Sexual abuse can happen anywhere and comes in many forms such as rape, incest, molestation, and harassment. It can happen in the workplace, school, church, and other organizations. The abuse can happen to a minor, adult, or elderly person, and can leave lasting damage.
At Philadelphia Injury Lawyers P.C., our Philadelphia sexual assault lawyers understand the battle survivors of sexual assault face when they decide to hold their abusers accountable. Taking steps to pursue justice against your abuser is one of the bravest decisions you can make, but it can also be one of the hardest choices you’ll make.
Call us now or complete our online contact form to learn how we can support you.
Can Sexual Abuse Survivors File a Lawsuit in Philadelphia?
Yes, survivors of sexual abuse can file lawsuits in Philly. We are personal injury lawyers in Philadelphia who handle sexual assault claims and help survivors file sexual assault claims in Pennsylvania.
- A sexual abuse lawsuit can be lengthy, complicated, and overwhelming. Survivors may need a lawyer to conduct an extensive investigation before filing a lawsuit to protect their legal rights and gather evidence of the abuse. This step is critical to ensure that the case is as strong as possible for a successful outcome.
A sexual abuse attorney can also provide valuable support and guidance, helping the survivor understand their options and make informed decisions regarding their case. We are here to support you through every step of your claim, especially when the process gets tough.
Damages Survivors of Sexual Abuse in Philadelphia Can Seek in a Civil Claim
Survivors of sexual abuse in Philadelphia may be able to claim damages in a civil lawsuit against their abuser or other liable parties. These damages help to compensate the survivor for the harm they have suffered and help them on their path to recovery. Some of the damages that may be recoverable in a sexual abuse lawsuit include:
- Medical expenses: Survivors can pursue compensation for any medical expenses incurred related to the sexual abuse, including hospital bills, therapy sessions, prescription medications, and other treatments.
- Lost wages: If the survivor missed work or lost their job due to the trauma of the sexual abuse or the need to attend medical appointments or legal proceedings, they can claim lost wages as part of their damages.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: Sexual abuse can have a profound impact on a survivor’s capacity to enjoy life and participate in activities they once cherished. Survivors can seek compensation for this loss of enjoyment and the negative impact on their quality of life.
- Therapy and counseling costs: Survivors of sexual abuse often seek therapy and counseling to cope with the trauma of their experience. They can seek compensation for the cost of these services, both in the present and future.
- Disability and disfigurement: In some cases, sexual abuse can result in permanent physical disabilities or disfigurement. Survivors can seek compensation for the impact these injuries have on their life and future earning potential.
- Future lost earnings: If the trauma from the sexual abuse has long-term effects on the survivor’s job, they may be able to claim compensation for future lost earnings. This can include reduced earning capacity or the inability to pursue certain career paths due to the psychological impact of the abuse.
- Rehabilitation costs: In addition to therapy and counseling, some survivors may require other forms of rehabilitation, such as occupational therapy or vocational training, to help them cope with the aftermath of sexual abuse and rebuild their lives. The costs associated with these services may be incorporated into the damages sought in a lawsuit.
It is important to note that the specific damages available in a sexual abuse lawsuit will be contingent upon the individual circumstances of each case. A seasoned sexual abuse attorney can assist survivors in evaluating the complete scope of their damages and fight for full compensation.
Why Survivors in Philadelphia May Elect to File a Sexual Assault Lawsuit
Although filing a sexual assault lawsuit will not erase the crime itself or the trauma it has caused, doing so can expose the abuser and potentially lead to financial compensation that survivors need and deserve. Moreover, filing a lawsuit can hold the person who committed this heinous act accountable.
Filing a sexual assault lawsuit provides some survivors with a sense of empowerment and control over their lives. Sexual assault can leave survivors feeling helpless, traumatized, and vulnerable. By taking legal action, some survivors regain some control and hold their attackers responsible for their actions. The legal process can also provide survivors with a platform to tell their stories and be heard, which can be an essential step in the healing process for some.
Furthermore, filing a sexual assault lawsuit can help increase awareness about the widespread occurrence of sexual violence in society and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable. When survivors come forward and share their experiences, it can encourage other survivors to do the same, creating a supportive community and reducing the stigma of being a victim of a sexual assault.
What to Do to Protect Your Rights After an Incident of Sexual Abuse
If you or someone you know has endured sexual abuse, it is essential to take immediate action to ensure safety and well-being. Here are some crucial steps to take after an incident of sexual abuse:
- Seek medical attention: Even if there are no evident injuries, it is important to seek medical care as soon as possible. A medical professional can provide necessary treatment, document injuries, and gather evidence that could be relevant in a legal case.
- Preserve evidence: If possible, avoid showering, bathing, or changing clothes until after a medical examination. If you must change clothes, store the clothing in a paper bag to preserve evidence.
- Report the abuse: Contact local law enforcement to report the sexual abuse. If the abuse occurred in the workplace or at school, notify the appropriate authorities, such as a supervisor or school administrator.
- Consider legal action: Consult with an experienced sexual abuse attorney to learn your legal rights and options. A lawyer can assist you in filing a civil lawsuit against the abuser and any other parties who may be liable, such as institutions that failed to protect you from the abuse.
The Deadline to File a Sexual Assault Claim in Philadelphia, PA
According to Pennsylvania’s sexual abuse laws, the statute of limitations to file a civil sexual assault lawsuit depends on the age of the survivor at the time of the abuse:
- Under 18 years old: For survivors who were minors at the time of the sexual assault, the statute of limitations is 37 years from the date the survivor turns 18. This means that survivors have until their 55th birthday to file a civil lawsuit.
- 18 years old or older: For survivors who were adults at the time of the sexual assault, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the assault. In some cases, the statute of limitations may toll, so speak with an attorney about the specifics of your case.
It is important to note that these deadlines apply specifically to civil lawsuits and do not impact the timeframe for criminal charges, which may have different statutes of limitations.
Get a Free Consultation With a Compassionate Philadelphia Sexual Abuse Lawyer
In addition to seeking justice and holding the perpetrator accountable, filing a sexual abuse lawsuit can also help the survivor obtain compensation for the physical, emotional, and psychological harm they have suffered. This compensation can include medical expenses, therapy costs, lost wages, and other damages related to the abuse.
It is essential for sexual abuse survivors in Philadelphia to know that they have the right to file a lawsuit and seek justice for the crimes committed against them. By collaborating with an experienced and empathetic sexual abuse attorney, survivors can take the first step towards healing and recovery. Call us now or complete our online contact form for legal help.
