Courtice Sexual Abuse Lawyer
Sexual abuse is an indictable offence under the Canadian Criminal Code, punishable with significant prison time. Not only is it one of the most despicable crimes, sexual abuse can often wreak profound adverse effects on a survivor’s life for many years. Higher rates of depression, chronic anxiety, substance abuse, and self-harm have been linked to the the trauma of sexual abuse. The costs of treatment, as well as damages suffered in the form of lost income, can add up substantially.
Survivors of sexual abuse do not have to bear the financial burden of their recovery. Even if many years have passed since the abuse took place, a survivor may be entitled to bring a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator in order to recover the compensation they deserve. They may be entitled to damages related to medical expenses, the cost of psychotherapy, as well as other losses they have incurred as a result of their trauma.
If you are a survivor of sexual abuse, you may be legally elgibile for compensation. Contact us today and speak with our Courtice sexual abuse lawyers to see how we might be able to help you.
How is Sexual Abuse Defined?
Sexual abuse is, in essence, an ongoing pattern of sexual assault wrought by one party unto another. In Canada, sexual assault is defined legally as an action in which a person intentionally applies force to another person in a sexual manner without consent. This can be a physical action, such as rape, physical violence, or unwanted touching of any kind. It may also involve non-physical actions such as verbal harassment, stalking, voyeurism, or exposure.
When we speak of sexual abuse, it is often in the context of an adult abusing a child. This is certainly a significant and abhorrent facet, as statistics have shown 10% of Canadians reporting surviving childhood sexual abuse. However, sexual abuse can also occur between adults.
A key aspect of sexually abusive relationship is an imbalance of power between the perpetrator and survivor. In cases of childhood sexual abuse, an adult in a position of trust and authority manipulates their victim by exploiting that power imabalnce in order to abuse a child in their care. Other examples of perpetrators in positions of power include teachers, sports coaches, members of the clergy, community leaders, and other adults entrusted with the care of children.
Vulnerable adults can also be the victims of sexual abuse. Sexual abuse has been reported in the context of nursing homes, where senior citizens may be targeted by staff members. Sexual abuse can also occur within the context of intimate partner violence, often in cases where one spouse wields financial control over their partner. It can also occur in various contexts wherein members of a vulnerable population (including psychiatric patients and incarcerated people) are abused by someone who holds a position of authority over them.
Damages Survivors of Sexual Abuse May Recover
Each individual case is different. However, survivors of sexual abuse may be eligible to recover compensation to help cover the following:
- Medical bills
- Psychological treatment
- Costs of medicine
- Income lost due to medical/psychological conditions resulting from the trauma
- And more
Contact Our Courtice Sexual Abuse Lawyers Today
Under Ontario law, there is no statute of limitations on sexual abuse cases. This means that even if the crime took place decades ago, survivors may still file a lawsuit against the offender. Our team of Courtice sexual abuse lawyers are here to listen to your story and address any questions you may have. At Preszler Injury Lawyers, we are committed to providing compassionate service to all our clients, with respect for the courage it takes to come forward. Contact us today to discuss the specifics of your case in a free, no-obligation, confidential consultation.
