Sexual Abuse Attorneys Assisting Anchorage Victims
In the aftermath of a sexual assault or sexual abuse, victims will often have wide-ranging questions. In addition to the uncertainty that trauma brings, those who have suffered a sexual assault may also be unaware of their legal options. Anchorage sexual assault attorney services offered by Sean Brown at the Alaska Accident and Injury Law Center of the Brown Law Firm personal injury team is dedicated to making sure victims understand their legal rights. The following are frequently asked questions our firm receives in regards to sexual assault cases. If you, or a loved one, has been sexually assaulted and have further questions about your potential options please call our office today at 907-222-9900 to find out more about how we can help.
What Should I Do if I was Sexually Abused?
First and foremost, you should get immediate medical attention and file a police report. Although it may seem overwhelming, both these steps are important to move forward in making sure you get the help you need. Critical evidence is also collected through a medical exam and by an investigation. Additionally, seeking counseling or therapy is recommended to aid in recovery, especially if the victim is a child. Consulting an experienced sexual assault lawyer in Anchorage as soon as possible is also advisable so that your legal rights can be protected.
Experienced Child Sexual Abuse Attorney in Anchorage
Anchorage child sexual abuse attorney Sean Brown of The Brown Law Firm, LLC is committed to making sure victims have a voice, fighting on behalf of each client to protect their rights. The Alaska Accident and Injury Law Center represents residents throughout Western Alaska, including Anchorage, Aniak, Bethel, Hooper Bay, and Saint Mary’s. Although no legal action can make a victim of child sexual abuse whole again, it can provide a sense of justice and financial support for ongoing costs associated with trauma. If you have questions about your legal options, please call our office at 907-222-9900 today to find out more.
What if My Child Has Been a Victim of Sexual Abuse?
Medical attention and specialized counseling for a child should also be the first step upon learning your child has been a victim of abuse. Notifying the authorities is also crucial to ensure the dangerous individual who committed the abuse is apprehended. In Alaska, civil claims against the abuser as well as other liable parties can be brought either when the child is still a minor or once they reach the age of majority. Legal guardians may also file a lawsuit on a a minor victim’s behalf.
Do I Still Have Legal Options If No Criminal Charges Have Been Filed?
You still can pursue civil action to recover damages related to your assault. Criminal and civil cases are separate claims. The burden of proof for a civil claim is also lower than those to hold someone criminally responsible. This means that even if there wasn’t enough evidence for a criminal trial to proceed, a victim can still pursue a personal injury claim against the parties liable for their harm.
Who Can Be Held Responsible for My Injuries?
The person who committed the sexual assault is always responsible for the harm caused. In some situations, however, other third parties could also share fault. For example, in child sexual abuse cases, schools who fail to do proper background checks on their employees, or fail to engage in mandatory reporting, can be held accountable. Property owners who don’t keep their premises reasonably safe from foreseeable harm can also be found negligent.
What Can I Be Compensated for in a Civil Claim?
Compensation is situation-based and can vary from case to case. Generally, victims of a sexual assault can recover damages for past and future medical expenses; lost income due to time away from work either for recovery or therapy sessions; loss of enjoyment in life; loss of consortium; and other pain and suffering.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit?
In Alaska, the statute of limitations for sexual assault injury claims is two years.
Consult a Seasoned Anchorage Sexual Abuse Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been a victim of sexual abuse, it is important to seek justice. Sexual assault attorney Sean Brown and his team at The Brown Law Firm, LLC assists clients in Anchorage as well as throughout Western Alaska, including Aniak, Bethel, Hooper Bay, and Saint Mary’s. We are dedicated to making sure victims’ voices are heard and they have the resources they need to aid in their recovery. The Alaska Accident and Injury Law Center strives to provide comprehensive and compassionate legal representation for every client, regardless of where they live. If you have questions about your legal options after a sexual assault, please call our office at 907.222.9900 to speak with an attorney today.
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