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Connecticut Sexual Abuse and Assault Attorney: Trusted Hartford Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Paul Slager CT Sex Abuse Lawyer
Paul Slager - Hartford, CT Abuse Guardian
Hi - I’m Paul. I am an experienced lawyer practicing in Connecticut. I have a passion for handling complex cases and representing sex abuse victims. I hope to make a difference with the cases my team and I represent and we look forward to helping you.
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Representing Survivors of Sexual Misconduct in Hartford, Connecticut

Abuse Guardians, an influential national network of attorneys committed to advocating for survivors of sexual abuse, is delighted to announce the appointment of Paul Slager, a distinguished legal expert from Silver Golub & Teitell, as the designated Abuse Guardian for the state of Connecticut. This appointment stands as a testament to Paul Slager's remarkable skills, unwavering dedication, and extensive history of defending the rights of survivors.

Central to the mission of Abuse Guardians is an exceptional coalition of legal professionals who have come together with a shared purpose – providing specialized representation for survivors of sexual abuse. Via a thorough and meticulous selection process, the organization ensures that only the most empathetic and dedicated attorneys are welcomed into its fold. The selection committee of Abuse Guardians rigorously evaluates each candidate, closely examining their track record, legal proficiency, and demonstrated commitment to pursuing justice on behalf of survivors. Through this comprehensive evaluation, Abuse Guardians guarantees that survivors in need receive the highest level of legal representation and steadfast support, underscoring the organization's core values.

"Our alliance has over 15 sexual abuse lawyers nationwide dedicated to helping survivors get justice" 
- Paul Slager

Meet Our Experienced Sexual Abuse Attorney

Paul Slager, Esq.

Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Silver Golub & Teitell

One Landmark Square
15th Floor
Stamford, CT 06901

 

Our Law Firm Defends Victims of Sexual Assault in Hartford, CT

Sexual abusers, perpetrators, and the organizations that enable them must be held accountable for their callousness. If your family has recently been affected by a sexual crime, you may be concerned with several questions:

  • How long will the person responsible be incarcerated?
  • Can we sue the organization for covering up or failing to prevent the abuse?
  • How can a civil sexual abuse lawsuit help our family?

Our Connecticut sexual abuse victims' rights lawyers understand the pain your family is dealing with. We want to help you find justice. Schedule your free consultation today.

Sexual crimes are prosecuted using combinations of nine different Connecticut laws. Most of these laws include both cases of child sexual abuse and sexual assault committed against adults, but the penalties may vary depending on the unique circumstances of each crime. We’ve summarized Connecticut states sexual assault and abuse laws in the section below.

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Experienced Sexual Abuse and Assault Attorneys

If you or a loved one has recently suffered as a sexual abuse victim of a traumatic incident in Connecticut, it’s paramount to understand your rights and to contact a sexual abuse attorney that can help you. From Hartford and Waterbury to Middletown and New Haven, Connecticut's criminal justice system will handle the criminal charges and process of prosecuting your abuser. Still, for many sexual assault victims, this is only part of the puzzle.

Survivors of such crimes often need to turn to civil courts in order to file a civil claim and get the full support they need during recovery. Our experienced Connecticut sexual abuse lawyer and sexual assault attorney team at our prominent law firm are here to help survivors assert their legal rights. They can guide you in filing an abuse claim and recover financial compensation for damages related to the unwanted sexual act, including medical bills, therapy, lost wages, and more.

For many victims of sexual abuse, there are resources available in Connecticut that can provide assistance. To find a rape crisis center in your area and be connected to 24-hour counseling, legal advocacy, and other services, visit the Connecticut Alliance to End Sexual Violence today.

Through the Connecticut Alliance to End Sexual Violence, nine individual rape crisis centers have joined forces to ensure that every victim of sexual abuse receives the highest-quality crisis intervention services.

If you've been sexually abused or are a victim of sexual assault in Connecticut, contact us for answers to your questions and concerns. Our dedicated sex abuse lawyers are ready to assist you. Schedule a free and confidential consultation with our Connecticut child molestation lawyers today to discuss your personal injury and childhood sexual abuse case.

Signs Of Sex Abuse & Assault - From Victims Of Sexual Abuse in Connecticut

It's essential to approach the topic of sexual abuse with sensitivity and care. The signs of sexual abuse can be physical, behavioral, or emotional. While the specific context of your question focuses on Hartford, CT, the signs of sexual abuse are generally universal and not confined to a particular location. Here are some common signs:

Physical Signs:

  1. Unexplained bruises, bleeding, or injuries, especially in the genital area.
  2. Frequent urinary or yeast infections.
  3. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
  4. Trouble walking or sitting.
  5. Bedwetting, especially if the child had previously outgrown it.
  6. Pregnancy, especially in young adolescents.

Behavioral Signs:

  1. Changes in hygiene habits, such as refusing to bathe or bathing excessively.
  2. Regression to younger behaviors (e.g., thumb-sucking, excessive crying).
  3. Sleep disturbances, nightmares, or fear of bedtime.
  4. Drawings or play that's sexually explicit or mimics specific acts.
  5. An unusual interest in or knowledge of sexual matters, expressing affection in ways inappropriate for a child's age.
  6. Fear of a specific person or place.
  7. Running away from home.
  8. Sudden changes in school performance or attendance.
  9. Risky behaviors in older children and adolescents, such as drug use or prostitution.

Emotional Signs:

  1. Sudden mood swings: rage, fear, insecurity, or withdrawal.
  2. Appearing withdrawn or depressed.
  3. Loss of appetite or changes in eating habits.
  4. Suicidal thoughts or actions.
  5. Feelings of shame or guilt, especially when discussing their bodies or sexuality.

If you suspect someone in Hartford, CT, or anywhere else, is showing signs of sexual abuse, it's crucial to approach the situation with care. Avoid leading questions, offer a safe environment for the person to share, and consider reaching out to local professionals, law enforcement, or child protective services for guidance.

Remember, every individual is unique, and not everyone who displays one or more of these signs has been sexually abused. Always approach situations with caution, understanding, and the aim to support the person involved.

Statute Of Limitations For Sexual Abuse in Connecticut - Consult With A Sex Abuse Lawyer Today

"In Connecticut, the criminal statute of limitations for sexual assault depends on the particular crime charged, the victim’s age, and whether there is DNA evidence. The civil statute of limitations depends on the victim’s age, and in some cases, whether the offender was convicted of criminal sexual assault."

Connecticut Child Sexual Abuse and Sexual Assault Distinctions

First Degree Sexual Assault

In the state of Connecticut, someone can be found guilty of first-degree sexual assault if he or she forces another person to engage in sexual intercourse through violence, threats, and other forms of coercion. These charges also apply when the victim is under 13 years old and the actor is more than two years older than the victim, when two or more other people are present during the act, and when the victim is mentally incapacitated and cannot consent to the sexual activity.

First-degree sexual assault can either be a Class A or Class B felony. Class A felonies are reserved for especially heinous crimes involving a victim under age 16 and the use of violence or threats of violence, or when the victim is under 13 and the offender is more than two years older. A Class B felony is punishable by 1-20 years in prison and up to a $15,000 fine, while a Class a felony is punishable by 25-60 years in prison and a maximum fine of $20,000.

Aggravated Sexual Assault – First Degree

A person can be charged and found guilty of aggravated sexual assault in the first degree if he or she commits first-degree sexual assault involving one or more of the following conditions:

  • The offender is armed with and threatens to use a deadly weapon during the crime
  • The offender intentionally disfigures or permanently disables the victim
  • The offender puts the victim’s life in danger
  • The offender is aided by two or more other people during the crime.

Aggravated sexual assault in the first degree can be either a Class A felony (25-60 years in prison; up to a $20,000 fine) or a Class B felony (1-20 years in prison; up to $15,000 fine) depending on the circumstances surrounding the crime.

Aggravated Sexual Assault Of A Minor

Aggravated sexual assault of a minor charges apply if an offender commits sexual assault against a victim who is under 13 years old, and one or more of the following conditions apply:

  • The offender kidnapped or illegally restrained the victim
  • The offender stalked the victim
  • The offender used violence to commit the sexual offense
  • The offender caused physical injuries or disfigurement to the victim
  • There were multiple victims under 13 years old
  • The offender was not known to the victim
  • The offender had previously been convicted of a violent sexual assault

This crime is a Class A felony punishable by a mandatory sentence of 25 years on a first offense and 50 years for any subsequent offense. These sentences are not eligible to be suspended or reduced by the court.

Second Degree Sexual Assault

A person can be convicted of sexual assault in the second degree for several different types of sexual offenses. This charge can be enforced on a statutory basis if one of the people involved in the sexual activity is younger than the age of consent, even if that person willingly engaged in the activity. A person may be found guilty of second-degree sexual assault if he or she has sex with another person and one or more of these conditions apply:

  • The other person is between 13-15 years old, and the actor is more than three years older.
  • The other person is impaired because of mental instability or disease, which makes them unable to consent.
  • The other person is physically helpless.
  • The other person is younger than 18 years old, and the actor is their guardian or responsible for their supervision.
  • The other person is in custody of law enforcement or detained at a hospital or other institution, and the actor is in a position of authority.
  • The actor is a psychotherapist, and the other person is their patient
  • The actor is a healthcare professional who fraudulently claims the sexual activity is for medical reasons
  • The actor is a school employee, and the other person is a student
  • The actor is an athletic coach who instructs the other person

Second-degree sexual assault can either be a Class B (1-20 years in prison; $15,000 maximum fine) or a Class C felony (1-10 years; $10,000 max fine), which depends on the circumstances of the case. If the victim is under 16 years old, the charge will be brought as a Class B felony.

Third Degree Sexual Assault

Sexual assault in the third-degree charges applies to offenses where one person uses force or the threat of force to compel another person to engage in any form of sexual contact. This crime is a Class D felony (1-5 years in prison; maximum fine of $5,000) or a Class C felony (1-10 years in prison; maximum fine of $10,000) if the victim is under 16 years old.

Fourth Degree Sexual Assault

Someone can be found guilty of sexual assault in the fourth degree for incidents of sexual activity involving the following circumstances:

  • The child sex abuse victim is under 13 years old, and the offender is more than two years older
  • The victim is between 13-15 years old, and the offender is more than three years older
  • The victim is mentally incapacitated or impaired because of a mental disability or disease, which leaves them unable to consent.
  • The victim is physically helpless.
  • The victim is less than 18 years old, and the actor is their guardian or responsible for their welfare.
  • The victim is in the custody of law enforcement or detained in a hospital or other institution, and the actor has authority over them.
  • Sexual contact occurs without the other person’s consent
  • Sexual acts involving animals and dead bodies
  • The offender is a psychotherapist, and the victim is their patient
  • The offender is a healthcare professional who fraudulently claims the sexual contact is for medical purposes
  • The offender is a school employee, and the victim is a student enrolled at their school
  • The offender is an athletic coach, and the victim is one of his coaching subjects or under 18 years old
  • The actor is 20 years old or older, in a position of authority over the victim, and the victim is under 18 years old

Fourth-degree sexual assault can be classified as a Class A misdemeanor (up to 1 year in prison; maximum $2,000 fine) or, if the victim is under 16 years old, a Class D felony (1-5 years in prison, maximum fine of $5,000).

Schedule Your Free Consultation With Our Sexual Abuse Lawyers Today To Learn More

In the heart of Hartford, Connecticut, our team of dedicated sexual assault lawyers is committed to shining a light on the shadows of injustice. We understand the profound impact of trauma and the courage it takes to seek reparation. If you or someone you know in Hartford is in need of a compassionate advocate to navigate the complexities of the legal system, don't hesitate to reach out. Together, we can pave the way for healing, justice, and a brighter future.

What Can a Connecticut Sexual Abuse Lawyer Do For Survivors?

Connecticut sexual abuse lawyers are experienced advocates for survivors, working tirelessly on behalf of those who have been abused. They understand the complex nature of sexual assault and childhood sexual abuse cases, especially when involving institutions like clergy or large organizations. These lawyers connect with a national network of professionals, ensuring that every victim gets the attention and advocacy they deserve. If you or a loved one has been a victim, it's crucial to speak with a trusted legal expert. They can guide you through the process, from understanding the local laws in Connecticut to making a claim against the perpetrators or the institutions that may have failed to prevent the abuse.

Why is Hiring a Local Connecticut Lawyer Important for Sexual Abuse Cases?

Sexual abuse cases, especially those involving childhood incidents, can be very sensitive and require a deep understanding of both the emotional and legal aspects. A local Connecticut lawyer is not only familiar with state-specific laws related to sexual assault and consent but also understands the local institutions, centers, and organizations that might be involved. They can provide confidential consultation, ensuring that survivors feel safe and supported. With their extensive network and professional expertise, they can bring to light the key issues, hold responsible parties accountable, and advocate for the best possible outcome for the survivors.

How Do Connecticut Sexual Abuse Lawyers Advocate for Victims Against Large Institutions?

Many victims of sexual abuse face the daunting task of standing up against large institutions, be it religious groups, schools, or other organizations. Connecticut sexual abuse lawyers have decades of experience in handling such complex cases. They believe in the power of survivors' stories and work hard to ensure that these stories are heard. By connecting with a nationwide network of advocates and leveraging the latest news and statistics related to abuse, they can build a compelling case. Whether it's about coercion by individuals in positions of power or negligence by institutions, these lawyers are dedicated to making sure justice is served.

Are There Specific Centers or Resources Available for Sexual Abuse Survivors in Connecticut?

Yes, survivors of sexual abuse in Connecticut can find support from various centers and organizations dedicated to helping them heal and seek justice. The Connecticut Alliance to End Sexual Violence is one such organization, connecting survivors to rape crisis centers and offering 24-hour counseling, legal advocacy, and other essential services. It's crucial for survivors to know they are not alone, and many resources are available to assist them during their recovery journey.

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The content on this specific page is approved content by Paul Slager, Esq. Abuse Guardian is an alliance of attorneys across the United States who dedicate their professional careers to representing survivors of sexual abuse and helping them get justice. This website is to be considered ATTORNEY ADVERTISING. Past settlement and verdict values are no guarantee of similar future outcomes. Abuse Guardian is not a law firm. Abuse Guardian has a team of survivor advocates who can help connect sexual abuse survivors to members of the Abuse Guardian alliance for free legal consultations. By submitting a form on this page your information will be sent to Paul Slager, Esq. and his staff for evaluation. By submitting a form, you give permission for Paul Slager, Esq. and his law firm to communicate with you regarding your submission. Your information is strictly confidential and will not be sold to third parties. See our Terms of service for more information.

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