As an expert in the field of sexual abuse and assault, I have seen firsthand the devastating impact these crimes can have on victims and their families. It is a violation of one's basic human rights and can leave lasting physical, emotional, and psychological scars. That is why it is crucial for victims to know that they have the right to seek justice and compensation through civil court with the help of a sexual abuse lawyer. The civil justice system is not focused on determining the guilt or innocence of an offender, but rather on holding them accountable for the harm they have caused. This means that if a perpetrator is found responsible in civil court, they may be ordered to pay the victim or their family a certain amount of money as compensation for their injuries. The amount of compensation awarded in a civil court case will vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case.
Unfortunately, sexual abuse and assault can occur in various settings, including institutions where individuals may be particularly vulnerable. This includes cases involving clergy members, teachers, coaches, or other authority figures. If you are a survivor of sexual abuse or assault, you may be familiar with the criminal justice system and the option to report your case to the authorities. However, it is important to note that pursuing a criminal case does not preclude you from also seeking justice through civil court. In fact, only 12 percent of sexual abuse cases are reported to authorities, and 90 percent of sexual assaults on college campuses go unreported. It is also worth mentioning that many cases of sexual abuse within institutions go unreported due to cover-ups by those in positions of power.
This was highlighted in a recent report that did not include cases involving church leaders who transferred priests to other locations or allowed them to continue working despite accusations of abuse against them. While financial compensation cannot undo the damage caused by sexual abuse, it can help victims and their families cope with the lifelong consequences. This includes seeking compensation for mental and emotional pain and suffering, as well as any medical expenses or lost wages. One example of seeking justice through civil court is the case of two men who filed a sexual abuse lawsuit against the Boy Scouts and the Montana Boy Scout Council. They claim to have been abused by scout leaders and are seeking damages for the harm they have suffered. When determining the outcome of a civil lawsuit for sexual abuse, the court will consider the preponderance of evidence presented. This means that if it is more likely than not that the abuse occurred, the perpetrator may be found responsible and ordered to pay damages. As an expert in this field, I have seen firsthand the importance of having a skilled and experienced sexual abuse lawyer on your side.
At The Law Offices of Michael S., we are dedicated to fighting for justice on behalf of victims of sexual abuse and assault. It is also important to note that sexual abuse can occur in various settings, including sports organizations. This includes youth sports teams, athletic clubs, or even professional sports teams. In these cases, it is crucial to have a lawyer who is well-versed in civil liability law and has experience handling sexual abuse cases. If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse or assault, do not hesitate to seek legal help. The attorneys at Meirowitz & Wasserberg, LLP are aggressive in filing lawsuits on behalf of victims and will fight tirelessly for justice and compensation.
