Bridgeport Sexual Abuse Lawyer

No one ever deserves to be subjected to any form of sexual assault or abuse. If you have been mistreated in this way, you have the right to take legal action against your abuser in both criminal and civil court. While the former type of claim will be focused on punishing the named defendant for criminal acts they committed “beyond a reasonable doubt,” the latter will focus on financial reimbursement for harm suffered at the hands of the defendant, proven through a “preponderance of the evidence.”

Although sexual abuse lawsuits have a less strict standard of proof than associated criminal cases, getting a good result is not necessarily easy. In both legal and emotional terms, pursuing this kind of case can be extremely difficult to do without the help of a compassionate personal injury attorney. Working with the support of a Bridgeport sexual abuse lawyer from Berkowitz and Hanna, LLC will not only streamline the legal process but also give you better chances of getting paid fairly for your compensable losses.

What Damages Could Be Recoverable Through a Sexual Abuse Lawsuit?

Money alone cannot completely make up for the pain and trauma that criminal sexual assault or abuse can cause. The purpose of a sexual abuse lawsuit is instead to seek financial restitution for specific economic and non-economic forms of harm caused by the defendant.

Depending on the specifics of a case, compensation could account for:

• Costs of medical care for injuries caused by acts of sexual abuse, as well as costs for psychological counseling and treatment
• Lost work income or working ability stemming from sexual abuse
• Physical pain and suffering
• Emotional distress and trauma
• Lost quality/enjoyment of life

Guidance from an experienced Bridgeport sexual abuse attorney can be key to both identifying what losses should be factored into a lawsuit or settlement and accurately assessing their financial value.

Filing Time Limits for Sexual Abuse Litigation

Legal counsel can also provide vital help with building and filing a strong civil claim over sexual abuse within applicable filing deadlines. For people who were sexually abused or assaulted after turning 21 years old, the standard “statute of limitations” codified in Connecticut General Statutes §52-577 applies. This means they typically have three years after the most recent occurrence of abuse to formally file suit.

Conversely, people who were subjected to sexual assault or abuse before turning 21 have a maximum of 30 years to file suit after their 21st birthday, per C.G.S. §52-577d. This means they have until their 51st birthday at the latest to start the legal process. Even in this kind of scenario, it is generally advisable to contact a sexual abuse lawyer in Bridgeport and take action sooner rather than later to ensure that relevant evidence is still available to incorporate into the claim.

Consider Working with a Bridgeport Sexual Abuse Attorney

If you are intimidated by the prospect of reporting your abuser to the police or demanding civil compensation, you are far from alone. You have help available to you from dedicated legal professionals who understand what you are going through and will work tirelessly to protect both your privacy and your best interests throughout the legal process.

A conversation with a Bridgeport sexual abuse lawyer can give you answers to pressing questions and confidence about the next steps you should take to enforce your rights under Connecticut civil law. Call today to schedule your free confidential meeting.