There are different pathways adult survivors of sexual abuse can go down when addressing childhood sexual assault as an adult. Two different cases are utilized, which influence the case outcomes for the perpetrator, should they be convicted. The laws differ depending on the state where you live, so it is important to be aware of your state’s statute of limitations so that you can file your claim before that point.
One can utilize two approaches when filing for these cases: a civil case or a criminal one. If a criminal case is pursued, this state determines how the case is pursued as well as whether the perpetrator is sentenced. In civil cases, the assault survivor determines whether to accept a settlement, to sue, or to move forward with a trial.
The route that you choose to go will influence the kinds of lawyers, judges, and other key players that are involved. Depending on the case’s specifics, the type of legal involvement may differ. Given that these cases are specific to adult survivors of sexual abuse, the survivor may not move forward with a family law lawyer or a tort case. To uncover more about getting justice as an adult survivor of childhood sexual abuse, learn how to get justice as an adult, and how a sexual assault lawyer can help.
Know The Laws Regarding Childhood Sexual Abuse
The statutes of limitations have been extended for adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse, under the Child Victim Act. Survivors that need more time to pursue legal action with a sexual assault lawyer, now have up until their 28th birthday to press criminal charges. These changes were put in motion in an attempt to change the strict statute of limitations that were taking place in New York State until 2019.
Find A Sexual Assault Lawyer You Can Trust
Work specifically with a sexual abuse lawyer to pursue your case. Lawyers who work primarily as sexual assault lawyers are the best to work with because they have the most experience and knowledge surrounding these cases and how the legal system works regarding them. They will know additional information you should be aware of, such as not disclosing your address in a criminal case to ensure your privacy and safety from the perpetrator. Your lawyer will also know that the definition of sexual molestation and sexual abuse varies in some states.
Review the information online that you find about each sexual assault lawyer you’re considering working with, including former client testimonials who have come out of similar cases. Take your time looking for the right sexual assault lawyer for you, but keep in mind that you’ll need someone skilled with sexual abuse cases to increase your likelihood of achieving justice.
Get The Justice You Deserve
Seeking justice as an adult survivor of childhood sexual abuse is a serious legal matter. Make sure that you work with a lawyer that you genuinely trust to get the justice you seek to move forward with your life.
