Sexual Assault/Sexual Abuse Attorneys

Sexual assault or abuse has a significant impact on survivors. At Stark & Stark, we understand that taking the first step toward healing and justice may not feel easy. 

We’ve become trusted advocates for survivors, helping them regain control of their lives and working to hold wrongdoers accountable. Our legal team is dedicated to guiding you through every step of this process, all while prioritizing your safety and dignity.

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Survivors of sexual assault and abuse have legal rights and our attorneys will ensure these rights are protected

• Every survivor’s case is different, but the two main pathways to legal justice include:
  • Criminal action
  • Civil lawsuit
• The general goal of the criminal justice system is to hold the perpetrator criminally responsible through an investigation and prosecution by law enforcement (think prison, probation, etc.). Unfortunately, decisions about whether a perpetrator faces criminal charges are left up to police and prosecutors, and sadly, the vast majority of perpetrators will never see the inside of a jail cell (see https://rainn.org/statistics/criminal-justice-system) 
• The civil system allows a survivor to bring claims against the perpetrator and any accountable person and/or institution if they ignore the abuse or enable the assault to occur. A civil lawsuit requests financial compensation or a change in policies.

Who can you hold accountable through a civil lawsuit?

Beyond seeking justice against the perpetrator, we seek larger-scale accountability when organizations or institutions enable or allow sexual assault or abuse to occur. For example, possible defendants may include:

• Schools;
• Religious organizations;
• Businesses;
• Athletic programs;
• Doctors/hospitals;
• Jails/Detention facilities;
• Spas/massage parlors;
• Daycares;
• Rehabilitation centers;
• Camps/youth programs;
• Hotels;
• Ride-share companies.

Why Choose Our Compassionate Sexual Assault Sexual Abuse Attorneys?

When it comes to the aftermath of sexual assault or abuse, having the right legal team by your side makes all the difference. 

At Stark & Stark, our sexual assault lawyers believe in delivering more than legal support—we provide a safe haven of empathy and understanding.

What Sets Us Apart:

• With over 90 years of service, we have successfully represented survivors in sensitive cases, fighting for justice and maximum compensation.
• Your confidentiality is our priority; from private consultations to secure evidence handling, we want to ensure your trust remains intact.
• Every decision is made with your well-being in mind, from initial contact to case resolution.

Our compassionate legal team is committed to helping you feel empowered as you move forward with your life.

Quick Facts on Sexual Assault and Abuse 

Sexual assault and abuse are grave violations of a person’s autonomy and dignity. While different states may use slightly different definitions, having a general understanding can help survivors approach their cases with legal assistance.

What is sexual assault and sexual abuse?

• Sexual Assault includes any non-consensual sexual activity, such as forced intercourse, groping, or any unwanted sexual contact. It may also include electronic recording or dissemination of sexually explicit material.
• Sexual Abuse often involves harm perpetrated by someone in a position of trust, such as a teacher, caregiver, or family member.

The Scope of the Problem

• According to recent statistics, 1 in 6 women and 1 in 33 men will experience sexual violence at some point in their lives.
• Over 90% of victims know their perpetrator, highlighting the trust that is often betrayed in these cases.
• A majority of sexual assaults are never reported to law enforcement. In fact, only 310 out of every 1,000 sexual assaults are reported to police according to the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network RAINN.

Legal Implications

Both sexual assault and abuse can lead to criminal charges and civil claims. 

Civil lawsuits allow survivors to seek compensation from responsible parties for medical expenses, as well as emotional distress, lost wages, and other related damages.

Steps to Take After an Assault

The aftermath of sexual violence can feel overwhelming, but taking certain steps can help protect your rights.

1. Report the assault/abuse to law enforcement. They will document the event and can connect you to additional resources.
2. Visit a hospital or clinic to receive both medical attention and an evidence-gathering exam, such as a rape kit.
3. Avoid changing clothes, showering, or discarding any physical evidence from the incident. Write down everything you recall, including the time, location, and description of your assailant or events.
4. Contact the knowledgeable team at Stark & Stark to discuss your legal options. Our attorneys can guide you through the next steps while keeping your recovery at the forefront.

Taking these actions can not only protect yourself but also preserve crucial evidence for a potential civil or criminal case.

Common Myths and Facts on Sexual Assault/Sexual Abuse

Cultural misconceptions about sexual assault and abuse often deter survivors from stepping forward. We aim to dispel them with facts that empower survivors to take action.

• Myth: “I can’t take legal action because I didn’t report it right away.”
  Fact: There is no right or wrong way for a survivor to act following a sexual assault. The vast majority of abuse survivors take time to process what has happened before disclosing their assault/abuse. Many states have extended reporting periods for survivors, allowing lawsuits several years after the incident occurred.
• Myth: “Only physical evidence can prove assault.”
  Fact: Testimony, witness statements, and other forms of corroborating evidence are often enough to build a strong case.

How Our Sexual Abuse Lawyers Can Help You Seek Justice

Our primary goal is to restore a sense of justice and peace to your life. At Stark & Stark, our legal team does this through diligent representation, empathetic support, and extensive resources.

The Legal Process

1. Confidential Consultation – We listen to your experience and address any questions or concerns without judgment.
2. Investigative Support – Our attorneys collect and organize evidence, from medical reports to witness accounts, to build a solid case.
3. Negotiations and Representation – Whether negotiating a settlement or pursuing a trial, our attorneys fiercely advocate for your best interests.
4. Case Resolution – Our aim is to secure compensation and hold institutions accountable so that survivors can move forward into a chapter of healing. This may include payment for medical expenses, pain and suffering, emotional distress, lost wages, and punitive damages.

Every decision is made with your healing and justice in mind.

Legal Rights of Survivors

Understanding the legal protections afforded to survivors can empower you to take action confidently. Survivors of sexual assault and abuse have legal rights, and our attorneys will ensure these rights are protected. For example:

• Survivors have a right to be informed: in both the criminal and civil justice systems, survivors are to be provided with information about services and steps in their case
• Survivors have a right to be heard: survivors have the right to give input regarding actions and outcomes they want to see in their case

These rights are in place to support your recovery, and Stark & Stark will ensure they are upheld every step of the way.

The Role of Therapy and Support

Healing from sexual violence is as much an emotional process as a legal one. Incorporating professional therapy into your recovery can provide tools to reclaim your sense of self.

Therapy Options

• Trauma Therapy – Aimed at addressing PTSD and managing triggers from traumatic memories.
• Group Counseling – Provides a sense of community and shared experiences with others who have faced similar challenges.

Many of the survivors we’ve represented credit therapy and support networks as critical in their journeys to recovery. Our team at Stark & Stark can refer you to organizations and professionals tailored to your needs.

Contact Our Dedicated Sexual Assault Attorneys Today

You don’t have to face this alone. Stark & Stark is here to provide both the compassionate support and steadfast legal representation you need to pursue justice. Our team will listen, advocate, and guide you toward the resolution you deserve. 

Contact us today at (800) 535-3425 to arrange a confidential consultation. Together, we’ll take the steps toward recovery and accountability.

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