Seattle Sexual Abuse Attorneys Work to Secure Legal Relief for Victims
Accomplished Washington firm seeks to hold predators accountable
The effects of sexual abuse can be devastating and might not go away, even after years. If you were a victim, you may be reluctant to come forward, but an experienced Seattle sexual abuse attorney can help you pursue a measure of justice. At Mann & Kytle, PLLC in Seattle, our Washington attorneys have more than 70 years of combined experience providing effective, compassionate legal counsel to clients from around the state. We understand how difficult these claims can be for victims and are dedicated to securing compensation to help you move forward and hold your attacker legally accountable.
What is sexual abuse?
Various types of unwanted sexual activity can give rise to an abuse claim. These civil actions seeking monetary damages differ from criminal prosecutions for sexual assault. To succeed in a sex abuse civil trial, you need to show by a preponderance of the evidence that the defendant engaged in improper sexual acts with you against your will, causing physical and/or emotional harm. You are not required to prove your case beyond a reasonable doubt.
Who are frequent victims of sexual abuse?
Sexual predators often target the most vulnerable among us. Children, individuals with disabilities, the elderly and low-income workers are frequently victimized. Our Seattle personal injury attorneys are serious about our responsibility to pursue justice for people who have been mistreated. We have the skill and experience to take on abusers and those who enable them.
Sex abuse is often committed by people in a position of authority
We have seen that improper sexual contact frequently results from circumstances where an abuser is in some type of authority position over the victim. Sometimes, sexual harassment in the workplace escalates to the point of actionable abuse. Adults may also take advantage of their leadership roles in churches, schools, scout troops and athletic teams to attack children under their care. As attorneys with significant experience in this area, we explain what action can be taken against liable individuals and organizations.
Signs of sexual abuse
You should not hesitate to take action if you suspect someone is being harmed in a nursing home, school or another setting, especially if they might not be able to speak up for themselves. Sudden changes in behavior, unexplained injuries or marks in sensitive areas and sleeping problems can be signs of sexual abuse in children and adults.
How long do you have to file a sex abuse claim in Washington?
Victims of sexual abuse in Washington may file a lawsuit many years after the actual incident takes place. The state’s statute of limitations authorizes litigation for three years after the injury is recognized, but it could take many years, or even decades, for the harm stemming from sexual abuse to present itself. In other instances, a previously discovered physical or mental condition might not be linked to past sex abuse until much later on. Regardless of when the misconduct occurred, our attorneys can review the facts in your case and assess whether litigation can be brought.
Contact an experienced Seattle lawyer if you’ve been the victim of sexual abuse
Mann & Kytle, PLLC seeks legal relief for sexual abuse victims throughout the state. To schedule an appointment with a dedicated attorney, please call 206-457-2057 or contact us online. Our office is in Downtown Seattle.
