Social movements like #MeToo have highlighted just how widespread both individual and institutional sexual abuse are. Unfortunately, there is still a lot of work to be done when it comes to addressing past sexual abuse and preventing it from happening in the future. Much of this work will involve holding abusers and the people who enabled them legally liable for their misconduct.
If you were sexually assaulted or abused, you likely have grounds to file suit over the harm you have unjustly suffered as a result. Help from a dedicated New Haven sexual abuse lawyer is available in pursuing a civil claim against your abuser(s). From identifying everyone who engaged in or facilitated your abuse to demanding fair financial recovery for losses you have experienced since, a personal injury attorney from Berkowitz and Hanna, LLC can be an irreplaceable ally throughout your legal proceedings.
Of course, the people most directly at fault for an act of sexual assault or abuse are the individuals who committed the illegal act. In almost every sexual abuse lawsuit, the primary defendant is the abuser(s) who personally harmed the plaintiff filing the claim. With that said, it is also possible—and very often prudent—to demand civil compensation from others who did not personally engage in sexual abuse, but whose negligence directly contributed to allowing an abuser to cause harm to others.
A chief example of this type of “vicarious liability” for sexual abuse is the liability held by religious institutions such as the Catholic Church for failing to properly supervise clergy members and, in some cases, knowingly allowing sexual abuse to continue rather than reporting incidents to police. If appropriate, a New Haven sexual abuse attorney could work to hold leaders in other types of organizations like school systems, after-school clubs, and athletic leagues legally liable for failing to prevent or properly address abuse.
Both economic and non-economic forms of harm suffered by sexual abuse victims as a direct result of abuse can be incorporated into an ensuing lawsuit or settlement demand. Damages can include but are not limited to:
Fortunately, recent changes to Connecticut state law have extended the effective filing deadlines for child sexual abuse claims so that many prospective claimants have decades to take legal action. That said, various time limits apply under different circumstances, and a sexual abuse lawyer in New Haven can help you understand your options.
There are no circumstances under which sexual abuse or assault should be tolerated. Establishing civil fault for the harm you experienced as a result of being sexually abused can be difficult both legally and personally, especially if you try to go through the legal process alone.
Representation from a New Haven sexual abuse lawyer will improve your chances of securing a favorable case result and minimizing additional stress on yourself or your loved ones along the way. Call Berkowitz and Hanna, LLC today to discuss your options.
Berkowitz Hanna
251 Edwards Street
New Haven CT
06511
