Sexual abuse is a harrowing experience that can often lead to repressed memories, especially if it occurs during childhood. The brain is always seeking to protect the body, and as a survival mechanism, it can block troubling memories for years. Often, survivors of childhood sexual abuse won’t realize it until well into their adult years.
When the realization comes to you, it can be very troubling as not only do you have to confront your past, but there aren’t many resources to turn to. Do you have any legal protections? Do you call the authorities? What is the statute of limitations in the state you live in? These are just some of the legal questions that spring to mind after revelations of childhood sexual abuse. And we haven’t even broached the personal challenges that come with the news.
The first thing to do is to call professionals, both legal and mental. A mental health professional can help you sort through the turbulent emotions and give practical advice to cope and move forward. A personal injuries attorney will handle all legal inquiries for you and help you receive financial compensation for your suffering.
This article will examine what a personal injuries attorney can do for you to take some of the weight off your shoulders.
Investigate and explain the laws of your state.
Because of the time passed between the crime committed and it being reported, taking your case up the legal ladder can be confusing. This isn’t helped by the significant differences between state laws regarding sexual abuse. A personal injuries attorney will sort through the legal terminologies and explain what actions you could take.
Inform you of new laws and class action lawsuits.
The unfortunate reality of institutionalized child abuse has led to a growth of class action lawsuits against institutions like the church, public schools, The Boys and Girls Club, and more. Additionally, it has forced states to update their laws and legal windows to ensure the guilty can be punished and the victims can have some closure. A personal injuries attorney will research and update you on any class action lawsuits you might qualify for. They will also keep you up to date on any changes to your state’s laws that can aid you in your chase for justice.
Provide you privacy and confidentiality.
A personal injuries lawyer has the obligation of lawyer-client confidentiality to keep your privacy intact during these trying times. Additionally, a good lawyer will keep your information private throughout the legal process, so the fear of exposure that prevents many from taking action can be lessened.
A personal injuries attorney can help you get closure.
You don’t have to hold your trauma in. Seeking counseling and a support group can help you deal with the emotional confusion sexual abuse brings. A personal injuries lawyer can help make those responsible be held accountable, and hopefully, never be allowed to commit these atrocities again.
