Sexual Abuse Lawyers In Florida

Sexual violence and abuse continues to plague society at an alarming rate. Due to the staggering number of incidents each year, there are severe rules and legal consequences in place to help ensure the culprits involved are held responsible and victims are protected.

Horowitz Law believes every survivor deserves a voice and the opportunity to hold their abuser accountable. We are passionate about advocating for Florida clients’ legal rights, helping ensure they receive the support, validation and compensation they deserve. With experience handling and recovering some of the largest verdicts and settlements in the U.S., your case is in safe hands with our Fort Lauderdale team.

Types Of Sexual Assault And Sexual Abuse Cases

Sexual abuse impact can be profound, affecting every aspect of a survivor’s life. Taking legal action against an abuser can be an empowering step in the healing process. We handle various types of sexual abuse cases, including:

• Rideshare sexual assault involving Uber and Lyft drivers
• Child sexual abuse and adult survivors of child sexual abuse
• Clergy or religious institution abuse
• Abuse involving teacher-student relationships or in educational settings
• Rape and workplace sexual assault
• Nursing home and elder care facility abuse
• Youth activities and sports leagues
• Daycares, Pre-Schools and Aftercare Programs

No case is too complex for our dedicated legal team. We are committed to seeking justice for survivors, regardless of the circumstances or the identity of the abuser.

Legal Steps To Take If You Are A Survivor Of Sexual Assault

Your safety and well-being are the top priorities after such a traumatic experience. Once you are in a secure environment, we encourage you to:

• Seek immediate medical care: Try to ensure you receive proper counseling and treatment. Allow medical staff to collect crucial evidence if you decide to pursue legal action.
• Report the assault: As much as speaking up is tremendously difficult, it’s also an important first step. Report the abuse to law enforcement in the city or county where it occurred. If you’re not ready to go to the police, call RAINN’s (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) National Sexual Assault Hotline for help.
• Preserve evidence: Keep any text messages, photos, videos, e-mails, receipts, and appointment records. Preserve clothing and other items from the incident without washing them, as these could be vital for building your legal case.

Since such moments are always more confusing, you are better off seeking the services of an attorney for extensive legal guidance. Our dedicated attorneys at Horowitz Law are here to support you through the legal process of holding your abuser accountable.

Florida Statute Of Limitations For Filing A Sexual Abuse Claim

Knowing the time constraints for filing a civil lawsuit in Florida is very important for your case at hand. The statute of limitations varies depending on the circumstances of the case:

• Broadly, an adult victim of sexual abuse has two years to file a civil claim after the last instance of abuse. There are exceptions so it is important to talk to a lawyer knowledgeable about the statute of limitations specific to these claims.
• If the victim was under age 16 at the time of abuse, there is no statute of limitations on their claim. Florida eliminated the statute of limitations for civil claims for such minors in 2010. However, a different statute of limitations may apply to older cases.

Since these timelines can be complex to interpret and continue to evolve, our team can carefully evaluate your case and help ensure that your claim is filed within the appropriate time frame. Acting quickly is important, however, to preserve your legal rights and options.

Why You Need An Attorney After Suffering Sexual Abuse In Florida

While the state attorney’s office handles the criminal prosecution of sexual offenders, a skilled sexual abuse lawyer plays an important role in pursuing civil cases and financial compensation for your suffering.

At the same time, it can be difficult for victims of sexual abuse to step forward. We know the complicated issues involved and are here to guide you through every legal step. With utmost sensitivity, our firm can:

• Manage all legal aspects of building and litigating your case
• Connect you with counseling and support resources
• Handle cases involving sexual assault by authority figures
• Guide you through the process of coming forward about past childhood abuse

Each survivor’s journey is unique. In that case, our legal approach is tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sexual Abuse Claims

Our attorneys at Horowitz Law believe that all survivors of sexual abuse have a right to justice. We do this by taking victims seriously and answering any of their questions. Here are some frequently asked questions about sexual abuse:

What is the law on sexual abuse in Florida?

Sexual abuse in Florida is any kind of sexual act or conduct forced on another person. This is any type of unwanted sexual activity that is forced onto a person, such as:

• Unwanted touching
• Kissing
• Forced sexual contact
• Sexual coercion
• Exploitation
• Rape
• Domestic violence

If a victim of sexual abuse pursues a legal case, the defendant could face severe penalties. For example, a conviction can result in over 30 years to life in jail. This can protect survivors and other victims from repeated sexual abuse. Our attorneys at Horowitz Law will help our clients hold abusers accountable for their actions. 

What happens when sexual abuse is reported?

One of the main goals of reporting sexual abuse is to prevent further sexual activity. Once a report is made, an investigator should respond within 24 hours. The investigator should reach out to the victim and collect information or evidence about the abuse. The investigator will review the evidence and decide whether the report was correct. 

How long do you have to make a sexual assault claim?

The statute of limitation in Florida to file a sexual abuse claim is two years from the date of the assault. This can give survivors time to collect evidence, understand their legal rights and seek justice. If a survivor of sexual abuse waits longer than two years to make a claim, there may be fewer opportunities to seek justice and compensation. There are some exceptions to the statute of limitations, such as for children under 16 years of age who were sexually abused.

What proof is needed in a sexual assault case?

Evidence is important to verify a sexual assault claim. This evidence can include:

• DNA samples
• Video footage
• Pictures
• Emergency room reports
• Therapy notes
• Medical reports
• Witnesses
• Abuser’s history of violence

Survivors may find it difficult to relive their experiences as they gather the necessary evidence for a sexual assault case. Our attorneys can work alongside clients to help them gather the evidence they need for a successful claim.

Your Voice And Story Matters

Horowitz Law acknowledges that coming forward and sharing your story is a courageous act that requires immense strength and resilience. Our lawyers in Fort Lauderdale are committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where you can share your experience without fear or judgment. Call us today at 888-283-9922 or email us for a free and confidential consultation.