Sexual abuse is a uniquely destructive crime that can leave survivors with deep physical and psychological suffering. Even more unfortunate is that these crimes often don’t result in charges, and perpetrators may never face justice in criminal courts.
If you’re a survivor of sexual assault, a Palm Beach Gardens sexual abuse lawyer at GOLDLAW can help you pursue your legal right to financial compensation. We can help you recover money for the pain and emotional suffering your assailant caused, as well as money for lost financial opportunities.
We stand firm as advocates for survivors of sexual abuse and assault. Call us today to talk to a personal injury lawyer in Palm Beach Gardens about your options.
How We Can Help Survivors of Sexual Abuse
Survivors of sexual abuse often feel like they have nowhere to turn and no one to support them. The legal system can often turn a blind eye to offenses, and social support networks for victims can be lacking. Victims can be shamed or humiliated for their allegations due to social stigma.
We can provide a full suite of legal services to help victims of sexual abuse pursue compensation. Our attorneys can investigate for signs of abuse, gather medical evidence and eyewitness statements, and negotiate with insurers for a settlement.
Our team at GOLDLAW understands the severity of these cases and is prepared to present an equally serious legal response. You can count on us to provide compassionate and empathetic legal counsel in your difficult circumstances.
For a free legal consultation with a sexual abuse lawyer serving Palm Beach Gardens, call 561-222-2222
What Counts As Sexual Abuse in Florida?
Sexual abuse is a broad term that covers a wide range of criminal offenses in Florida. Sexual abuse consists of any kind of forced or non-consensual sexual actions or conduct. Sexual abuse can include any of the following behaviors:
- Unwanted touching, groping, or sexual contact
- Rape or sexual assault
- Using blackmail or positional authority to extort sexual favors
- Exposing body parts to children or non-consensual adults
- Repeated sexual comments or sexual gestures
- Creating sexual materials depicting a non-consenting person
- Forcing someone to view sexually explicit materials
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Where Can Sexual Abuse Happen?
Sexual abuse can happen anywhere and is unfortunately a much more common crime than many may assume. Despite common conceptions, perpetrators of sexual abuse are often someone whom the victim knows and trusts, such as family, teachers, coaches, or religious leaders.
These perpetrators often use their power and authority to commit acts against vulnerable individuals, knowing that they’ll be unwilling to report the misconduct. Sexual abuse can happen in:
- Private homes and residences
- Hospitals, medical facilities, nursing homes
- Counselors and therapist offices
- Schools and youth programs
- Prisons and correctional facilities
- Recreation and sports centers
- Summer camps
- Churches, temples, and other religious institutions
No matter where it happens, sexual violence is a heinous crime and a gross violation of victims’ right to safety and security. If you or a loved one has been victimized by an abuser, give us a call, and we can discuss steps to pursue justice.
Call or text 561-222-2222 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
Liability for Sexual Abuse in Palm Beach Gardens
The occurrence of sexual abuse is often the fault of multiple parties, and other entities aside from the perpetrator can bear liability if they failed to intervene or protect victims. A civil sexual abuse lawsuit can hold the following parties accountable:
- The individual perpetrator
- Landlords and building owners who fail to provide adequate security
- Businesses and employers who fail to conduct background checks
- Youth program organizers and organizations
- Religious institutions or schools that cover up abuse
We can investigate your claims and identify all parties who could bear responsibility for the harm you’ve suffered. This will allow us to pursue the maximum possible compensation in your case.
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Compensation You Can Recover in a Sexual Abuse Lawsuit
Through a personal injury lawsuit, you may be able to recover compensation for any losses you suffered as a direct result of the abuse. Depending on your circumstances, compensable losses may include the following:
- Medical expenses for treatment related to the abuse
- Therapy costs for emotional counseling
- Lost work income and lost employment opportunities
- Cost of moving and relocation for safety
- Emotional distress and mental anguish
- Punitive damages in cases of extreme misconduct
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit for Sexual Abuse in Palm Beach Gardens?
There are two relevant time limits for suing for sexual abuse in Florida, depending on the parties involved in the claim:
- Claims against the perpetrator. For claims against the perpetrator, adults typically have four years to sue for sexual abuse. The timer starts counting from the most recent date the abuse occurred.
- Third–party negligence claims. For third-party negligence claims against an institution, such as a school or medical facility, the standard two–year personal injury statute of limitations applies.
These time limits can be extended if you were a minor when the abuse happened. In either case, filing early and promptly is the key to a successful claim. A sexual abuse lawyer in Palm Beach Gardens can help you navigate timelines and ensure you meet filing deadlines.
Contact a Sexual Abuse Lawyer in Palm Beach Gardens from GOLDLAW
Sexual abuse is a vile crime, and perpetrators deserve to be held accountable for the harm they’ve caused. The team at GOLDLAW is here to be your legal advocate and fight for your interests and well-being.
Call our offices online or reach out by phone to schedule a free case consultation with a sexual abuse lawyer in Palm Beach Gardens. Get GOLDLAW and get the help you need and the compensation you deserve.