Delaware Sexual Abuse Lawyers Providing Help to Victims
Some of the most sensitive and complex cases handled by Hudson, Castle, & Inkell, LLC, deal with sexual abuse. It can be very difficult for the abused and their loved ones to hold wrongful parties accountable because of shame, intimidation, or the fear that they won’t be believed. But it is important for you to have the opportunity to seek justice against the individuals and organizations who wronged you or your family members. You don’t have to face it alone. Our compassionate attorneys can listen to the facts of your case and file a civil claim on your behalf. We know that monetary compensation does not take away the pain the abuse has caused, but it may bring relief from financial worries and can provide some validation and closure for victims. Contact our law firm today to set up a free initial consultation: (302) 428-8800.
Where Does Sexual Abuse Happen?
Sadly, sexual assault can occur almost anywhere to anyone. Victims, especially children, are often sexually abused by someone they know and trust. Abusers frequently hold positions of power and esteem, which gives them access to victims and makes it harder to bring allegations against them. Some examples may include:
- Professors, teachers, counselors, or other educational personnel
- Psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, dentists, doctors, or nurses
- Faith leaders, clergy members, youth group organizers, or others within religious organizations
- Politicians, law enforcement, or others holding positions of authority
- Managers or supervisors
- Nursing home or group home staff
These people, unfortunately, may often be able to avoid criminal consequences of their actions, or they may receive a punishment that is too lenient for their crimes, but you still can seek compensation within the civil justice system. The people and institutions we rely upon to care for our loved ones can also be held legally liable for failing to protect them from abuse. If a school, hospital, religious group, care home, or other organization does not perform due diligence when hiring staff or properly investigate allegations of abuse, then it could be held liable for the actions of that individual or individuals.
What Are Some Possible Signs of Sexual Abuse?
Oftentimes, victims of sexual abuse are hesitant to speak out because of shame, fear, or concerns that they won’t be believed. That is why it is important to be alert for any red flags that may signal that someone is suffering from sexual abuse, especially if that person is a vulnerable adult or a potential victim of childhood sexual abuse where they may be unable to protect themselves at all from the abuser. On their own, each one of these warning signs may not be indicative of anything occurring, but if you notice a loved one exhibiting several of these signs, then it’s possible they may be experiencing sexual abuse:
- Alcohol or substance abuse
- Avoiding certain places or individuals
- Changes in weight
- Developing mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety
- Dressing differently or developing body image issues
- Isolating or withdrawing socially
- Loss of appetite
- Mood swings
- Nightmares
- Refusing to be touched
- Self-harm or thoughts of self-harm
If you suspect that your loved one is a victim of sexual abuse, you may try to discuss the situation with them. Some individuals may be relieved that someone recognized their suffering and believed them, so they may talk about it. Others may deny the abuse occurred because they are fearful, ashamed, or in denial. In either case, you should attempt to make certain your loved one is removed from the situation where the abuse or suspected abuse is occurring. After you feel confident they are safe, you should contact local law enforcement to conduct an investigation and a counselor or therapist who specializes in helping victims of sexual abuse to provide therapy and support for the individual.
One important thing to remember is that if you or a loved one are going to pursue justice against an abuser, there exists a two-year statute of limitations on sexual abuse claims in Delaware. So it is important to contact a reputable lawyer as soon as you can to begin the proceedings. However, for child sexual abuse claims which occurred in 2007 or later, there is no limit on how long you have to file.
What Compensation Is Available to Victims of Sexual Abuse?
You are entitled to file a civil lawsuit against your abuser for damages regardless of whether your abuser was found guilty or not guilty. Sexual assault can cause long-lasting trauma for survivors, and you deserve to seek justice and financial compensation for the abuse you endured. You may have lost your job, experienced failed relationships, required medical treatment for your injuries, had to leave your community, and more, as a result of the sexual violence perpetrated against you. While financial restitution does not erase the suffering you’ve endured, it is one way of holding the abuser accountable. Some of the damages you may be compensated for include:
- Legal fees
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Lost wages
- Mental anguish
- Mental health counseling
- Medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Relocation costs
- Transportation costs to and from treatment
Why Should You Hire a Delaware Sexual Abuse Lawyer?
At Hudson, Castle, & Inkell, LLC, our injury law attorneys, have more than 50 combined years of experience in sexual abuse cases and work with a wide range of experts to prepare and present the strongest case. We have worked with victims across Delaware to hold their abusers accountable and bring them some closure. Bruce Hudson worked to spearhead the case against former pediatrician Dr. Earl Bradley, one of the most notorious pedophiles ever documented. The firm represented several hundred of the 1200 child victims identified, resulting in a settlement of more than $123 million in damages.
If you or someone you know has been sexually abused, Hudson, Castle, & Inkell, LLC can help you get justice. We understand that this can be a challenging and delicate subject, so we approach each case ethically and skillfully, starting with a confidential free consultation and continuing with the convenience of flexible appointments. We will not charge you unless we win or settle your case. Call Hudson, Castle, & Inkell, LLC today at (302) 428-8800 to set up your free initial consultation today.