How To File A Sex Abuse Lawsuit In Florida
Contributor
Reviewed By Adam Ramirez, J.D.
Editor
Summary
- A sex abuse lawsuit could help you recover compensation as you heal
- How long you have to file depends on your age and other factors
- An experienced sexual assault attorney can offer valuable guidance
Sexual abuse is an experience that can leave lifelong scars, both emotional and physical. Regardless of whether the perpetrator faced charges, finding some sense of justice and closure can be difficult.
If you’re a survivor of sexual abuse in Florida, pursuing criminal charges isn’t the only way you can get justice. In some cases, filing a sexual abuse lawsuit may be the best way forward. With aid from a sexual assault attorney, you can have the legal support you need as your perpetrator is held accountable for their devastating actions.
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The Process for a Sexual Abuse Lawsuit in Florida
When filing a sexual abuse lawsuit in the state of Florida, survivors will typically partner with an experienced attorney, who will follow these steps:
- Initial consultation
- Investigation and gathering evidence
- Filing a lawsuit on your behalf
- Attempting to negotiate a settlement
- Representing you in court if needed
Filing a claim can take courage. If you ultimately decide to file a lawsuit for sexual abuse in Florida, your attorney can make sure you know what to expect along the way.
Damages Survivors Can Seek in Florida
In a lawsuit for sexual abuse in Florida, you may recover both non-economic and economic damages, which can include:
- Medical bills
- Lost income from having to take time off work
- Pain and suffering
- Estimated future financial losses
The types of damages you can recover vary widely. An experienced attorney can evaluate your case and give you a clear idea of what it might be worth.
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How Long Do I Have to File a Claim in Florida?
Like many states, Florida has extended its statute of limitations for civil lawsuits stemming from sexual abuse. If you were the victim of a sexual offense before the age of 16, there is no time limit on when you may file a lawsuit. However, the statute of limitations was only removed for cases that would have been time-barred after July 1, 2010.
If you’re an adult survivor of sexual abuse, you must file a lawsuit by the later of these two deadlines:
- Within four years of becoming independent from the perpetrator
- Within four years of discovering that sexual abuse caused the harm you’re experiencing
Understanding statutes of limitations when it comes to sexual abuse can sometimes be challenging. It’s generally best to consult a lawyer to determine how long you have to file.
Sex Abuse Lawsuit: Who Can I Sue?
In a lawsuit for sexual abuse in Florida, different parties may be liable. You might choose to sue the individual abuser as well as their employer. This is particularly common in lawsuits over sexual abuse in schools, churches, and other institutions.
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Choosing a Civil Sexual Abuse Lawyer in Florida
If you’re considering filing a lawsuit for sexual abuse, you don’t need just any Florida personal injury lawyer. You need an attorney with extensive experience handling sexual abuse cases.
When you’re not sure how to connect with the right lawyer, ConsumerShield can help. Fill out our contact form to get started with a free, no-obligation case review today.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Most lawyers who handle sexual abuse lawsuits work on contingency, so you only pay if they recover compensation for you.
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That depends. Straightforward cases that settle may be resolved in a few months, but cases that go to trial could take years.
