A List Of Damages Survivors Can Seek Through A Sexual Abuse Case

When it comes to sexual abuse cases, there is no right or wrong way to feel. As the mind and body process the damage of sexual violence, different behaviors, emotions, and physical responses will appear. 

Sexual abuse often leaves the victim in a devastating state and, most times, with psychological, emotional, and physical scars. If you or a loved one is a victim of sexual abuse, you should hire the services of sex assault lawyers.

Did you know that sexual assault victims have the legal right to claim damages for the harm they’ve been put through? This article explores a detailed list of damages survivors of sexual abuse can seek if they file a sexual abuse case. 

Damages You Can Seek For Sexual Abuse Cases

The individual who committed and/or enabled sexual abuse must be held accountable for their actions. In a civil lawsuit, you can take your case to court. If you prove the defendant is liable, you can receive a substantial sum for your injuries and damages.

Damages for sexual abuse refer to the financial compensation given to survivors to help them hold the offender accountable and also recover from the trauma as soon as possible. The major aim of these damages is to aid sexual abuse survivors in rebuilding their lives and provide a measure of justice. Let’s get right to it.

Compensatory Damages

These damages aim to compensate the victims for the harm and losses they have suffered due to the sexual abuse. Below are some types of compensatory damages you can claim;

• Medical Expenses: Sexual abuse survivors require therapeutic and medical treatment to deal with the psychological and physical injuries perpetrated upon them. You can claim the cost of counseling, medical consultation, therapy, and other related expenses as compensatory damages.
• Pain, Suffering, and Emotional Distress: Sexual abuse can cause mental anguish, intense emotional distress, and ongoing psychological trauma for victims. Damages for the suffering, pain, and emotional distress aim to compensate victims for the humiliation, mental anguish, etc.

Non-Economic Damages

This damage compensates survivors for intangible losses that are hard to calculate in monetary terms. Non-economic damage seeks to recognize the non-financial impact of the sexual abuse and offer some form of compensation. Some types include;

• Loss Of Reputation: Sexual abuse survivors often suffer major damage to their reputation within their social/professional sphere or community. This damage aims to compensate for the harm done to both your professional and personal image.
• Loss Of Consortium: It refers to the effect of the sexual abuse on the victim’s personal relationships and loss of support, affection, and companionship from their loved ones. 

Punitive Damages

In most cases, sexual abuse survivors are entitled to seek punitive damage. The punitive damages goal is to punish the perpetrator for their inexcusable conduct and discourage others from doing the same. 

Punitive damages not only hold the perpetrator accountable but also serve as a warning for others who may want to engage in similar acts. Punitive damages impose significant financial penalties that send a message that such conduct and actions will not be tolerated.

Jurisdictional Variations And Legal Standards

Where you file your sexual abuse case can significantly impact the outcome, especially when it comes to punitive damages. Different places have different rules about how much money can be awarded for punishment and to deter future harm.

For instance, some places may have strict caps on punitive damages, while others may allow for larger awards. You have to understand these legal nuances to maximize your potential recovery.

A skilled lawyer can navigate these complexities and ensure you receive the justice you deserve. They can assess the specific laws in your jurisdiction and tailor your case accordingly.