Birmingham Sexual Abuse & Misconduct Attorney
Sexual activity is something that requires consent by all the parties involved. However, many people are victimized by perpetrators looking to take advantage of them. People of all ages can be a victim of sexual abuse, from toddlers forced to appear in child porn videos to elderly patients in nursing homes who are mentally and physically incapacitated.
Men, women, and children can be victims of sexual misconduct, and when they are, the healing process takes a long time. Some people never recover from the physical and psychological harm they endure. Contact our experienced Birmingham sexual abuse & misconduct attorneys for more information or assistance.
What is Sexual Abuse?
Sexual abuse is often used interchangeably with rape, but there is a bit of difference. Sexual abuse encompasses a wide range of sex acts. It may include kissing, unwanted touching, groping, rubbing, and forcing a person to touch another. Sexual abuse can also include rape, which is defined as oral, anal, or vaginal penetration, without the victim’s consent. Sexual abuse can also include any other non-consensual sexual touching.
Where Does Sexual Abuse Occur?
Sexual abuse can occur virtually anywhere. Someone can approach a victim from anywhere and attempt to engage in sexual relations with them.
Sexual abuse can occur on a date with someone. Just because two people are on a date does not mean either is obligated to have sex with the other. Sexual abuse can occur at someone’s home or while at a party.
Sexual abuse is also common in medical facilities, particularly nursing homes. Elderly patients are often coerced into engaging in sexual acts. However, doctors, psychologists, nurses, and others in the medical field may prey upon patients as well.
Sexual abuse is often perpetrated by people in positions of trust. Teachers, coaches, police officers, pastors, and other respected members of a community often take advantage of vulnerable people and sexually abuse them.
Civil and Criminal Lawsuits
Sexual abuse is not only a crime but an action that can bring about damages. Because of this, anyone who sexually abuses another person can face both a criminal and civil lawsuit. Depending on the ages of the victim and perpetrator, the abuser can face felony charges punishable by decades in prison and thousands of dollars in fines.
A person who has suffered damages through sexual assault can also file a civil lawsuit against the abuser. There does not need to be a separate criminal case. In a civil case, the plaintiff has to prove that the perpetrator caused their injuries and that these injuries resulted in damages. The victim can recover compensation for medical expenses, psychological damages, pain and suffering, and more.
Contact a Birmingham Sexual Abuse/Sexual Misconduct Lawyer Today
When a person has been sexually abused or assaulted, they may suffer physical, emotional, and psychological scars. All can be very painful and last a long time.
If you have been victimized by sexual assault, seek legal help from the Birmingham personal injury lawyers at Goldasich, Vick & Fulk. We will help you pursue compensation from the perpetrator who caused your injuries. We are committed to fighting for justice. Call (205) 731-2566 to schedule a free consultation.
