Attorney for Victims of Sexual Abuse in State College

If you were sexually abused in the past, you might have had a hard time reporting it to the police. Even if criminal charges are never assessed, you can still get justice in a civil lawsuit. Our lawyers can help you sue the person or people responsible for your abuse and get fair compensation.

When filing a lawsuit for sexual abuse, we should consider who perpetrated the abuse and whether any other people or entities may be implicated. For example, people who were sexually abused by a teacher may sue the teacher but also the school. Your damages may be substantial, especially those for non-economic damages related to pain, suffering, and emotional distress. Sexual abuse often leaves deep psychological scars, and your compensation may be worth more than you realize.

Get a free, confidential review of your case from our lawyers for victims of sexual abuse by calling The Law Office of Andrew Shubin at (814) 826-3586.

Who Can I Sue for Sexual Abuse in State College?

As you can probably guess, you may sue the person who abused you for civil damages. However, you might not realize that others may be implicated, including larger organizations or institutions.

The Person Who Abused You

The person who perpetrated the abuse should be included in your case. This can be incredibly difficult, as many victims never want to see their abuser again. Unfortunately, when you sue the person who hurt you, you will likely have to face them in court. Our lawyers for victims of sexual abuse will help prepare you for the courtroom so you are ready to face the defendant.

Schools and Universities

Many victims of sexual abuse report being abused by a teacher at school, a professor or faculty member at a college or university. In some cases, victims do not realize they are victims until years later. Many are groomed by their abusers to believe the relationship is mutual. If a teacher or professor abused you, we may be able to sue the school or university they worked for.

Religious Organizations and Churches

Many other victims report experiencing sexual abuse at the hands of church or religious leaders. In that case, you may also sue the church or religious organization behind the abuser. In many cases, we discover that the church or religious organization actively tried to cover up the abuse rather than report it to the authorities. It is also not unusual for other victims to come forward with claims of abuse from the same abuser.

FAQs About Civil Lawsuits for Sexual Abuse in State College

Am I Allowed to File a Civil Lawsuit for Sexual Abuse in State College?

Yes. Although many victims might feel that their only option for justice is a criminal trial, this is not quite true. You can sue the person or people responsible for the abuse regardless of what does or does not happen in criminal court.

Who Can I Sue for Sexual Abuse?

You may sue anyone you believe is responsible for the abuse, as long as you have evidence to support your claims. You may sue one person, multiple people, or an organization or institution, such as a school or church.

What Kind of Evidence is Important in a Civil Sexual Abuse Case?

Any evidence may be useful, but many sexual abuse cases revolve around testimony. More specifically, the victim’s testimony is key to the case. Often, other evidence that might have existed is gone because the plaintiff waited a long time to come forward about the abuse. As such, their testimony may be the most crucial evidence in the case.

What Damages Can I Include in My Sex Abuse Case in State College?

You may include damages for the economic costs you incurred because of the abuse and non-economic damages revolving around emotional distress, pain, humiliation, and psychological injuries. Depending on your circumstances, you may also claim punitive damages, although these are rarely awarded and more difficult to prove.

When Should I Hire a Lawyer to Help Me Sue for Sexual Abuse?

The sooner you contact a lawyer for help, the better. Although many victims of sexual abuse do not come forward with their claims for years, it may still be possible to successfully sue those responsible. However, it is best to contact the authorities and a lawyer shortly after the abuse first occurs, if you are able to do so.

Can I Take a Settlement for Sexual Abuse?

Yes. Settlements are common in civil lawsuits, including those for sexual abuse. If you are offered what appears to be a generous settlement, do not accept it without reviewing it with your lawyer. You are also free to reject a settlement, no matter how generous it seems, to pursue justice through a trial.

Will the Defendant in a Civil Sexual Abuse Case Be Criminally Charged?

Maybe. Criminal and civil proceedings are entirely separate, so your civil lawsuit might not directly lead to criminal charges. However, if we uncover enough evidence to prove that the defendant sexually abused you, the authorities might take notice and arrest them. This does not always happen, but it is possible.

Can I Sue for Sexual Abuse if it Happened Many Years Ago?

Yes. Many victims of sexual abuse cannot come forward with their claims for years. Victims of childhood abuse often wait until middle age to initiate legal action. While the statute of limitations for many sexual abuse claims is long, it is not indefinite. Talk to a lawyer about whether you can still file a claim.

Will Other People Know That I am Suing for Sexual Abuse?

Possibly. Information about civil lawsuits is often publicly available, and people in your community may find out that you were victimized and are now taking legal action. This is a concern for many victims who would rather remain private. Unfortunately, going public with your claims may be a necessary step in your case.

Receive Legal Help Now from Our Lawyers for Victims of Sexual Abuse in State College

Get a free, confidential review of your case from our lawyers for victims of sexual abuse by calling The Law Office of Andrew Shubin at (814) 826-3586.