Columbus Sexual Abuse Lawyer
When you’ve been sexually abused and the criminal justice system has let you down, empower yourself by getting help from a respected sexual abuse lawyer in Columbus.
Sexual abuse survivors don’t always get the justice they deserve in criminal court. But pursuing a personal injury claim could be a great way to not only take back control of your life, but to hold your abuser, and those who may have facilitated the abuse, accountable for their abhorrent actions.
A qualified Columbus sexual abuse lawyer at Rafidi, Pallante & Melewski LLC can help you throughout the claims process. If we are able to take on your case, we’ll thoroughly investigate all potential at-fault parties, gather the evidence needed to support your case, and prioritize your needs so you can begin to pick up the pieces of your life.
Civil Claims for Sexual Abuse in Columbus
Filing a civil lawsuit for sexual abuse in Columbus is much different than any criminal charges your abuser may be facing. In a criminal case, the state prosecuting attorney will bring criminal charges against your abuser and those who may have facilitated the abuse you endured.
The goal is a guilty verdict and an adequate sentence, such as fines, jail or prison time, and the requirement that they register as a sex offender.
But in civil court, it will be up to you and your Columbus sexual abuse attorney to file the lawsuit against your abuser. Here, you seek compensation for your suffering as opposed to criminal penalties.
Another difference between civil and criminal cases is the burden of proof. In criminal cases, the prosecutor must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the accused is, in fact, guilty. But in civil cases, the burden of proof is based on a preponderance of the evidence. This means that the evidence must show that the accused party is likely responsible for the abuse you suffered.
Compensating Survivors of Columbus Sexual Abuse
Although being awarded compensation for your suffering will do nothing to change what has happened to you, it can go a long way in helping you rebuild your life. You have the right to be made whole after being subjected to sexual abuse.
This means you can be awarded compensation for every single way your life has been negatively impacted by the abuse. Some of the different types of losses you may be able to seek in your civil claim include:
- Emotional distress
- Lost quality of life
- Pain and suffering
- Relocation costs
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Diminished earning capacity
- Reputational damage
- Loss of companionship and love
- Loss of household services
- Disfigurement or scarring
Get Help from a Sexual Abuse Lawyer in Columbus
If you would like to discuss your legal options for financial recovery with an experienced Columbus sexual abuse lawyer at Rafidi, Pallante & Melewski LLC, you can do so by giving our office a call at 1-866-494-5387. Alternatively, you can also submit the quick contact form included at the bottom of this page to schedule a free consultation.