Sexual Abuse of Children

Our Services and How We Serve Our Clients

Childhood sexual abuse leaves victims with deep scars and feelings of confusion, anger, shame, and depression. This type of abuse is far too common. Legal justice allows the victims of these crimes to find closure and begin rebuilding their lives.

A criminal case is brought by the government against the alleged abuser and guilt is punishable by incarceration, imposition of fines, mandatory counseling, probation, and other sanctions. A civil lawsuit is brought by the alleged victim of the abuse or the parent or guardian of the victim. Liability is expressed in the form of damages or compensation owed by the abuser to the victim for harm and suffering resulting from the abuse. Funds won from civil cases can be used to obtain the counseling and support victims need to overcome the trauma they have experienced.

If the case is brought to criminal court, the alleged abuser will either be convicted or found not guilty. If the abuser is convicted in criminal court, it will be easier to hold the offender liable in a civil lawsuit. However, even if the court finds that the abuser isn’t guilty, a separate lawsuit can be brought before the civil court. The standard of proof in a civil case is lower than it is for criminal cases, so the victim has a better chance of proving the offender’s guilt

In addition to the abuser, other persons or organizations may be held legally accountable for the crime, if they were in a position to prevent the abuse or had a legal obligation to do so.

The following people or organizations may be held liable: