Sexual abuse survivors have more rights than many realize. Seeking justice may not end with the attacker’s criminal trial. Even if the attacker is found not guilty, you, as the victim, may be able to seek justice through the U.S. civil justice system. A sexual abuse lawsuit holds the guilty party (and any other parties who may share blame for the abuse) accountable for the harm they caused and financially responsible for the losses you suffered.
The legal team at Kellogg & Van Aken LLP can help you bring a claim against the person who abused you and any other contributing party. We carefully review your situation and provide compassionate, personalized advice about your next steps. As your San Mateo, CA, sexual abuse lawyer, our goal is to protect your privacy while advocating for your rights. We give you honest answers and vigorous legal representation. Contact us today for a free consultation.
How Can A San Mateo Sexual Abuse Lawyer Help Me?
A sexual abuse lawyer is a personal injury attorney who focuses on helping people who have been victims of sexual abuse secure compensation for their monetary losses, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma. The person who abused you may be facing criminal charges, and while it’s eminently satisfying to see the perpetrator paced behind bars, the reality is that you may have considerable out-of-pocket expenses related to the abuse.
Your attorney can investigate the case, using evidence from a rape kit or police report, witness statements, and other physical evidence to build a case against the perpetrator and any other party that may have contributed. For example, if you were abused at work, your employer may also be liable for the harm you suffered by permitting unsafe working conditions. Or, if you were abused in a nightclub or bar, the property owner may be partly liable for negligent security. File the legal motions to advance your claim, negotiate a settlement out of court if possible, and take your claim to trial to get you the compensation you’re entitled to.
Compensation Available In A Sexual Abuse Lawsuit
You may have required intensive medical care to heal from your physical injuries and psychological re and counseling to address the emotional and mental wounds from the abuse. These cost money – and it’s the responsibility of the perpetrator to make you financially whole after assailing you. A civil suit can help you secure compensation for the money you spent on treatment, as well as other losses, such as missed wages if you had to miss work or quit your job because of the attack.
You’re also entitled to consideration for the pain and suffering from the attack, your injuries, and the emotional trauma you suffered. We demand full and fair compensation for your intangible, yet still valuable, losses.
Do You Need Help Seeking Justice After Sexual Abuse?
If you’re not sure if you have a valid claim for damages after sexual abuse, call Kellogg & Van Aken LLP. We offer a free initial consultation where we review your case and give you professional, compassionate advice for your next steps. Call us today to speak with a San Mateo sexual abuse lawyer.
Many Victims Of Sexual Abuse Don’t Report It – We Hear You & We Believe You
Sexual abuse is a profoundly traumatic experience, and many victims face numerous barriers that prevent them from coming forward. Part of your San Mateo, CA, sexual abuse attorney’s role is supporting you throughout the legal process, listening to your concerns, educating you about the process, and ensuring that you feel safe, heard, and respected as your case proceeds.
One significant reason victims may not report sexual abuse is fear of not being believed or facing disbelief. Many survivors worry that their accounts will be questioned or dismissed, especially if they have no physical evidence or if the abuse occurred a long time ago. This fear can be compounded by the stigma surrounding sexual violence, which often leads to victim-blaming attitudes and further isolation.
There Is No Shame In Being Abused
Shame and embarrassment also play a critical role in why victims remain silent. The personal nature of sexual abuse can make it incredibly difficult for survivors to discuss their experiences, and they may worry about judgment or ostracism from family, friends, or their community. This internal struggle can be exacerbated by the cultural and societal norms that stigmatize discussing sexual matters openly.
Additionally, there are practical concerns that can deter reporting. Victims might fear retaliation from the abuser, especially if the abuser is someone in a position of power, such as an employer or a family member.
The lack of support systems and resources can further discourage victims from coming forward. Access to counseling, legal advice, and a safe environment are crucial for survivors to feel empowered to report abuse.
Sexual Abuse Is More Common Than Many People Realize
Just because it’s not uncommon does not make it right. We support you in seeking justice, and we advocate for you to make your voice heard.
Sexual abuse remains a serious issue in California, with disturbing statistics highlighting its prevalence. In recent years, the state has seen thousands of reported cases annually, though many go unreported due to fear, shame, or distrust in the legal system. For instance, the California Department of Justice reported over 14,000 sexual assault offenses in 2022 alone. Additionally, data reveals that a significant portion of victims are minors, with a notable percentage experiencing abuse within familial or trusted relationships.
Your Support And Your Legal Advocate
At Kellogg & Van Aken LLP, we’ve found it’s not unusual for our attorneys to be the first person (or one of the first) to whom a client discloses sexual abuse. Our strict attorney-client protections and the knowledge that clients are talking to someone who hears them, believes them, and will help them can make it easier for people who have been hurt to disclose their stories.
We’re ready to help you, and we believe you. We offer guidance on the legal process, ensuring that your report is filed correctly and efficiently. Then, to build your case we gather and present evidence, facilitate interactions with law enforcement, and advocate for your rights throughout the investigation. If you’d like, we can connect you with support services, such as counseling and medical care, and protect you from potential retaliation or further trauma. Contact us today for compassionate yet tenacious legal representation from a San Mateo sexual abuse attorney.
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