Sexual assault is a terrible crime that has long-term physical and emotional consequences for victims and their loved ones. Although perpetrators may be brought to justice and imprisoned under the criminal justice system, sexual abuse victims have a right to file a civil lawsuit to recover damages in Southern Missouri regardless of whether or not their attacker is convicted.
If you have been through the trauma of sexual assault, Privette Law Office can help. Our Southern Missouri sexual assault injury attorneys serve the surrounding counties of Springfield, Green County, and more. We are highly experienced, compassionate, and committed to justice. When you meet with us, we will listen to your story and determine the best way forward. We know that sexual assault survivors are often disbelieved, however, we will stand by you and fight for you during this difficult time.
If we can take on your claim, we will do everything in our power to get you meaningful compensation and bring you the justice you deserve. Reach out to our Willow Springs office today for a confidential, no-cost consultation.
How Is Sexual Assault Defined in Southern Missouri?
For purposes of a civil lawsuit, sexual assault involves any type of non-consensual or forced sexual contact with another person, such as:
- Rape or attempted rape
- Child sexual abuse
- Improper touching (groping)
- Indecent exposure
A common misconception is that sexual assault is perpetrated by strangers. In reality, the majority of sex crimes are committed by someone the victim knows – a friend, co-worker, teacher, coach, family member, neighbor, intimate partner, or acquaintance. Regardless of the identity of your attacker, you can depend on us to hold them accountable even if they are not prosecuted.
The Alarming Statistics on Sexual Assault or Sexual Abuse
It is shocking to know that a sexual assault occurs every 68 seconds in the U.S., according to RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network). Over 400,000 people over the age of 12 are victims of sexual assault or rape each year. Moreover, one out of six women has been the victim of rape or attempted rape during her lifetime.
While 9 out of every 10 victims of sexual assault are female, men can also be victims: about 3 percent of men have been victims of rape or attempted rape in their lifetime. Children are especially vulnerable: 60,000 children are sexually abused every year. Nearly one in four girls and one in ten boys are sexually assaulted before they turn 18.
Also, the majority of victims are assaulted at or near the home:
- 55 percent at or near the victim’s home
- 15 percent in an open, public space
- 12 percent at or near a relative’s home
- 10 percent in an enclosed public space (e.g. a parking lot or garage)
- 8 percent on school property
Despite these grim statistics, sexual violence has fallen by half in the last 20 years. However, only 25 out of every 1,000 rapists will end up in prison. Our sexual assault injury attorneys are committed to holding perpetrators accountable through civil litigation and helping victims of sexual assault throughout Southern Missouri obtain just compensation.
How Privette Law Office Can Help Abuse Victims
If you have been the victim of a sexual assault, you may be scared and not know where to turn. It is crucial to immediately contact law enforcement and seek medical treatment. Although prosecutors in Southern Missouri take sexual assault very seriously, more than 2 out of 3 go unreported.
While many perpetrators are never convicted, you have powerful legal recourse by filing a civil lawsuit. This is where Privette Law Office comes in. Our legal team will:
- Conduct a thorough investigation
- Collect evidence, including forensic evidence
- Interview any witnesses
- Collaborate with law enforcement to identify your attacker
- Pursue all legal remedies available to you
Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to recover the following damages:
- Medical expenses
- Costs of psychological counseling
- Lost wages – present and future
- Pain and suffering
- Scarring or permanent injury
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium
Because sexual assault is a malicious criminal act, you may also be awarded punitive damages that are designed to punish the defendants and deter others from similar misconduct. While prosecutors are responsible for bringing criminal charges against perpetrators, we will help you fight for justice in the form of civil damages, no matter where you are in Missouri.
Notably, it may also be possible to bring a lawsuit against a negligent third party, such as a business, school, the owner of an apartment complex, a government agency, or another individual or entity in Southern Missouri for failing to provide adequate security or protection. Above all, we will provide you with compassionate representation and protect your rights.
Contact Our Experienced Southern Missouri Sexual Assault Injury Attorneys Today!
Being sexually assaulted is an unthinkable violation of your bodily autonomy. Let our legal team work to ensure your safety, preserve your well-being, and help restore your dignity. You can trust us to right this wrong and get you the compensation you deserve. Because we understand your physical, emotional, and financial burdens, we will charge no attorneys’ fees until we recover for you. Contact our office today so we can start working on your claim.
Privette Law Office helps sexual assault victims across Southern Missouri including Howell County, Greene County, Wright County, and Butler County. We handle cases in cities such as Springfield, Poplar Bluff, West Plains, and Joplin all from our main office in Willow Springs.