How Much a Sexual Abuse Claim Is Worth
When you work with a Shelby Township clergy sex abuse lawyer, you may request economic and non-economic damages. Your lawyer may encourage you to pursue both types of compensation. Reasons why a judge or jury may award damages include:
- Emotional trauma
- Medical expenses
- Suffering
A sexual abuse attorney in Shelby Township will give your case the attention it deserves. They can help you calculate your losses and determine how much money you should request. Next, they can work with you to prepare an argument designed to compel a judge or jury to rule in your favor.
You will always work directly with your attorney throughout your case.
Who Is Responsible for Sex Abuse
You may believe that a single person is responsible for your abuse. This may be the case, but there may also be times when other parties are at fault. Parties who may be liable for sexual abuse include:
- Church
- Daycare
- School
A sexual abuse lawyer in Shelby Township will review the facts surrounding your abuse and identify any liable parties. They can help you hold these parties responsible for their negligence. With your lawyer’s assistance, you may be well-equipped to get case results that meet or exceed your expectations.
Sex Abuse Case Evidence
You may present a wealth of evidence to support your case. Digital and forensic proof may be used in your argument. Examples of evidence used in sex abuse lawsuits include:
- DNA
- Emails, social media posts, text messages, and other digital communications
- Medical records
Your lawyer can answer frequently asked questions about evidence and other legal topics. They want to work with you and ensure that you receive plenty of support throughout your litigation. Your attorney may negotiate with the defendant in the case in the hopes of getting you a fair and reasonable settlement.
Sexual Abuse Case Settlement
You may have concerns about how long a personal injury lawsuit takes in Michigan. Over the course of your litigation, you may have opportunities to settle before you bring your case to trial. If you approve a settlement, you may get a fraction of the damages you initially requested.
The defendant in your case may propose a settlement, and your lawyer will let you know if they do. It may be tough to accept a settlement since you want to pursue justice against your perpetrator. Remember, you do not have to approve a settlement proposal, and you have the option to share any concerns or questions you have about it with your lawyer.
Your lawyer wants you to make a decision regarding a settlement that brings you comfort and peace. If a settlement is not what you want, you do not have to agree to it. In this situation, keep working with your lawyer, and they can help you bring your case to trial.
Partner with a Shelby Township Sexual Abuse Lawyer
You do not have to let someone get away with sexual abuse. At White Law PLLC, we may help you file a civil claim against your abuser and take a step forward in your quest to get justice. To schedule a free case consultation, contact us today.
We’re Experienced. We Care.
We Exceed Client Expectations.
