Cape Girardeau, MO Sexual Abuse Lawyer

As a sexual abuse survivor, you may feel confused and alone after you experience sexual abuse. Our Cape Girardeau, MO, sexual abuse lawyers are ready to hold your abuser accountable for their wrongdoing.

Morelli Law Firm has recovered over $1 billion in settlements in our 25 years of experience. Our Cape Girardeau, MO, personal injury lawyers can help you recover compensation for the losses the abuse has caused.

How Long Do You Have to File a Sexual Abuse Claim?

If the abuse happened when you were 18 or older, you have five years from the abuse to file a claim. However, if you were a child during the abuse, you have 10 years from when you turn 18 years old to file a claim.

We understand that knowing exactly when to file your claim can be difficult. Our team of Cape Girardeau, MO, sexual abuse lawyers can examine your case and determine exactly how long you have to file. If you fail to file your claim within your statute of limitations, you won’t be able to recover any compensation.

Common Types of Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse comes in many forms. When you’re a survivor, you may feel unsure if your abuse qualifies for a case. Here are some prevalent forms of sexual abuse:

Physical Sexual Abuse

Physical sexual abuse involves any non-consensual physical contact of a sexual nature. This includes acts such as unwanted touching, groping, forced penetration, or any form of sexual assault or violence.

Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment refers to unwanted sexual advances, comments, or conduct that creates a hostile or intimidating environment. It can occur in various settings, including the workplace, educational institutions, or public spaces, and may involve verbal, written, or physical behaviors.

Child Sexual Abuse

Child sexual abuse involves any sexual activity or behavior inflicted upon a child by an adult or an older individual. This includes inappropriate touching, exposure to explicit materials, sexual exploitation, grooming, or any other form of sexual interaction that exploits the vulnerability of a child.

Sexual Exploitation

Sexual exploitation entails manipulating or coercing someone into engaging in sexual acts for personal gain or the gratification of others. This can include activities such as sex trafficking, pornography production, or forcing someone into prostitution.

Online Sexual Abuse

With the rise of the digital age, online sexual abuse has become increasingly prevalent. It involves the use of technology, such as the internet or social media platforms, to harass, groom, exploit, or coerce individuals into engaging in sexual activities against their will.

What Compensation Can You Recover After Sexual Abuse?

As a survivor of sexual abuse, you have the legal right to recover compensation for your losses. Our sexual abuse lawyers in Cape Girardeau, MO, can help you recover compensation such as:

• Loss of consortium: This refers to the loss of companionship, support, and intimacy resulting from the sexual abuse. It compensates for the impact the abuse has had on your relationships and emotional well-being.
• Medical expenses: You can seek compensation for the costs associated with medical treatment, therapy, counseling, medications, and any other healthcare expenses related to sexual abuse.
• Transportation: This covers the expenses incurred for transportation to and from medical appointments, therapy sessions, or any other necessary services directly related to your recovery from the abuse.
• Loss of income: If the sexual abuse has resulted in missed work, decreased earning capacity, or an inability to pursue employment opportunities, you can seek compensation for the income you have lost or will continue to lose.
• Loss of enjoyment of life: This compensation acknowledges the negative impact the abuse has had on your ability to participate in and enjoy activities you once found pleasure in. It accounts for the loss of quality of life and the limitations imposed by the abuse.
• Pain and suffering: This compensation is meant to address the physical and emotional pain, trauma, and distress caused by the sexual abuse. It encompasses the psychological effects, anxiety, depression, and other mental anguish resulting from the abuse.

How Can a Sexual Abuse Attorney in Cape Girardeau, MO, Help You Build a Case?

When you’ve experienced sexual abuse, our sexual abuse attorneys can provide invaluable assistance in building a strong legal case. Here’s how Morelli Law Firm can support you throughout the process:

Providing You With Legal Guidance and Support

We understand the emotional and legal challenges you may face after experiencing sexual abuse. We will offer compassionate support, explain your rights, and help you through the legal process. Our goal is to ensure that you feel informed, empowered, and supported at every stage.

Conducting a Comprehensive Case Evaluation

We will conduct a thorough evaluation of your case, examining all available evidence, including medical records, photographs, videos, and any other documentation related to the abuse. We will also review witness statements and gather additional evidence to assess the strength of your claim.

Gathering Evidence and Witness Testimonies

Building a strong case requires gathering compelling evidence. We will work closely with you to gather any relevant evidence, such as text messages, emails, or other forms of communication that substantiate your claims. Additionally, we will interview witnesses who can provide testimony supporting your case.

Engaging With Experts and Professionals

Expert opinions can be crucial in complex sexual abuse cases. We have established professional networks and can engage medical experts, psychologists, or other specialists to provide expert opinions that strengthen your case. Our professional insights can help establish the extent of the harm you have suffered.

Negotiating With Insurance Companies and Opposing Parties

If your case involves insurance claims or negotiations with opposing parties, we will handle all communication on your behalf. We have experience dealing with insurance companies and defense attorneys, and we will advocate for your rights and seek a fair settlement that compensates you for the damages you have endured.

Contact Our Cape Girardeau, MO, Sexual Abuse Attorneys

At Morelli Law Firm, we can help you get justice in the form of compensation for the sexual abuse you went through. Our sexual abuse lawyers in Cape Girardeau, MO, offer a free consultation to all of our new clients. 

Contact us for a free consultation today.