Sexual Assault Lawyer in Halifax
Sexual abuse and sexual assaults have profound physical and psychological effects, and it can often take years or decades for a survivor to come forward. These injuries dramatically alter the life of the victim. As most abusers are family, friends, or individuals in a position of authority it can often take years or decades for a survivor to come forward. A sexual abuse claim can never fully remedy the abuse a victim has endured. But compensation does help survivors move forward. In many cases, sexual abuse claims include damages based upon pain and suffering, loss of income, physical and psychological care, and valuable services. Commencing a sexual abuse claim can be overwhelming. At Wagners, we are here to provide you with the compassion, guidance, and advocacy you need to navigate this type of claim. If you’re the victim of a sexual assault, our team will provide the support, guidance, and advocacy you need. And we’ll work hard to get you the compensation you deserve.
Legal Help for Sexual Abuse and Sexual Assault
At Wagners, we understand that as a survivor of sexual abuse or assault, discussing your experience with anyone can be extremely difficult. When you share your experience with us, we promise to help you understand your legal options, hold the other party liable, and fight for your right to receive fair and full compensation for all your injuries.
Filing criminal charges: You may consider pursuing a criminal charge against your assailant. Should you choose to take this option, you may not receive any monetary compensation if your assailant is found guilty. Investigations will be done, and an arrest will be made if enough evidence is found against the accused. The defendant could face punishment such as imprisonment if found guilty.
A civil lawsuit: On the other hand, victims of sexual assault and abuse may also consider filing a claim against their assailant or the institution that hired them in a civil court. Unlike criminal charges, civil action may result in a settlement which is given to the victim to help them recover from the abuse or assault they endured.
A class action suit: In this type of lawsuit, a claim is filed by a group of individuals who have been injured (in this case sexually abused or assaulted), by the same defendant. The survivors may collectively file this class-action lawsuit against the individual or institution liable for the assault or abuse.
With the help of an experienced sexual abuse lawyer, you’ll better understand which direction to take depending on the circumstances of your case.
Compensation in Sexual Assault Cases
At Wagners, we acknowledge that no amount of money can take away the pain that comes with enduring sexual assault and abuse. However, there’s so much good that can come from successfully resolving sexual abuse claims. Survivors can receive the financial assistance they need to begin rebuilding their lives and seek the medical care they need. By holding your assailant or abuser accountable, it not only restores your dignity but also encourages other victims to come out and seek justice.
After filing a sexual assault claim, you may be entitled to recover compensation for:
- Medical costs
- Lost wages
- Loss of support
- Mental health counselling and therapy
- Other financial losses such as unfinished education or lost job prospects
- Emotional and psychological distress
There are different factors considered when determining how much compensation you deserve for your sexual assault claim. The amount of compensation you receive will depend on:
- How the assault or abuse has affected your ability to generate income and support yourself
- The kind of treatment you have sought or you’re currently undergoing as a result of the abuse or assault
- The personal circumstances of your case e.g. your family life
We understand that assault and abuse are terrible experiences and survivors have a huge burden that they carry for the rest of their lives. We’re here to provide the legal help you need to ensure you get the financial burden off your shoulders and begin rebuilding your life. Our goal is to put up a strong defence and help you fight for justice. You deserve a brighter future and pursuing a sexual assault claim with the help of an experienced lawyer can help you achieve this.
Is There a Time Limit on Sexual Assault Claims?
Today, there is no time limit for filing sexual abuse and assault claims in Halifax. Even though the time limit was removed completely, you shouldn’t wait too long to take legal action against your abuser or assailant.
Waiting too long to file a claim can hinder your chances of getting a positive outcome. Overtime, meaningful evidence to support your claim may be lost, destroyed, or even altered. You may miss out on critical witness statements as some may be hard to trace, pass away or their memories may fade.
If you need help to understand your legal options, we’re here for you. We provide a safe and confidential environment for survivors of sexual abuse and assault to come forward and get the justice they deserve. Once you speak to an understanding member of our team, you’ll feel encouraged and know that you have an experienced and qualified advocate by your side.
Contact our Experienced Halifax Sexual Assault Lawyers
If you believe you’ve been sexually harassed, take the first step towards getting justice by reaching out to our lawyers. We will evaluate your case and advise you on your options. The team at Wagners is compassionate, passionate, and qualified to provide you with all the information you need to make the best choice for yourself. Whether you want to bring a civil action against your assailant or the institution that is liable for your harassment, we’ll help you every step of the way. We will take time to understand your case and give sound legal advice that secures the most favorable settlement at the negotiating table. Reach out to an experienced personal injury lawyer in Halifax – Wagners Law Firm today. We offer a no-obligation and completely confidential consultation service to all survivors of sexual harassment, abuse and assault. Let us help you fight for justice.