Milton Sexual Abuse Lawyer

An estimated 10% of Canadians have been subjected to childhood sexual abuse, almost always at the hands of an adult who was known to them. Exact statistics can be difficult to ascertain, because the vast majority of sexual abuse cases never reach the attention of law enforcement or social services. Social stigmas surrounding sexual abuse as well as survivors’ disempowered circumstances frequently contribute to ongoing silencing of survivors.

In Ontario, there is no statute of limitations on sexual abuse cases, which means that a survivor may be able to file a civil lawsuit against their abuser at any point in time, even if decades have passed since the crime was committed. By pursuing a civil lawsuit, the survivor may be able to recover financial compensation for damages they have incurred as a result of the abuse. These damages might include the costs of related medical bills, psychological counseling, rehabilitative care, lost income, and more.

Our team of Milton sexual abuse lawyers have compassion and respect for the tremendous courage it takes to step forward. We are dedicated to supporting the legal rights of survivors of sexual abuse. If you would like to discuss the specifics of your case and see what options may be available to you, contact us today and schedule a free initial consultation with Preszler Injury Lawyers. 

Defining Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse is an intictable crime. An individual found guilty by the Crown in criminal court may be imprisoned, as per the Canadian Criminal Code. 

While each case is different, sexual abuse typically occurs when a person in a position of power and authority over another exploits that position to force a target into participating in non-consensual sexual activities. When a person is forced to engage in sexual behaviour against their will, this is sexual assault. Examples of assault could involve physical violations such as non-consensual intercourse or unwanted sexual touching. They may include non-contact sexual conduct such as verbal harrassment, threats, voyeurism, stalking, and more. 

Sexual abuse is frequently committed by adults who hold a position of trust and authority in relation to the individual they choose to manipulate, violate, and exploit. They are often foster parents, teachers, members of the clergy, or more. Abusers frequently “groom” their targets, manipulating them into accepting increasing degrees of sexual conduct while isolating them from potential souces of help.

Adverse Effects of Sexual Abuse

Numerous studies have shown that survivors of childhood sexual abuse stand a higher chance of developing substance abuse issues and other mental health disorders as adults. Adults subjected to abuse likewise often experience the adverse effects of the trauma. This may include:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Disassociation
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Addiction disorders
• Panic disorders
• Substance abuse issues
• Personality disorders
• And more

Compensation for Survivors of Sexual Abuse

High levels of stress may contribute to increased blood pressure and a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases, which can be life-threatening. The time a survivor may need to take off work as a result of their trauma could have profound impacts on their and their family’s financial stability. 

By pursuing a civil lawsuit, a survivor may be able to recover losses they have incurred as a result of the abuse they have endured. By working with our Milton sexual abuse lawyers, survivors might be able to recover the costs of medical bills related to their abuse, therapy, lost income, pain and suffering, and (depending on the circumstances of their case) punitive damages.

Contact Our Milton Sexual Abuse Lawyers Today

Our team at Preszler Injury Lawyers is committed to providing dedicated, compassionate service. If you are a survivor of sexual abuse and would like to know more about what legal compensation may be available to you, call us at 1-800-JUSTICE or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation, initial consultation with our Milton sexual abuse lawyers and see how we might be of service to you.