Personal Injury Lawyers Protecting the Rights of Abused Children
Some of the most heinous crimes in society are those perpetrated against children in acts of sexual abuse. Many psychological studies have shown that the effects of sexual abuse in children reaches long into a victim’s adult life. According to the American Counseling Association, many people have experienced sexual abuse and it is likely that many adult persons that seek out counseling have a history of sexual abuse. Sexual abuse takes many different forms depending on the frequency, the circumstances, and the relationship of the perpetrator to the victim. It can include physical harm or psychological harm. Neglect occurs when a parent or institution does not intervene on behalf of a child that is being exploited by an abuser. The experience of sexual abuse is traumatizing, and it often hinders the social growth and development of a child.
Childhood sexual abuse is linked with a multitude of adult manifestations such as:
- Eating disorders, anxiety, depression, guilt, relationship issues, body image dysmorphia, anger, gynecological problems, gastrointestinal disorders, self-mutilation, and others.
Helping Victims of Sexual Abuse Heal and Recover
The perpetrator of a sexual crime against a child may be prosecuted and punished in a criminal court of law for their actions. However, this does not provide compensation for the healing and recovery of the victim. A personal injury lawsuit can compensate survivors for the treatment of physical and emotional consequences of sexual abuse. Often, the perpetrator is a person in a position of authority in schools, religious institutions, daycare facilities, health care workers, organizations for children’s sports and extracurricular activities, or residential care facilities. An employer that failed to properly screen or monitor the behavior of its employees can be found liable for negligence. An adult that was victimized as a child may not be able to consistently work due to the trauma they experienced and may need ongoing therapy and financial support throughout their adult life. The victim of a crime should not have to bear the expense of treatment.
Improper Treatment of Children Effects Individuals and Families
At Ogle Law, we are personal injury attorneys that can file a civil claim against an individual, institution, or entity that has been negligent by ignoring or covering up the crime of sexual abuse against children. Our law firm can bring justice for the families who entrusted others with the care and safety of their children. By holding these organizations or entities accountable, we are sending a message to our community that our children must be kept safe. Our firm has a history of successful settlements and awards from jury trials for victims of sexual abuse.
Get in Touch with a Personal Injury and Negligence Lawyer in Gainesville
Attorney William Ogle is a National Board-Certified Trial Specialist since 1992, which acknowledges his excellence in the presentation of cases in court and expert knowledge of trial law. The improper treatment of children is a distressing topic and it affects the entire family system in all cultural, racial, and economic groups. If you were a victim of child abuse, you deserve justice and compensation to help you move forward. Compensation for treatment can help you regain your sense of trust and safety. Ogle Law can be contacted in our Daytona Beach or Gainesville, Florida offices at (386) 253-2500.