Chilliwack Sexual Abuse Lawyers
Most cases of sexual abuse involve a betrayal of trust or an exploitation of a power imbalance between two people. Often, this involves an adult in a position of authority, trust, or dependency using their position to coerce a younger or more vulnerable person into engaging in sexual conduct.
Sexual abuse can be defined as any kind of non-consensual contact, including but not limited to rape, unwanted touching, molestation, and sexual exploitation. One of the most egregious forms of sexual abuse is when a person uses their power to exploit vulnerable individuals. Common examples of people who might use their positions to engage in unwanted sexual activities include priests, teachers, coaches, and caretakers. These kinds of individuals hold a position of trust and authority, and can abuse that power to take advantage of the vulnerable people in their care.
The emotional, psychological, and financial repercussions of sexual abuse can be devastating and long-lasting. Emotionally, sexual abuse can cause feelings of shame, guilt, and self-blame. Survivors may struggle with trust issues, making it difficult for them to form and maintain relationships with friends, co-workers, or romantic partners. Sexual abuse survivors may also experience flashbacks and nightmares, which can make it difficult to lead a normal life.
Psychologically, sexual abuse can cause a range of mental health issues, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. These conditions can make it difficult for survivors to find stable employment, participate in activities they used to enjoy, pursue educational opportunities, complete vocational training courses, or make lasting social connections with others. Survivors of sexual abuse also have a higher likelihood of developing self-destructive coping mechanism, including a reliance on alcohol and/or other substances. In fact, sexual abuse survivors are 26 times more likely to develop substance use disorders than non-victims.
Financially, sexual abuse can have a significant impact on the lives of survivors. Financial losses commonly incurred by sexual abuse survivors often include:
- Lost wages
- Reduced future earning capabilities
- Psychiatric treatment
- Psychological counseling
- Prescription medication
- And more
Our Chilliwack sexual abuse lawyers believe that no one should be forced to pay for someone else’s criminal actions. Since there is no statute of limitations on sexual abuse claims in this province, if you were the victim of sexual abuse at any time, you may still be able to pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.
Even if your abuse took place many years ago, our sexual abuse lawyers serving Chilliwack may be able to help you pursue a civil claim for damages. By working with our Chilliwack sexual abuse laywers, you may be able to file a lawsuit against your abuser and/or any other parties who may be liable.
The purpose of a civil claim is to seek compensation for the harm caused by the abuse. When pursuing a civil claim, damages that may be available include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and possibly more. To learn more about steps you might be able to take in order to bring your abuser to justice, contact us today.
You Do Not Pay Unless We Win
Our sexual abuse lawyers serving Chilliwack offer all prospective clients a free initial consultation. Furthermore, the community members we represent are not required to pay for our services unless we win their cases.
To receive the benefit of a personalized, confidential, cost-free consultation, contact our Chilliwack sexual abuse lawyers today.
