.2504220748378.png){kind=logo}
.2504220748479.png){kind=logo}
Seattle Sexual Abuse Attorneys
Sexual Assault Lawyers Serving Kent, Federal Way, Redmond, Des Moines, and Tukwila
In addition to criminal penalties, the perpetrators of sexual abuse, child molestation, or sexual assault can all face civil justice for their heinous acts. Victims of any kind of sexual abuse can face serious economic damages as a direct result of what they were put through. This may include medical bills, future medical needs (including mental health treatments), and lost wages.
While no amount of financial compensation can ever undo the harm that was caused, victims need financial recourse to help cover these damages and ease any financial burden resulting from the abuse. By filing a civil lawsuit, victims and their families can seek additional accountability and the compensation they deserve from the wrongdoer or wrongdoers.
Understandably, victims of sexual abuse or assault are hesitant to come forward and report sex crimes. It is deeply personal and emotionally traumatic. However, victims of sexual abuse and exploitation should not wait to get legal advice, as the passage of time can adversely affect a case.
At Bishop Legal, we are prepared to handle all types of cases involving sexual abuse or misconduct. Our attorneys are experienced in handling large, complex, and serious cases. We can investigate all aspects of a claim and secure the experts necessary to prove negligence and/or damage when harm has been caused. Our team is available 24/7 to take your call, and we do not charge fees unless we help you recover compensation.
Types of Sexual Abuse and Assault Cases We Handle
At Bishop Legal, we can help you take civil legal action against a person or organization that directly sexually assaulted or abused you or is legally responsible for abuse or assault. This could range from an individual assailant to an organization that allowed abuse to occur under their watch.
Perpetrators of sexual abuse or assault can include:
- Teachers
- Clergy
- Daycare providers
- Doctors
- Therapists
- Counselors
- Coaches
- Care givers
- College residence hall assistants
- Family members
- Acquaintances
The abhorrent acts of sexual abuse, rape, or child molestation can happen anywhere, including nursing homes, hospitals, mental institutions, college dormitories, parking lots, and hotels. People of all ages can be victims of sexual abuse, including the elderly and disabled in nursing homes or other care facilities.
Our Seattle sexual abuse lawyers can provide compassionate, solutions-driven representation. Schedule a free, confidential consultation by calling (206) 260-3316 or contacting us online. Se habla español.
-
If you need a firm to represent you I would choose Bishop Legal!
“I had the great opportunity of working with Maria and my experience with bishop legal went amazing! They are great to work with, great communication skills, always friendly, and most importantly they make you feel important and part of the case. Hopefully I don’t get into another car crash but if I do I know where to go and I’m definitely going to recommend them to my friends and family. Thank you so much to Maria and Abogado Raymundo. Ps. They also speak Spanish and were able to accommodate my dad when we went with me and make him feel part of the case.”- Merver -
They got a great positive outcome for me in the end.
“The people here are great! They took care of everything for me and were always super helpful with any questions or concerns I had. I highly recommend them for your legal needs! Thanks, Bishop Law!”- Lisa W. -
My experience with Bishop Legal has been incredible.
“Communication was kept in a good pace. They help me understand how the process works and explain to me any legal questions I had. I would highly recommend to family & friends.”- Yadira T. -
Can't thank this firm enough for helping me and my family with our accident.
“Roberto helped me with my daughter's case, Victoria, and was able to get a good settlement for her. I would highly recommend this firm to anyone looking for a personal injury attorney.”- Priscilla A.
Statute of Limitations for Civil Sexual Abuse Cases in Washington State
In the state of Washington, adult victims of sexual abuse or assault generally have three years from the date the abuse or assault occurred or the date they discovered (or should have reasonably discovered) the abuse or assault to take legal action. This means you have a three-year window from the date the abuse occurred or three years from the date you realized (or should have realized) you were abused to file a lawsuit.
The time limits for sexual abuse involving minors are more complicated. There is now no time limit for pursuing civil legal action for childhood sexual abuse that occurred on or after June 6, 2024.
Victims of childhood sexual abuse whose abuse occurred before June 6, 2024, have three years to file a civil lawsuit from:
- The date they turn eighteen
- The date the victim discovered or reasonably should have discovered that an injury or condition was the result of abuse
- The date the victim discovered that the abuse caused the injuries or conditions for which they are suing
It is in your best interest to get legal advice as soon as possible if you are considering pursuing a sexual assault case. If you wait too long to take civil legal action, you may be unable to recover damages.
Understanding the Differences Between Criminal and Civil Sexual Assault Cases
Criminal sexual assault cases focus on punishing the offender for breaking the law. These cases are prosecuted by the state, and the burden of proof lies on the prosecutor, who must prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The goal of a criminal case revolves around justice for society as a whole, with penalties like incarceration, fines, probation, or mandatory rehabilitation programs being common outcomes if the defendant is found guilty.
Civil sexual assault cases, on the other hand, center on providing financial compensation to the victim for the harm caused by the offender. These cases are brought forward by the victim, not the state, and the standard of proof is less stringent than in criminal cases. The plaintiff must prove the defendant’s liability by a preponderance of the evidence, meaning that it is more likely than not that the defendant caused the harm.
These legal processes operate independently from one another, and the differing standards of proof can result in different outcomes. Someone can be found “not guilty” in a criminal sexual assault case but be found liable for damages in a civil lawsuit, for example.
In other words, you shouldn’t assume that you do not have a civil sexual assault case even if the perpetrator was found “not guilty,” took a plea bargain, or wasn’t even charged. Our Seattle sexual abuse attorneys can assess your circumstances and help you understand your legal options.
-
$40,000,000 Jury Verdict | Airport Accident
-
$25,000,000 Settlement | Immigrant Concrete Worker Accident
-
$11,000,000 Settlement | Airport Accident
-
$1,000,000 Settlement | Construction Accident
-
$800,000 Settlement | Construction Accident
-
$527,000 Verdict | Insurance Bad Faith
Types of Compensation Available in Washington Sexual Abuse Cases
Victims of sexual abuse can recover several types of compensation to aid in their recovery and address the harm they have endured. Economic damages are quantifiable financial losses directly tied to the abuse and its consequences, while non-economic damages are less tangible and compensate for the abuse’s emotional and psychological impact.
Our Seattle sexual abuse lawyers can work to get you just compensation for all economic and non-economic damages, including:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
You do not have to go through this process alone. Call (206) 260-3316 or contact us online to learn more about how we can help you seek accountability and justice.
.2505060848028.png "Super Lawyers Rated")
