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Victims of sexual assault and child sexual abuse often struggle with how to respond to the crime. You may be wondering about your rights as a victim in criminal or civil court:
Were you or a loved one sexually assaulted or sexually abused in West Virginia? Our dedicated civil lawyers are here to help. You are not alone, though it may feel that way at times. In reality, you have powerful legal options, including rights outside of the criminal justice system. If you were assaulted or abused, you may be eligible to pursue justice by filing a private civil lawsuit against the responsible parties.
Paul Bucci
Charleston, West Virginia
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For too long, sexual abuse has been causing pain to victims and their families. In some cases, the abuse has been covered up, or victims have been silenced. You have powerful legal options. By speaking out against the abuse, you can help protect future victims and help enact change.
Over the last few years, sexual assault within the church has surfaced. This abuse can be from a priest, member of the clergy or other members of the organization. The authority of a priest, and even the community of the church, can scare the victim from coming forward. We believe you. These crimes are heinous and the perpetrator should be held responsible. Call us today for a free case evaluation.
We see daycare as a safe place to enroll our children for early development. However, there have been recent claims of molestation in daycare, where the abuser takes advantage of these young children. This type of abuse is often under reported due to the age of the child as they may not have the verbal skills to talk about what is happening. If you believe your child is a victim of abuse at daycare, call us today.
Predatory employers or co-workers can create a hostile work environment. Workplace harassment is unfortunately rising and often dismissed. By speaking out you can break the cycle and hold the individuals accountable.
Doctors, nurses, and medical facilities are here to help us heal and recover from injuries and illnesses. However, when in a compromised state, abuse can happen by a doctor or other medical professional. Our experienced law firm can help determine if you have a strong case. Call us today.
We see places such as schools, camps, and churches as safe spaces for us and our children. Unfortunately, unwanted sexual contact, rape, and sexual assault can happen almost anywhere. Other types of sex assault cases we have represented include:
As a victim, you have powerful legal options to file a claim against your abuser. Contact our law firm today for legal advice and to speak with our sexual abuse attorneys to learn more about your case.. Our phones are available 24/7 for a free consultation.
Our attorneys are here to answer your questions. If you have something we have not answered, contact us today to learn more. Our personal injury lawyers only represent victims and have experience working in the state of West Virginia.
The statute of limitations acts as a legal time limit, counting down the amount of time you have to file suit. In West Virginia, there are two relevant statutes of limitations to consider, one for childhood sexual abuse and a second for sexual assault when the victim is an adult.
There is no statute of limitations for criminal cases against the perpetrator, but these can be more difficult and do not provide compensation to the victim.
For a civil lawsuit, the statute is typically two years. In early 202, the West Virginia House Bill 4559 was passed, giving those who have been sexually assaulted more time to sue for damages. This bill extends the statute from age 22 to age 36, or 4 years from the discovery of the abuse, whichever is later. This bill also extends the civil statute against individuals or organizations who aided or concealed the abuse.
Every case is different, we encourage you to contact an experienced West Virginia sexual abuse lawyer to learn the specifics regarding your case.
While we understand that hiring a sexual abuse lawyer will not end the pain and suffering you are experiencing, it can help alleviate some of the other pressures. A civil lawsuit can help you recover financial compensation to cover expenses such as medical bills, therapy, and more. A third party may also be held liable for negligence, an attorney can help you understand your legal options.
By hiring a lawyer you can ensure you are properly represented against the defendant. An experienced lawyer will also be able to determine if you are eligible for a civil claim, a criminal case, or even if there is a third-party liability.
Sexual assault or child molestation does not need to include physical touch. This can include:
Sexual abuse can cause lasting damages, both physically and emotionally. Effects of abuse can include localized pain, PTSD, anxiety, substance addiction, behavioral issues, relationship problems, eating disorders, and more.
Yes, there is a difference between a civil lawsuit and a criminal sexual abuse lawsuit. A civil claim will help compensate the victim for physical and emotional damages, holding the perpetrator and liable third parties financially accountable. A criminal lawsuit is more focused on the punishment of the perpetrator, typically involving fines, prison sentences, and registration as a sex offender.
Our law firm understands that by filing a lawsuit, your pain and suffering does not go away. A civil lawsuit aims to help alleviate the financial pressures of recovery, medical expenses, and to help bring a sense of justice to the victim. Contact us today for a free consultation and to speak with an attorney.
You were wronged. You were violated, in the most horrendous way imaginable. What happened to you is unfathomable. But these facts don't need to define your life. Recovery is possible. We've seen it numerous times. All too often, sexual assault and sexual abuse survivors feel silenced, struggling to find their voices again in a world that has become strange and terrifying.
Sexual misconduct can lead to a storm of painful emotions, from anger and shame to fear and embarrassment. These are natural reactions to terrible trauma. Know that you are not alone. It may feel as though you have nowhere to turn, but you do. Our experienced attorneys are here to support you through this difficult time. You can find your voice again.
If you or a family member has recently been the victim of sexual abuse or assault, we understand the pain you’re going through. It’s important to know that there are resources available for people in your situation. While it may be difficult to ask for help, the right support network can make your recovery much easier. Our West Virginia sexual assault lawyers can help you explore your legal options, while these victims’ resources are available for additional support:
Our West Virginia sexual abuse litigation team is lead by Paul Bucci, an experienced sexual abuse lawyer dedicated to representing victims. From our office in West Virginia, we serve the entire state including:
