Tampa Sexual Assault Lawyers Filing Lawsuits For Victims

Tampa Sexual Abuse Victims Lawyer

Sex assault is one of the most traumatic experiences someone can experience and it is a growing problem. If you or someone you love is a survivor of sex abuse, you may be wondering about your legal options.

• How will I pay for my sex assault medical bills?
• Will I be able to recover lost wages after my sexual abuse?
• Will the person responsible be prosecuted?
• Should I hire a sex abuse lawyer?

Talking with an experienced sexual assault attorney in Tampa can help put your mind at ease and guide you through the justice system.

Mike Haggard, Esq.

Sexual Abuse Attorney

The Haggard Law Firm

330 Alhambra Cir.,
Coral Gables, FL 33134

What Is Sexual Assault in Tampa?

• Touching or fondling of a sexual nature
• Exposing a minor to sexual activity
• Sexual Assault
• Indecent exposure
• Attempted rape or rape

In many cases, there is a person or organization whose negligence contributed to the attack.

Child Sexual Assault in Tampa

Unfortunately, many places we are taught to be safe, such as school, daycare, or sports activity, are common places for sexual assault predators to seek out victims. They look to seek positions of authority and at times they can be alone working with vulnerable groups.

Negligence Leading to Sex Abuse

Owners have a duty to provide a safe place for employees and patrons. In many cases of sexual abuse, an organization has failed to take the proper measures, this includes:

• Failure of background checks
• Failure to prevent a known abuse of having interaction with children or other victims
• Failure to provide security measures including proper lighting and staffing

Filing a Sexual Assault Lawsuit: Hiring a Tampa Sex Assault Lawyer

After being sexually abused, there can be long-lasting emotional and physical pain. As soon as the event happens, you should report it to the police. Contacting an experienced sexual abuse attorney should follow quickly.

Working with a sex assault attorney can kick-start the healing process for you or your loved one, taking the pressure of navigating the legal system off you letting you focus on healing.

Tampa Sexual Abuse Laws

Navigating the justice system can be intimidating for victims of sexual abuse. The criminal and civil systems are separate and tried under different rules. This is where an experienced Tampa sexual abuse lawyer will come in to examine your case and provide more information on the process.

Statute of Limitations in Tampa, Florida

A statute of limitations is the time limit a plaintiff has to initiate legal claims from the date of the alleged offense. When it comes to civil law, the statute of limitations may vary, filing a sexual abuse lawsuit within Florida has the following deadlines:

• Sexual battery with a minor under 16 years old - no statute of limitations
• For other forms of abuse for victims under 18 - 7 years after the victim reaches 18
• If the victim was a dependent of the abuser - 4 years after leaving the abuser regardless of age
• In instances such as repressed memories delaying the discovery of abuse, the victim has 4 years after the discovery of the injuries. This can be more than 4 years after the abuse has ended.

Your sexual abuse attorney will be able to assist you with the specifics of your claim. Contact our team of sexual assault lawyers today for your free, confidential case evaluation.