Sexual abuse survivors have the right to seek compensation for the harm an alleged perpetrator causes them. An abuser may face criminal and civil charges for sexual abuse. While the government may file criminal charges on behalf of the state when enough evidence exists in a sexual abuse case, A California sexual abuse attorney can file a civil action on your behalf to seek compensation for your damages.
Determining Your Damages in a Sexual Abuse Case
A sexual abuse lawyer will review the evidence in your case to evaluate and calculate the damages you may seek from an abuser and other potential parties in a claim. Your attorney will calculate the value of your damages on the following:
- Your age at the time of the abuse
- The number of times the abuse occurred
- The extent of the abuse
- Physical injuries
- Mental and emotional injury
- The evidence to support your claim
It will be up to a sexual abuse attorney representing your case to prove that it is more likely than not that the abuse occurred. Criminal charges are not necessary to pursue civil action. Insurance coverage and the resources of an abuser may also impact the compensation you may recover for damages.
Types of Damages in a Sexual Abuse Case
Damages that have a definitive cost are economic damages. Non-economic damages cover harms to you that do not have a fixed dollar amount. However, their impact on your life matters. Awarding exemplary damages may also occur when the court seeks to set an example of and punish a defendant for their behavior. Damages may include:
- Medical expenses
- Medication costs
- Therapy, counseling, and mental health treatment costs
- Lost income or lost earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life and relationship
Other specific damages may apply to your case. Working with an experienced legal representative allows abuse survivors to combat unfair settlement offers and, more accurately, account for their damages. No California sexual abuse attorney can guarantee a specific amount for your damages. However, many survivors secure more favorable case results because of the legal knowledge and dedication of a legal representative fighting on their behalf.
Pursuing Damages in a Sexual Abuse Case can Provide Additional Benefits to Survivors
You may experience a sense of justice after filing a civil action against an abuser and any parties that fail to prevent the abuse from occurring. Finding a voice and the ability to fight back can support healing through telling your story. Pursuing civil action also shines a light on the abuser’s actions, even if criminal charges do not occur.
Your legal stance may offer protection to other individuals subject to exposure to an abuser. Professional boards and other administrators responsible for screening employees may choose to revoke the licensing of an abuser or remove them from a professional or leadership role because of their negligence, harm to you, and potential threat to others. Pursuing legal action can help you heal from sexual abuse in many ways.
Seeking Damages for Sexual Abuse is a Personal Choice
Choosing to pursue a civil action against an abuser is a choice no one can make but you. However, working with a compassionate team with decades of experience representing clients and advocating for survivors through the legislative process provides the assurance you have a team willing to fight for you.