Claims for Sexual Abuse of Children

Child sexual abuse takes many forms. Too often, organizations and institutions fail to protect children from harm that can last a lifetime. A victim of child sexual abuse deserves to be heard and receive compensation for the trauma they endured. 

At Mase Seitz Briggs, our attorneys fight to protect victims of abuse and neglect. We are staunch advocates for child abuse victims and work hard to get them the recovery they deserve after experiencing unimaginable harm. 

If you or a loved one has been the victim of child abuse, contact our office at (844) 627-3529. Our Miami child sexual abuse lawyers are here to help you hold the perpetrator and third parties accountable for their wrongdoing.

Sexual Abuse of Children

According to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), evidence is found or child protective services is able to substantiate a claim for child sexual abuse every 9 minutes. In a single year, there were approximately 57,329 childhood sex abuse victims. Child sexual abuse survivors include both men and women; however, it is more likely to happen to females.

Tragically, child sexual abuse is highly prevalent. Studies show that:

• One in nine girls under the age of 18 has experienced a form of sexual abuse or assault.
• The overwhelming majority (82%) of victims under the age of 18 are female.
• Compared to the general population, young women between the ages of 16 - 19 are four times more likely to be the victims of rape, attempted rape, or sexual assault.
• 34% of child sex abuse victims are under the age of 12.
• In 93% of child sexual abuse cases reported to law enforcement, the perpetrator is known to the victim.

If you were the victim of sexual assault as a child, you may be entitled to compensation. While we know it can be challenging to come forward, your story could prevent future abuse. Contact our Miami child sexual abuse lawyers today for a free consultation.

Long-Term Effects of Child Sexual Abuse

Childhood sexual abuse or assault can have lifelong consequences for a young victim. Survivors often feel shame and guilt over the incident and may not feel comfortable coming forward. Child sexual abuse victims are more prone to mental health disorders and substance use disorders and may have trouble holding a job or performing well in school.

According to RAINN, child sexual abuse victims are more likely to experience the following physical and mental health challenges:

• Survivors of childhood sexual abuse are about four times more likely to abuse drugs.
• Child sexual assault and abuse victims are four times more likely to experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as adults.
• Victims of childhood sexual abuse are around three times more likely to experience major depressive episodes as adults.

By filing a lawsuit against your abuser and any liable third parties, you may be able to receive compensation for your losses, including resources to help you access mental health or substance abuse treatment.

Helping Victims of Child Sex Abuse

It is not uncommon for victims of child sexual abuse to act aggressively, require ongoing therapy and counseling, or experience trust issues. These are serious consequences of sexual assault that are both costly and can have a lasting impact on the victim’s life. 

If you know a minor who has been sexually assaulted, you need an experienced Miami child sex abuse lawyer. Our lawyers are well-versed in the complex litigation that is required in these kinds of cases. 

Holding Responsible Parties Liable

To get compensation, the parents or guardians of the minor victim need to find a Miami child abuse lawyer who can help sue for damages. A victim over the age of 18 may file a lawsuit, but there are statutory limitations. Navigating these legal issues can be complicated, particularly when it comes to third-party liability. 

It is generally in your best interest to retain a Miami child sexual abuse lawyer as soon as possible. A knowledgeable attorney can help you file a claim against the perpetrator and those who aid and abet them, such as schools or religious organizations. 

While a person can be held criminally liable for the physical abuse, sexual abuse, or neglect of a child, a criminal conviction will rarely result in fair and full compensation for the victim. Contact our Miami child sex abuse lawyers to discuss your legal options for recovering damages.

Where Child Sexual Abuse Occurs and Who You Can Recover Against

Child sexual abuse and assault can occur in many different settings. If you or a loved one was the victim of child sex abuse, you need to determine if any company, business, organization, agency, or religious organization can be held responsible. Just as adults can recover financial compensation in personal injury lawsuits, victims of child sexual abuse can seek damages from those responsible.

Depending on the situation, legal action may be taken against organizations that facilitated the abuse, failed to take reasonable steps to protect the children in its care, or put the abuser in a position to commit this crime. 

In child sexual abuse cases, you may be able to hold liable:

• The perpetrator or abuser
• A school
• A church
• A college or university that the perpetrator is affiliated with
• A foster care organization or social service agency
• A government entity
• A daycare provider
• A camp or youth sports league
• Any third party that failed to provide a safe environment for children or knew that the abuse was going on and did not report it or take action.

Pursuing a Civil Lawsuit for Child Sexual Abuse

Victims of child abuse and childhood sexual assault should not go uncompensated for their emotional damages and physical injuries. Frequently, child victims can proceed anonymously as a “John or Jane Doe” to protect their privacy. These claims can, in many instances be resolved quickly and confidentially out of court with the right Miami child sexual abuse attorney.

If you or a loved one is a child sex abuse victim, you need to consult an experienced attorney immediately. There is a statute of limitations that applies to your claim, meaning you have to bring your claim within a certain time, or you could lose your right to pursue legal remedies.

Contact Mase Seitz Briggs for a Free Consultation

Our Miami child sexual abuse attorneys have the experience and resources to help victims seek the maximum compensation for their injuries against the organizations and institutions that allowed the abuse to occur. 

Contact our office at (844) 627-3529 for a free consultation. Let us help you get the compensation you deserve. No child should have to suffer from abuse or neglect.