If you’ve been the victim of a horrific event, like sexual abuse for instance, the experience can be life shattering. Learning to get through the day-to-day activities of life can be an overwhelming ordeal. If you are a family member watching your loved one go through this process, the experience can have its own effects on you, too.
It’s important to know that you don’t have to suffer in silence. Do not let any abuser or situation shame you into thinking your dignity, self-respect, and personal life are of little to no worth. You are not alone, and you are not responsible for the sexual crimes committed against you.
If you do choose to pursue legal action against your perpetrator, there are a few things to keep in mind that will help your sexual abuse attorney best serve you and your case:
- Seek counseling first – A trained therapist or psychologist can help you come to grips with your victimization. This can help you communicate a clear, consistent account of your abuse. It will also help you learn to cope with the stress and emotions that may surface in the midst of a legal case.
- Have clear communication with your attorney – This includes returning phone calls, keeping scheduled consultations, and speaking as honestly as you can about the abuse. Remember… we are on your side. We want to help you get the justice you deserve.
- Keep records of any communication between you and your abuser – Saved emails, letters, text messages, pictures, or videos can help to corroborate your story in a situation that is typically viewed as “your story against theirs.” This will help your attorney structure a solid case against your abuser or the organization he/she works with.
As much as we would want to be able to serve every client that approaches us about a sexual abuse claim, the reality is, we cannot help every person in need. We primarily serve victims of childhood sexual abuse, and due to the nature of these cases, a statute of limitations in Illinois, and the intense nature of these cases, it’s important for victims to contact us in a timely manner. But also important to consider is the fact that victims need to understand the emotional effects that such legal action can have. Having external support—through counseling, family, or a support group—can help victims as they have to recount the events of their abuse.
If you have questions about childhood sexual abuse, and whether or not you might have a legal case against your perpetrator, please feel free to contact our compassionate, experienced, and professional attorneys at Lane Brown to schedule a free, confidential consultation today.
