The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention claim that 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men will experience some type of sexual violence in their lives. Sexual abuse is often incredibly traumatic for the victims, both physically and emotionally, and the aftermath can leave a lifelong impact. Our Port Charlotte lawyers at The Law Place understand this, and we will do everything possible to seek justice on your behalf.
Unfortunately, there are some gaps in the Florida legal system, which all too often lead to criminals walking free of conviction. Even when a perpetrator is convicted, there are other ways in which victims can ensure that they secure justice. We know that it will never fully repair the trauma that victims have had to endure. We can help in securing compensation on their behalf.
Our Port Charlotte attorneys have over 75 years of collective experience in dealing with the Florida legal system and helping the victims of violent crimes seek civil justice for all they’ve suffered through. Our personal injury attorneys will fight tirelessly on your behalf to receive as much compensation as possible. So contact us today to schedule a free consultation with one of our highly knowledgeable lawyers at (941) 444-4444. Phone lines are open 24/7.
Types of Sex Offenses in Port Charlotte, FL.
Sexual abuse is defined by the American Psychological Association as “unwanted sexual activity, with perpetrators using force, making threats, or taking advantage of victims not able to give consent.” Florida Statutes list and define some sexual offenses as the following:
- Sexual battery/rape – This is described in Florida Statute 794.011 as vaginal, oral, or anal penetration with a sexual organ, body part, or object without consent.
- Statutory rape – Statutory rape is the same as sexual battery, but where the victim is between the ages of 12 and 16, regardless of whether consent was given. This is described in Florida Statute 800.04
- Molestation/groping – If a victim was touched or fondled by someone in a sexual way, then it is considered a sexual offense.
- Indecent exposure of sexual organs – It is illegal for someone to expose their sexual organs to a victim either in public or on someone else’s property, as is stated in Florida Statute 800.03.
- Masturbation – It is a crime to masturbate or commit any unwanted sexual act in the presence of a victim, even if it doesn’t involve the actual exposure of sexual organs or sexual contact.
These are not the only types of sexual offenses in the state of Florida. If the sexual abuse you’ve experienced isn’t listed above, then you should still contact The Law Place. An experienced Port Charlotte sexual assault lawyer will be able to discuss your case with you in detail and offer your specific advice. Our attorneys will be determined to win the compensation that you deserve, so don’t hesitate to contact us. Even if the offender wasn’t prosecuted or convicted of the crime, you could still file a lawsuit. In fact, sexual abuse victims are more likely to win a civil case and hold an offender liable for damages than it is to obtain a criminal conviction. This is because less hard evidence is needed.
If you have any queries about the legal process and your case, then you should get in touch with The Law Place now and schedule a free consultation.
Emotional Trauma Commonly Caused by Sexual Abuse
Victims of sexual abuse not only have to suffer from physical injuries but also extreme mental and emotional trauma. Many victims suffer for years, or even decades, after the abuse, to the extent that they have to rely on therapy to help them overcome the experience. Many survivors endure the following consequences:
- Substance and alcohol abuse.
- Difficulty sleeping.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
- Anxiety disorders.
- Depression.
- Self-hate.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
If you have been the victim of a sex crime, then it’s likely that you’re suffering from some of the above consequences or others. If you are experiencing similar hardships, then you should contact The Law Place. Our experienced sexual assault lawyers will work with doctors, economic professionals, psychotherapists, and others in order to accurately work out how much compensation you’re entitled to and will use their expertise and help to construct a strong argument on your behalf.
To schedule a free consultation with a law firm that you can rely on, contact The Law Place today.
Who Is the Negligent Party?
The first and main negligent party is, of course, the perpetrator. They can be sued for damages. However, even if the attacker hasn’t been identified or found, there are still opportunities for you to seek justice and the compensation you deserve. Our attorneys will investigate your case thoroughly to discover any other parties that are liable for the damages you sustained.
Some parties that could be held negligent are listed below:
- Hotel or motel owners.
- Universities or schools.
- Lock manufacturers.
- Private security companies.
- Alarm system manufacturers.
It may be hard for you to know for sure if you have a valid claim. To receive specific legal advice regarding your case from skilled sexual assault lawyers, contact The Law Place today to schedule a free consultation. Our team of personal injury attorneys has several decades of collective experience in dealing with the Florida legal system and helping clients just like you.
We’re Florida’s top litigation team with over 75 years of combined experience
Damages Commonly Recovered in Sexual Abuse Cases in Port Charlotte, FL.
Once establishing the negligent party or parties, a sexual abuse lawyer will be able to determine how many damages you may be entitled to and the maximum amount of compensation that you could receive.
The damages that The Law Place often secure for victims of sexual abuse in Port Charlotte are listed below:
- Psychological trauma.
- Emotional counseling.
- Medical expenses.
- Loss of employment or wages.
We understand that no amount of monetary compensation will be able to change the past or fix the trauma you’ve experienced, but it will help you manage any financial burdens you may have since been dealing with and will serve as proof that some form of justice has been served. By working with a lawyer, you will be able to relax and no longer have to stress over your claim, as we will be able to support you through this completely.
From the initial call to updates on your case status, we are here to get you answers.
The Law Place
If you or a loved are a victim of sexual abuse, then you should contact The Law Place as soon as possible to schedule a free consultation. Our lawyers will discuss your case with you in detail to determine whether you have a claim you can pursue. If so, our team will immediately take action and fight for the justice that you deserve. The extensive knowledge and experience that our attorneys possess will ensure that, by working with us, you will be giving yourself the best chance at securing the compensation you deserve.
We know that after all you’ve been through, you deserve justice, and we are prepared to fight for it on your behalf.
So don’t wait for help; contact The Law Place today to book a free consultation. Our phone lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so call us at (941) 444-4444.