Kingston Sexual Abuse Lawyer
Among the most reprehensible crimes, sexual abuse is an indictable offence under the Criminal Code of Canada. It transpires when an adult in a position of trust, authority, or dependency coerces a child or vulnerable adults into engaging in unwanted sexual activities. Any unwanted, non-consensual sexual behaviour falls under the definition of sexual assault.
Perpetrators of sexual abuse tend to have a social, professional, or familial relationship with their targets. They typically hold a position of trust and authority in relation to the person they choose to violate. Examples often include teachers, members of the clergy, foster parents, guardians, or other adults who have been entrusted with the care of a child.
In cases where the target of sexual abuse is an adult, there is typically a similar imbalance of power. For instance, the target may be a senior citizen in a nursing home targeted by a staff member. Within the context of a spousal relationship, the target may be a spouse who is financially dependent on their abuser. Other examples of adult victims often include psychiatric patients or incarcerated individuals.
If you are a survivor of sexual abuse, you may be eligible for compensation to help recover damages incurred as a result of your trauma. Contact our team of Kingston sexual abuse lawyers today at 1-800-JUSTICE to learn more.
Lasting Effects of Sexual Abuse
Statistics show that approximately 10% of Canadians have been the targets of childhood sexual abuse. Despite this significant number, the vast majority never disclosed the abuse at the time, and most did not report it to social services or law enforcement.
The impacts of sexual abuse affect different individuals differently. Survivors have reported a wide range of unique responses and coping mechanisms in their healing. However, studies have shown that mental health issues frequently result from the trauma of sexual abuse. This may include:
- Anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Depression
- Substance abuse issues
- Addiction
- And more
Compensation for Survivors
Due to their traumas, survivors of sexual abuse may face profound changes to their quality of life. An individual may no longer be able to pursue their education, or continue working in their present job or profession. This may have significant financial consequences on not only the survivor, but their family members as well.
Moreover, costs of medical treatments, rehabilitative care, and psychological counseling can add up and accumulate over time. These financial losses often add additional stresses to the lives of sexual abuse survivors, further exacerbating the serious mental health conditions they may be experiencing.
By working with our sexual abuse lawyers serving Kingston, survivors may be able to pursue a civil lawsuit for damages they have incurred as a result of their actions. By doing so, the survivor could re-establish a financial position they would have held if it were not for the perpetrator’s wrongdoings.
To determine whether you may be eligible for compensation, and to discuss what legal options are available to you, contact our Kingston sexual abuse lawyers today for a free initial consultation.
Contact Our Kingston Sexual Abuse Lawyers Today
At Preszler Injury Lawyers, we are committed to helping our clients understand their legal rights. We believe no one should have to shoulder the financial burden of an abuser’s actions. We offer a free initial consultation to survivors of sexual abuse, completely confidential, and with no obligation to move forward with a case. If you would like to discuss your options, contact us today online or at 1-800-JUSTICE and see what our Kingston sexual abuse lawyers may be able to do for you.
