Florida Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Our Lawyers Represent Victims of Sexual Abuse and Assault in Florida

Attorney Lynette S. Byrd
Sexual Abuse and Sexual Assault Team Lead
Former DOJ Attorney

This is an active lawsuit and none of the allegations against the defendant(s) have been proven. The contents of this page reflect the allegations in the litigation.

The trauma of sexual abuse can leave lasting scars, impacting every aspect of a victim’s life. In Florida, survivors have legal recourse to hold their abusers accountable and seek the justice they deserve.

Navigating the complex legal landscape after such a deeply personal violation can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Understanding your rights and options is the first step toward healing and recovery.

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual abuse in Florida, the time to act is now. Protect your rights and explore your legal options with the help of Oberheiden Law Group’s legal team. Our Florida sexual abuse lawyers are here to guide you.

What Florida Sexual Assault and Sexual Abuse Victims Should Know

The aftermath of sexual assault and abuse can be a disorienting and traumatic experience. Victims of sex crimes often grapple with complex emotions, fear, and uncertainty about their future. In Florida, survivors have legal rights and options available to them, and understanding these rights is essential for reclaiming control and seeking justice.

Your Legal Rights Aren’t Determined by the Perpetrator’s Criminal Guilt

It’s important to understand that the criminal justice system and civil legal action operate independently. Even if law enforcement doesn’t pursue criminal charges, or if a perpetrator is acquitted in criminal or civil court, you can still pursue a civil lawsuit.

The burden of proof in a civil case differs, requiring a “preponderance of the evidence” rather than “beyond a reasonable doubt.” Sexually assaulted individuals may be able to obtain justice and compensation even if a criminal conviction isn’t obtained. Your experience and your trauma are valid, regardless of the outcome of any criminal proceedings.

You May Be Able to Get Financial Compensation

Sexual assault and abuse can lead to significant financial burdens, including medical bills, therapy costs, lost wages, and emotional distress. Through a civil lawsuit, you may be able to recover compensation for these damages.

This compensation can help you access the resources you need to heal and rebuild your life. You can hold the responsible party accountable and obtain the financial support necessary for recovery.

Legal Action Protects You and Others

Taking legal action is not only about seeking justice for yourself. It can also help protect others from future harm. By holding perpetrators accountable, you can prevent them from abusing others.

Your courage to come forward can break the cycle of abuse and create a safer community. Furthermore, legal action can help bring to light systemic issues that enable sexual abuse, leading to changes in policies and practices.

Oberheiden Law Group Doesn’t Charge You Anything Up Front

Navigating the legal system can be daunting, especially when facing financial constraints. Oberheiden Law Group understands these challenges and offers consultations without any upfront fees.

We believe that everyone deserves access to legal representation, regardless of their ability to pay. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if you recover compensation. This allows you to pursue justice without the added stress of immediate legal costs.

Alternative Paths to Justice for Florida Sexual Abuse Victims

While criminal prosecution is one avenue for justice, other options may be available depending on your circumstances. These include:

Civil Lawsuit: Your Florida sexual abuse attorney can help you file a civil lawsuit and seek compensation that will promote healing and justice.
Reporting to Law Enforcement: While not always the right path for everyone, reporting to the police and local law enforcement can provide access to protection regardless of whether it leads to criminal charges.
Title IX Complaints: If the assault or sex abuse occurred in an educational setting, you may be able to file a complaint under Title IX, a federal law that prohibits sex-based discrimination in education programs.
Internal Investigations: Some institutions, such as workplaces or religious organizations, may conduct internal investigations into allegations of sexual misconduct.
Therapy and Support Groups: Seeking professional help is essential for healing from the trauma of sexual assault and abuse. Therapists and support groups can provide a safe space to process your emotions and develop coping mechanisms.

Oberheiden Law Group encourages clients to get the justice they deserve in any way possible. We can help you file a civil lawsuit, communicate with law enforcement and other investigative bodies, and get the medical help you need.

Types of Florida Sexual Abuse and Assault Cases We Handle

We are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to sexual assault survivors in Florida. We handle a range of cases, recognizing that each victim’s experience is unique and requires personalized attention. Our commitment is to hold perpetrators accountable and secure the justice our clients deserve.

We represent individuals who have experienced various forms of sexual abuse and assault, including those that may have occurred recently or many years ago. Our experience extends to cases involving:

Child Sexual Abuse: These cases often involve a position of trust or authority, such as a family member, teacher, religious leader, or coach. The long-term trauma associated with child sexual abuse requires specialized legal counsel.
Sexual Harassment: Unwelcome sexual advances, unwanted sexual acts, sexual battery, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature create a hostile environment and can constitute sexual harassment, particularly in workplaces or educational settings.
Institutional Abuse: This type of abuse occurs within institutions like schools, prisons, or religious organizations, often involving a pattern of abuse perpetrated by multiple individuals or facilitated by systemic failures.
Clergy Abuse: Sexual abuse by members of the clergy represents a profound betrayal of trust and often involves unique legal complexities.

Sexual Exploitation: Abuse of power or trust to coerce someone into sexual activity.
Online Sexual Abuse: This includes the distribution of child sexual abuse material and other forms of online sexual exploitation.

These are just a few examples of sexual abuse and sexual violence cases that we can help you with. At Oberheiden Law Group, we are committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for people who have suffered sexual abuse to share their stories.

Our Florida sexual assault lawyers understand the sensitive nature of these sexual assault cases and handle each one with the utmost discretion and compassion, keeping in mind your physical and psychological injuries.

During our confidential consultation of your sex abuse case, our legal team will take you through the legal process, explain how we gather evidence and medical records, detail the civil justice system, break down sexual crimes, and help you achieve justice by holding your sex offender accountable by getting as much compensation.

Dr. Nick Oberheiden

Founder

Attorney-at-Law

Lynette S. Byrd

Former DOJ Trial Attorney

Partner

Brian J. Kuester

Former U.S. Attorney

Hon. Kevin McCarthy

55th Speaker, U.S. House of Representatives (ret.)

Government Consultant

Mike Pompeo

Of Counsel

Former U.S. Secretary of State

John W. Sellers

Former Senior DOJ Trial Attorney

Linda Julin McNamara

Federal Appeals Attorney

Nicholas B. Johnson

Former Prosecutor

Roger Bach

Former Special Agent (DOJ)

Chris J. Quick

Former Special Agent (FBI & IRS-CI)

Michael S. Koslow

Former Supervisory Special Agent (DOD-OIG)

Ray Yuen

Former Supervisory Special Agent (FBI)

FAQs: Filing a Sexual Abuse and Sexual Assault Claim in Florida

What Constitutes Sexual Abuse and Sexual Assault in California?

Florida law defines sexual abuse and sexual assault broadly. It includes any unwanted sexual contact, ranging from unwanted touching to rape. Key elements often include:

Lack of Consent: Consent must be freely and actively given. It cannot be assumed or implied. Coercion, force, or manipulation negate consent.
Sexual Contact: This encompasses a wide range of actions, including penetration, touching of intimate body parts, and oral sex.
Victim’s Condition: If the sexual assault victim is incapacitated due to drugs, alcohol, or a mental or physical condition, they cannot legally consent.

How Long Do I Have to File a Civil Lawsuit for Sexual Assault in Florida?

Florida has specific time limits, known as statutes of limitations, for filing civil lawsuits for sexual assault. These deadlines can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the abuse and who the perpetrator was.

For example, the statute of limitations for civil claims involving childhood sexual abuse was recently amended, allowing more time for survivors to come forward. It is important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to determine the applicable statute of limitations in your case. Missing the deadline can bar you from pursuing legal action.

What Types of Damages Can I Recover in a Florida Sexual Abuse Lawsuit?

You may be able to recover various types of damages, including compensator (economic and non-economic) and punitive damages.

Compensatory damages are intended to compensate you for your losses, such as medical expenses, therapy costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.

Punitive damages are intended to punish the perpetrator for their egregious conduct and deter similar behavior in the future. They are typically awarded only in cases involving particularly egregious or malicious acts.

Can I Keep My Identity Confidential When I File a Florida Sexual Abuse Case?

While complete anonymity is often not possible in legal proceedings, your attorney can work to protect your privacy as much as possible. Certain legal mechanisms may be available to limit the public disclosure of your name and other identifying information.

Additionally, Oberheiden Law Group can handle all media inquiries on your behalf. We will answer their questions, present the facts, and manage any negative press, if necessary.

How Much Does a Florida Sexual Abuse Lawyer Cost?

Many attorneys, including Oberheiden Law Group, handle these cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you do not pay any upfront fees. The attorney’s fees are a percentage of any compensation you recover. This arrangement makes legal representation accessible to survivors, regardless of their financial situation.

Get Justice You Deserve with the Help of Oberheiden Law Group

Understanding your rights and exploring your legal options are important steps towards reclaiming your life after sexual abuse. At Oberheiden Law Group, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and experienced legal representation to survivors in Florida.

Our Florida sexual assault lawyers understand the sensitive nature of these cases and are committed to fighting for the justice you deserve. Don’t let the trauma of the past dictate your future. Take control and seek the legal counsel you need to hold your abuser accountable.

Oberheiden Law Group has free legal advice for you and your loved ones who have been affected by sexual abuse. Call 888-680-1745 or reach out online today for a confidential and free consultation of your case with our Florida sex abuse attorneys.

Further Information About Our Lawyers for Victims of Sexual Abuse and Sexual Assault Lawsuit Services

Disclaimer:
The content on this site is informational only and describes mere allegations. The content does not suggest evidence, proof, or guaranteed liability. The merits of each case depend on specific facts. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes in future cases. For more details, please see our FTC and general disclaimers. Oberheiden Law is the law firm in charge.