You deserve to know your legal rights if you are a victim of sexual abuse.
Our sexual abuse injury lawyers recognize and understand the emotional trauma that survivors experience. That is why we approach each sexual abuse case with both compassion for the survivor and determination to hold the perpetrator financially accountable for damages.
If you, your child, or another loved one has suffered the physical and emotional harm of sexual abuse, please call our firm for a free consultation. We can explain your rights and legal options.
Call a sexual abuse lawyer serving Kitchener from Preszler Injury Lawyers anytime: 1-800-JUSTICE.
Our sexual abuse lawyers can meet with you in Kitchener for a free initial consultation. Call (416) 364-2000
Sexual Abuse is a Civil and Criminal Offense
Ontario has lifted the statute of limitations on seeking criminal and civil charges on sexual abuse. While we leave arrests and criminal prosecution to our respected police officers and prosecutors, Preszler Injury Lawyers can help survivors pursue financial compensation.
Our legal team will work diligently on your behalf to get you the compensation you may deserve, including but not limited to:
- Lost wages: Many sexual abuse survivors find it challenging to keep steady employment, concentrate at work, or to advance in their careers because of their emotional trauma.
- Pain and suffering: While the physical injuries of sexual abuse may heal, the psychological suffering can last for years, even a lifetime.
- Loss of consortium: Sexual abuse survivors often have difficulty with intimate relationships, robbing them of the comforts of marriage or partnership with a significant other.
- Punitive damages: Although it is rare, the court may assess punitive damages to the defendant for a particularly egregious offense.
We have successfully recovered damages for thousands of clients. We cannot guarantee the outcome of a future case, but we are dedicated to helping you recover compensation and justice.
Kitchener Sexual Abuse Lawyer Near Me (416) 364-2000
How We Determine Liability in a Sexual Abuse Case
The burden of proof in a civil lawsuit is different than in a criminal case. Instead of proving that the defendant is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, a sexual abuse lawyer proves instead that it is more likely than not that the defendant caused injury and damages.
Preszler Injury Lawyers has the resources, staff, and commitment to investigate the circumstances of your case.
We gather the evidence necessary to prove liability based upon certain factors:
- The defendant owed the plaintiff a duty of care to take reasonable measures to avoid causing harm.
- The defendant breached this duty of care, causing the plaintiff to suffer physical and emotional harm.
- The plaintiff has damages because of these injuries.
In some sexual abuse civil lawsuits, there may be more than one liable party.
There Are Different Forms of Liability
Ontario courts recognize that there are multiple forms of liability in a sexual abuse lawsuit: direct and vicarious.
A sexual abuse lawyer serving Kitchener can show how other parties breached their duty of care, thereby causing you injury.
For example:
- A school that did not conduct proper background checks and hired a known sexual abuser who assaulted your child.
- The inadequate lighting and security at your apartment complex allowed your attacker to remain hidden.
- A hospital did not inform patients that their physician had many complaints of sexual abuse.
A lawyer with Preszler Injury Lawyers can identify all liable parties and seek compensation accordingly if you are eligible for compensation. For a free initial consultation, call 1-800-JUSTICE.
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You Are Not Alone as You Seek Compensation and Justice
It is understandable that a sexual assault survivor may not want to testify in a crowded courtroom. This is particularly true if the victim is a minor. Others may feel empowered by facing their attacker in the safety of a courtroom. It is entirely up to you. A sexual abuse lawyer can videotape your statement if you prefer.
Preszler Injury Lawyers are with you at each stage of your case. We look for supporting testimony and evidence that might include:
- Sexual abuse counselors and licensed mental health professionals
- Your medical provider, who can speak with authority about your physical and emotional health
- The defendant’s earlier criminal record
- Any complaints or prior altercations involving sexual abuse, assault, harassment, or battery
We can also guide you to the proper agencies and support systems that can help, such as the Sexual Assault Centre (SACHA).
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
Why Sexual Abuse Survivors Are Underserved by the Legal System
According to SACHA, there are 460,000 sexual assaults in Canada each year. However, this number may be higher if you consider that out of every 1,000 attacks, only:
- 33 are reported to the police.
- 29 are recorded as criminal behavior.
- 12 perpetrators are charged
- 6 are prosecuted
- 3 prosecutions lead to convictions
All told, 997 out of every 1,000 sexual assailants walk free, with no criminal charges or jail time.
Our legal team at Preszler Injury Lawyers is determined to help change these shocking statistics. We will help you to hold the perpetrator who sexually abused you or your loved one accountable—and those who contributed to this act.
If you were sexually abused or assaulted, we will be your legal advocate. Call 1-800-JUSTICE for a free initial consultation at our office or in your home, whichever is more convenient for you.
What Defines Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse does not have to include actual sex acts. The Canadian Red Cross defines sexual abuse as any sexual pleasure derived when an adult, adolescent or older child prey on another person.
Sexual abuse includes sex trafficking, prostitution, child pornography, and other acts of exploitation.
Preparators will target the most vulnerable people, typically under the guise of wanting to be their friend or romantic interest.
You Could Recover Compensation
A sexual abuse lawsuit is an effective way to hold a perpetrator responsible. Preszler Injury Lawyers can help you pursue compensation and justice. Our lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. You do not owe fees unless we successfully recover compensation for you.
Please call a sexual abuse lawyer serving Kitchener at 1-800-JUSTICE for a free initial consultation.
Call or text (416) 364-2000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
