Sexual Abuse Attorneys In Allentown, PA: Advocating for Survivors Of Sex Crimes

How Can Our Allentown Sexual Abuse Lawyers Assist You

We specialize in providing dedicated and experienced legal representation for survivors of sexual abuse in Allentown, PA. Our attorneys understand the immense pain and trauma that survivors endure, and we are committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive legal support to help you reclaim your life.

With years of experience in handling sexual abuse cases, our team of attorneys has the knowledge and experience to navigate the complex legal system and ensure that your voice is heard. We are passionate about advocating for survivors and will work tirelessly to hold abusers accountable and secure the compensation you deserve.

Guy D'Andrea, Esq.

Sexual Assault Lawyer

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Do Survivors Of Sex Crimes Have Legal Rights?

Our approach is centered on empathy, understanding, and discretion. We know that speaking up about sexual abuse can be incredibly difficult, and we will treat you with the utmost respect and sensitivity at every step of the process. As your trusted legal partners, we will be by your side, providing guidance, support, and the highest quality representation.

Understanding Sexual Abuse In Pennsylvania

Sexual abuse can take many forms, including but not limited to:

• Child sexual abuse
• Rape
• Sexual assault
• Sexual harassment
• Sexual exploitation
• Non-consensual sharing of intimate images or "revenge porn"
• Non-consensual sexual intercourse with an adult or minor

These experiences can have profound and long-lasting effects on survivors' lives, including physical, emotional, and psychological harm. Our sexual abuse attorneys in Pennsylvania are committed to holding those responsible for these heinous acts accountable and pursuing justice on your behalf.

hal.smith, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Our Legal Services for Survivors of Sexual Assault

Our sexual abuse law firm in Pennsylvania can provide a wide range of legal services for survivors of abuse. These services are designed to help victims navigate the legal system, hold abusers accountable, and obtain the compensation they deserve. Some of the key legal services provided by a sexual abuse law firm in Pennsylvania include:

Case Evaluation and Consultation

During the initial consultation, our assault lawyers will listen to your story in a safe and confidential environment. Our attorneys will assess the merits of your civil case, help you understand your legal options, and recommend the best course of action based on your unique circumstances.

Investigation and Evidence Gathering

Our sexual assault attorneys will conduct a thorough investigation of your case, gathering crucial evidence to build a strong foundation for your claim. This process may involve interviewing witnesses, obtaining medical records, and working with experts in fields such as psychology, forensics, and medicine.

Legal Strategy and Representation

Based on the facts of your case, our team of abuse attorneys will develop a comprehensive legal strategy tailored to your specific needs. This may include filing a civil lawsuit, pursuing a criminal case against the abuser, or negotiating with insurance companies. The attorney will represent you throughout the legal process, whether in court, during settlement negotiations, or in mediation.

Securing Compensation

Our Pennsylvania sexual assault lawyers will work diligently to secure the compensation you deserve as a survivor of sexual abuse. This may include damages for medical expenses, therapy costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and more. The goal is to help you recover financially and emotionally so you can move forward with your life.

Guidance and Support

Throughout the legal process, our law firm will provide guidance and support to help you cope with the challenges you face. They will ensure that you understand your rights, the legal procedures, and the potential outcomes of your assault case. By providing compassionate and empathetic assistance, the law firm aims to make the process less daunting for survivors of sexual abuse.

Advocacy for Legal Reform

In addition to representing individual clients, some sexual abuse law firms in Pennsylvania may also advocate for legal reforms to better protect survivors and prevent future abuse. This may involve working with legislators, participating in public awareness campaigns, or supporting nonprofit organizations dedicated to the cause.

In summary, our sexual abuse law firm in Pennsylvania can provide a comprehensive range of legal services designed to support and advocate for survivors of sex crimes in Pennsylvania. These services can help survivors navigate the complex legal system, obtain justice, and secure the compensation fund they need to rebuild their lives.

Penalties For Sexual Abuse in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, the penalties for sexual abuse depend on the severity of the sex crime charges and the circumstances surrounding the offense. The following are some examples of the penalties that can be imposed for sexual abuse in Pennsylvania:

• Rape: Rape is a felony of the first degree in Pennsylvania. The penalty for rape can include up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000.
• Sexual Assault: Sexual assault is also a felony in Pennsylvania, and the penalties can range from 5 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000.
• Statutory Sexual Assault: Statutory sexual assault occurs when the victim is under the age of 16 and the perpetrator is at least four years older than the victim. This is also a felony in Pennsylvania, and the penalties can include up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000.
• Indecent Assault: Indecent assault is a misdemeanor in Pennsylvania, and the penalties can include up to two years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.
• Aggravated Indecent Assault: Aggravated indecent assault is a felony in Pennsylvania, and the penalties can include up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000.

It's important to note that these penalties are subject to change, and the specific penalties imposed in a particular case can vary depending on the unique circumstances of the offense and the offender's criminal history.

In addition to criminal penalties, individuals who are convicted of sexual abuse in Pennsylvania may also be required to register as a sex offender, which can have serious and long-lasting consequences for their personal and professional lives. Survivors of sexual abuse can also pursue civil lawsuits against their abusers, which can result in financial compensation for the damages they have suffered if a conviction occurs.

What Are The Statute Of Limitations In PA For Reporting Sexual Abuse Or Assault?

For criminal charges, the statute of limitations for sexual abuse claims is as follows:

• For rape, the statute of limitations is 12 years from the date of the offense.
• For sexual assault, the statute of limitations is 12 years from the date of the offense.
• For statutory sexual assault, the statute of limitations is 12 years from the date of the offense or until the victim turns 50 years old, whichever is later.
• For indecent assault, the statute of limitations is 12 years from the date of the offense or until the victim turns 50 years old, whichever is later.

For civil lawsuits, the statute of limitations for sexual abuse or assault is as follows:

• For childhood sexual abuse, the statute of limitations has been extended under Pennsylvania law. Survivors of child sexual abuse have until the age of 55 to file a civil lawsuit against their abuser or any institution that may have enabled or covered up the abuse. This extension was made possible by the passage of the Child Victims Act in 2019.
• For adult sexual assault or abuse, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the offense.

It's important to note that the statute of limitations can be complex, and there may be exceptions or extensions depending on the specific circumstances of your case. If you have questions about the statute of limitations for reporting sexual abuse or assault in Pennsylvania, it's important to contact an attorney as soon as possible who can provide you with the guidance you need.

Local Resources and Assistance for Sexual Abuse Survivors in Allentown, Pennsylvania

Survivors of sexual abuse have access to various local resources and assistance services that offer support, counseling, and advocacy. These organizations can help survivors heal and move forward with their lives. Some key resources in the Allentown area include:

Crime Victims Council of the Lehigh Valley

The Crime Victims Council of the Lehigh Valley provides free and confidential support to victims of crime, including survivors of sexual abuse. Their services include a 24-hour crisis hotline, counseling, support groups, and assistance with navigating the criminal justice system. They also offer prevention education programs and community outreach initiatives.

Website: https://cvclv.org/

Turning Point of Lehigh Valley

Turning Point of Lehigh Valley is a non-profit organization that offers support to victims of domestic and sexual violence. They provide emergency shelter, counseling services, legal advocacy, and a 24-hour helpline. Their services are free, confidential, and available to all genders.

Website: https://www.turningpointlv.org/

The Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape (PCAR)

PCAR works to eliminate all forms of sexual violence and advocate for the rights and needs of sexual assault survivors. While not based in Allentown, PCAR partners with a network of rape crisis centers across the state of Pennsylvania. They offer information on local resources, education, and training for professionals and community members.

Website: https://www.pcar.org/

Allentown Police Department Victim Services

The Allentown Police Department's Victim Services program offers support and assistance to crime victims, including survivors of sexual abuse. They can help with filing protection orders, obtaining compensation through the Pennsylvania Victims Compensation Assistance Program, and connecting survivors with other local resources and support services.

Website: https://www.allentownpa.gov/Police/Victim-Services/

Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) Forensic Medicine Program

The LVHN Forensic Medicine Program provides compassionate medical care and evidence collection for survivors of sexual assault. Their team of trained professionals includes Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs) who offer comprehensive care in a safe and supportive environment.

Website: https://www.lvhn.org/medical-services/forensic-medicine/

Schedule Your Free Consultation In PA - Contact Us

If you or someone you love has been a victim of sexual abuse, it's important to take action as soon as possible. The longer you wait to take legal action, the harder it may be to recover the compensation you deserve.

We are dedicated to helping survivors of sexual abuse recover the compensation they deserve for their injuries. Our Allentown sex crimes attorneys offer free, confidential consultations for victims who have been sexually abused. Contact us today to learn how to file a lawsuit against the offender.

Our Erie sexual abuse attorneys can also be of assistance if you happen to be located Erie County.