Sexual Abuse Lawsuits in St.Clairsville

Over the past few years, numerous incidents of sexual abuse have come to light, providing victims with the opportunity to seek the justice they deserve. These cases have gained increased attention from both traditional media and social media platforms, exposing instances involving influential individuals who have wielded their authority to oppress others, including members of the clergy, Boy Scouts, and public figures.

At St.Clairsville Criminal Law Group, our experienced St.Clairsville clergy abuse lawyer has been handling sexual abuse cases for many years. We understand the challenging journey faced by victims, and that is why we approach each case with utmost compassion. Our priority is to ensure that you or your loved ones receive the justice you rightfully deserve.

What Is Sexual Assault

Sexual assault refers to incidents of rape, attempted rape, or non-consensual touching of the victim’s body over their clothes. The legal definition of sexual assault is generally consistent across all states in the US and the District of Columbia. It encompasses situations where the victim is forced or coerced into engaging in sexual acts without their consent. Marital rape has been recognized as a crime in all states since 1993.

What Is Forcible Rape

Forcible rape involves the use of physical force or coercion by the perpetrator to engage in sexual acts without the victim’s consent. The statistics surrounding forcible rape are shocking:

• Approximately 20% of women have reported being victims of forcible rape at some point in their lives.
• Around 80% of these cases occur when the victim is under the age of 25, typically during their college years.
• Only 20% of forcible rape cases are reported to the authorities. Many victims remain silent.
• Men account for 2% of reported forcible rape cases.
• Disturbingly, 30% of victims were raped as children.
• Arrests are made in only 25% of cases, leaving the majority of rapists unpunished.
• In many instances of forcible rape, the perpetrator is someone known to the victim, such as a former lover, dating partner, or even a spouse.

Child Sexual Abuse

Instances of child sexual abuse are unfortunately increasing. In these cases, the child is typically manipulated, coerced, or pressured by an adult or adolescent perpetrator. The following are some examples of these cases:

• Forcible rape
• Psychological pressure exerted on the child for sexual gratification
• Exposure to pornographic images
• Consumption of child pornography
• Creating psychological pressure on a child for making them take part in a sexual act

Often, the perpetrators in these cases hold positions of authority and trust, such as parents, older siblings, relatives, priests, Boy Scout leaders, and camp counselors. These individuals betray the trust placed in them by the child. Consequently, victims frequently suffer from various long-term issues, including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and anxiety.

Victim’s Rights in Cases of Sexual Assault

In Youngstown, victims of sexual assault are entitled to the following rights:

• The ability to file a civil lawsuit for wage loss and compensation for physical and mental suffering
• The option to file a St.Clairsville OVI lawyer, depending on the severity of the case
• The right to push for permanent changes in workplace policies to prevent similar situations, including termination of the perpetrator
• The ability to lodge a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or the relevant state agency

Connect With Youngstown Sexual Assault Lawyer

If you are in Youngstown and in need of a sexual abuse lawyer, then look no further than St.Clairsville criminal lawyer. Our experienced clergy abuse lawyer in Youngstown will listen attentively and fight for your justice. To schedule a consultation, please contact us at (330) 992-3036.