Sexual abuse is a much more prevalent occurrence than many individuals realize, and it is an ordeal that nobody should ever have to endure. Sadly, there are countless sexual assault victims who do not have the representation they deserve, but at Good Guys Injury Law, least we seek to rectify that issue.
If you or someone you care about has been the victim of sexual abuse, you deserve to focus your attention on getting better. Instead, allow us to handle the legal issues, making sure that your rights are protected as the case unfolds. We appreciate the amount of courage it requires for someone to step forward and tell their story, and we fight to make sure that everyone’s voice is heard. Our experienced sexual abuse lawyer is here to protect your rights.
Learn more about how our law firm advocates for the needs of survivors, and give us a call to schedule a free case consultation with a Utah sexual abuse attorney.
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Secure Legal Representation From a Utah Sex Abuse Lawyer for Your Case
We believe that every individual is legally entitled to be represented by a team of Utah sexual abuse lawyers, and there are several ways that the team from Good Guys Injury Law can help you. Some of the ways that we advocate for the rights and needs of our clients include:
- Advocating for Survivors’ Rights and Interests: We will assess your case in depth and make sure that all of your rights are protected. Our top priority is to take action with your best interests at heart at each stage of the process, and we will guarantee that you understand all of your options.
- Investigating and Gathering Evidence Related to the Abuse: We will conduct a thorough investigation to collect crucial evidence related to your aggravated sexual abuse case. You never know what detail could be important in the outcome of your case, so rely on our legal experts to help you collect evidence.
- Assessing the Viability of Legal Claims: Our experienced attorneys will evaluate your case. Afterward, we will provide our assessment on whether it is in your optimal interests to settle the case or proceed to trial. We guarantee that you understand exactly how much your case is worth.
- Representing Clients in Court Proceedings: If your case goes to court, we will provide expert legal representation. We will guarantee that you have a grasp of what exactly is happening, help you navigate the legal waters, and ensure that you always have the support you require.
- Negotiating Settlements and Pursuing Compensation: Many cases could be settled without ever going to court at all. We can provide support in negotiating with the other side, making sure that you recover a fair settlement.
We totally recognize that this can be a lot to absorb, and the first thing you must do is reach out to us to schedule a free case consultation. Rely on our team to represent your rights every step of the way. Don’t neglect to reach out to the National sexual assault hotline in an emergency.
Definition and Types of Sexual Abuse
We understand that there can be some disagreement about what constitutes sexual abuse, but if you have questions, reach out to our Utah sex abuse attorneys to schedule a consultation. For example, there are some forms of sexual abuse that qualify as rape, and others may qualify as molestation or fondling. Anyone who forces someone to perform a sexual act against their will, or anyone who performs the sexual act with someone who is legally unable to consent to that act, could be guilty of sexual abuse.
Because there are numerous distinct forms of sexual abuse, we encourage you to give us a call to schedule a case consultation. We can examine and asses the circumstances surrounding your case and guarantee that you understand your rights.
Laws and Statutes Related to Sexual Abuse in Utah
Utah has a variety of laws in place to protect people from sexual abuse. These include Utah Code §76-5-402 with regard to rape, §76-5-403 on forcible sexual abuse, and §76-5-404.1, which discusses sexual battery. There are plenty of other laws that could apply to situations involving sexual abuse in Utah, but we understand that the legal jargon can be confusing for someone who doesn’t have a legal background.
To make sure you understand exactly which laws and statutes may apply to your case, give us a call to schedule a case consultation. Our law firm has an extensive amount of experience with a variety of circumstances surrounding sexual abuse, and we will make sure that all potential issues are covered during our investigation.
Common Sexual Offenses in Utah
Sadly, there are lots of sexual offenses that could take place in Utah from time to time, and it is vital for you to seek medical care as promptly as possible if you believe you are the victim of sexual abuse.
A few examples of sexual offenses that could take place in the local area include:
- Rape: Rape refers to forcible sexual intercourse with someone else against their will. This includes intimate partner violence, which covers rape when two individuals are in an intimate relationship, including marriage. Just because someone is married doesn’t mean that they can send to sexual activity all the time.
- Object Rape: Object rape is a heinous crime where someone is forcibly penetrated with a foreign object. This also qualifies as sexual abuse, and this crime is prosecuted vigorously.
- Child Sexual Abuse: Someone who is under the age of 18 cannot legally consent to sexual activity, so anyone under the age of 18 who is forced to perform a sexual act could be a victim of child abuse.
- Statutory Rape: Statutory rape takes place when someone participates in sexual intercourse with another person who is under the age of consent. Statutory rape is committed whether the act is consensual or not. The circumstances surrounding this type of crime can be murky and confusing, which is why it is important to contact a lawyer as promptly as possible.
- Fondling or Molestation: This refers to physical contact with sexual organs without the consent of the other person involved. Molestation could take place even if it was over the clothes.
Each of these crimes carries different penalties, but just because a case is being pursued in the criminal court doesn’t mean that a civil case is precluded. If you or someone you love is the victim of any of the crimes above, reach out to us to schedule a case consultation.
Signs of Sexual Abuse
The signs of sexual abuse can vary significantly depending on the crime that took place and the effects it has on the individual involved. The difficult part about identifying and pursuing cases of sexual assault is that victims of sexual assault may not have any signs at all.
A few signs that could indicate someone has suffered sexual assault include:
Physical Signs
Physical indications of sexual abuse may be minimal, but some of the potential signs that someone may have to include unexplained injuries, problems walking or sitting, and frequent urinary or yeast infections. If someone fought back against the attacker, they may also have bruises, lacerations, or cuts. Make sure to seek medical care as quickly as you can following sexual assault.
Behavioral Signs
Behavioral changes following an incident of sexual assault are not uncommon. Some of the most typical examples include changes in sleep patterns, regressive behaviors such as bedwetting, inappropriate sexual behaviors for the age of the person, and sudden changes in academic or work performance. Keep in mind that the behavioral changes can vary significantly depending on how old someone is.
Emotional Signs
Emotional changes are also very common following an incident of sexual assault, with some of the most common examples including mood swings, anxiety, depression, withdrawal from friends or family, and feelings of shame or guilt. It is critical for everyone who has suffered sexual abuse to seek the help of a mental health professional.
These are just some of the typical indicators that could indicate that someone has suffered sexual abuse but remember that you do not have to go through this situation by yourself.
What To Do if You Have Been Sexually Abused
If you have been sexually abused, remember that it is not your fault. The initial step you should take after a case of sexual abuse is to seek immediate medical attention.
It is of paramount importance to ensure first that all your injuries are treated appropriately. Then, do not forget to report the incident to law enforcement. Consider reaching out to a trusted individual for support, as you should not have to go through this situation on your own.
Remember that how to handle this case is your decision alone. You ought to do what you consider is right for you, but remember to lean on those around you for support. Consider reaching out to a knowledgeable Utah sex abuse lawyer like Good Guys Injury Law to explore your legal options. We understand that cases of sexual abuse can be frustrating and confusing, but we can act as your legal God during this situation.
How to File a Civil Case for Sexual Abuse in Utah
Filing a civil lawsuit for sexual abuse involves several steps. The initial step you should take is reaching out to us to schedule a case consultation. Our team will provide continuous support and assistance throughout the entire process, including gathering evidence, filing a complaint, and settling the case or taking it to trial. If there is a criminal case running in tandem with the civil case, we can also keep in touch with the district attorney on your side. An experienced lawyer can walk you through this process and ensure your rights are protected. Our firm commitment is to ensure that your rights are secured at every stage of the process.
Assigning Liability in Sex Abuse Cases
Liability in sexual abuse cases can sometimes extend far beyond the perpetrator. Third parties like employers, organizations, or institutions may be held liable if they neglect their duty to ensure a safe environment, particularly if child sex abuse happened. We will conduct a full investigation to make sure that anyone who is liable for your situation is held responsible. We fight for sexual abuse victims and other victims of sex crimes.
Penalties for Sex Crime Convictions in Utah
Sexual offenses in Utah are always serious. Therefore, the punishment for a sex conviction in Utah can also be serious.
Misdemeanors
Misdemeanors, such as sexual battery and other forcible sexual acts, can result in imprisonment and steep fines. Penalties for a misdemeanor conviction are detailed in various legal statutes, including Utah Code §76-3-204.
Felonies
Even though some cases of sexual abuse are misdemeanors, others are considered serious felonies. There are even some crimes that can lead to life imprisonment, major fines, and the penalties are laid out in Utah Code §76-3-203.
Schedule a Free Case Consultation From Our Utah Sex Abuse Lawyer at Good Guys Injury Law
At Good Guys Injury Law, we offer a free, confidential case consultation. We acknowledge that it can be stressful to go through a situation involving sexual abuse, but this is not a predicament that you should ever feel like you need to face on your own. At Good Guys Injury Law, we are here to provide you with assistance and support at every step of the journey, so give us a call to schedule a free case consultation with a member of our team.
Utah Sex Abuse Lawyer Frequently Asked Questions
We always dedicate time to address your questions before we move forward, and some of the most common questions that people ask include:
How Do You Know if I Have a Valid Sexual Abuse Case?
This process encompasses a multitude of factors, but a sex abuse lawyer from our team will examine and asses your situation and see if there is a valid claim that we should pursue.
What Compensation Can I Seek as a Survivor?
Sexual abuse survivors can recover compensation for medical expenses, therapy costs, loss of income, pain and suffering, and much more. We will evaluate your case with you to make sure you get a grasp of your rights and what indemnities you might be entitled to.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit in Utah?
Under Utah Code §78B-2-308, you usually have four years from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit. Therefore can be sure to reach out to us as promptly as possible to schedule a case consultation.
Can I Pursue Legal Action if the Abuse Happened Years Ago?
Yes. Even if the legal action happened years ago, you may still be able to file a claim, particularly if the incident happened during childhood. There is still a statute of limitations, so be sure to reach out to us as soon as you can.