Ocala Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Suffering sexual abuse is a horrific, devastating experience that carries long-lasting implications for many aspects of your life. You may get some closure from knowing that your abuser was arrested, prosecuted, and convicted through the Florida criminal justice system. However, no prison sentence can take away the losses you sustain. Even after you recover from the physical pain, you endure the emotional consequences of sexual abuse.

While you cannot erase the tragic circumstances from your mind, you can take legal action against the offender – and those responsible for allowing misconduct to happen. Our Ocala sexual abuse lawyers at the Glover Law Firm have decades of combined experience fighting for victims, so we’re prepared to help you get compensation for your extensive losses. Please contact us to set up a free consultation at our offices in The Villages or Ocala, FL, and read on for an overview about your rights.

Comparing Criminal and Civil Cases for Sexual Abuse

It’s true that the proceedings are closely tied, but there are key differences when assessing criminal cases and civil lawsuits. One of the primary distinctions works in your favor: The standard of proof is lower in a civil matter, so you only need to prove the essential elements of the case by a preponderance of the evidence. In a criminal proceeding, the prosecutor must prove that the defendant is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Another critical difference is the end result of a civil case, since you’re seeking monetary damages instead of punishment for the offender. 

Potential Parties in a Florida Sexual Abuse Claim

The abuser is the most obvious person that you’ll pursue in a civil sexual abuse case. Still, even though your rights may be clear, you could face challenges in collecting compensation. This individual may be imprisoned for an extended period and may not have sufficient assets or income to satisfy the judgment.

Fortunately, you may have legal options to seek monetary damages from other parties. When individuals or entities had knowledge of the sexual abuse and didn’t take action to prevent it, they may also be liable to pay compensation. The critical point in such a case is proving that other parties had a duty to protect you against sexual abuse. 

Time Limitations in Sexual Abuse Cases

Just as with other civil matters, there is a deadline for filing a lawsuit in court. However, Florida’s statute of limitations applies differently in sexual abuse cases as compared to other personal injury matters. As such, you need to initiate litigation within:

• Seven years after turning 18, if you were a minor at the time of the abuse; or,
• Four years after leaving the financial dependency of your abuser. 

What Our Clients Say

“Gordon is professional, patient, kind, and knowledgeable. From the first encounter I had with him, he was very kind and attentive. He was responsive throughout the entire process and consistently advocated for me. I would recommend him to anyone in need of legal counsel, as I had a very pleasant experience with him.”

By: April McDonald
Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Jan 1, 2022
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Schedule A Free Consultation With An Ocala Sexual Abuse Lawyer

If you were the victim of sexual abuse, you can trust our team at the Glover Law Firm to aggressively pursue all parties responsible for these reprehensible acts. We can tell you more about your legal remedies after reviewing your circumstances, so please contact our offices in The Villages and Ocala, FL today. You can call 352-484-0775 or email us to set up your no-cost consultation.