I have represented many victims of rape and Sexual Assault. Each event was tragic and heartbreaking. Every victim was different in how they handled it and each learned to cope as best they could. While here is a lot of media attention regarding on-campus assaults and athletes and politicians, the truth is that most of the time the event never gets reported.
According to the National Institute of Justice website: “The majority of Sexual Assaults are not reported to the authorities. The Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) reports that the majority of rapes and Sexual Assaults perpetrated against women and girls in the United States between 1992 and 2000 were not reported to the police. Only 36 percent of rapes, 34 percent of attempted rapes, and 26 percent of Sexual Assaults were reported. Reasons for not reporting assault vary among individuals, but one study identified the following as common:
- Self-blame or guilt
- Shame, embarrassment, or desire to keep the assault a private matter
- Humiliation or fear of the perpetrator or other individual’s perceptions
- Fear of not being believed or of being accused of playing a role in the crime
- Lack of trust in the criminal justice system
The civil justice system can also provide justice for victims of rape and Sexual Assault. In addition to compensation for pain and suffering, medical expenses, counseling expenses and lost wages can sometimes also be recovered, as well as punitive damages. While there are laws protecting rape and assault victims from having their identities revealed by the media, in a civil claim for damages there are also legal steps that can be taken to keep the victim’s identity private. Your privacy will be respected and protected.
Civil liability for damages in a rape or Sexual Assault case depends on the circumstances because each situation and location is different. Sometimes inadequate security or lack of training or supervision is to blame. Other times a person in a position of authority is at fault. Other times, there may be consent issues or arguments being made. Because of the importance of preserving evidence and gathering the facts, if you have been the victim of a Sexual Assault, you should get your legal questions answered and learn what your rights are as soon as you are able to do so.
Let Us Help You and Your Family
I realize that rape and Sexual Assault victims have been severely traumatized and I can promise you that you will be protected and respected when I represent you. I am individually devoted to my client’s cases and I care, individually, about them and their families. If you have questions, there is no fee for us to talk and I will be glad to answer your questions. You or a family member should feel free to call our office at your convenience.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a fall or if you have questions about your rights, please call for a free consultation.