Practice Areas
Sexual Abuse
Confidential representation for survivors across Florida.
Sexual abuse causes devastating physical, emotional, and psychological harm. Survivors deserve compassionate representation and accountability from those responsible. Our sexual abuse lawyer in Fort Lauderdale provides confidential guidance and pursues justice through civil claims.
Survivor of sexual abuse seeking justice in Florida?
Understanding Civil Sexual Abuse Claims
Sexual abuse cases may involve criminal prosecution and separate civil lawsuits seeking financial compensation for survivors.
A civil lawsuit is distinct from any criminal proceeding and applies a lower burden of proof. Survivors must establish liability by a preponderance of the evidence rather than beyond a reasonable doubt. Florida law permits claims against perpetrators and third parties whose negligence enabled the abuse, including institutions that failed to screen employees, supervise staff, or respond to warning signs.
Who May Be Liable
- Individual perpetrators responsible for unlawful and abusive conduct.
- Schools and educational institutions failing to protect students.
- Churches, youth programs, and sports organizations ignoring warning signs.
- Employers failing to conduct background checks or supervision.
- Hotels or venues providing inadequate security measures.
- Healthcare facilities failing to safeguard vulnerable patients.
- Property owners neglecting reasonable security protections.
Damages Available To Sexual Abuse Survivors
Compensation for physical and emotional harm
- Medical Treatment Costs
- Therapy And Counseling
Additional Recoverable Damages
- Lost wages and earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering damages.
- Emotional distress and mental anguish.
- Loss of enjoyment of life.
- Permanent psychological trauma.
- Punitive damages in severe cases.
Steps To Take After Sexual Abuse
Prioritize safety and protect your legal rights.
- Seek medical care
- Report incident
- Avoid public statements
- Consult civil attorney
- Preserve evidence
- Document communications
- Contact trusted support
- Maintain confidentiality
Florida Laws Protecting Survivors
Florida law provides extended timeframes and civil remedies allowing survivors to pursue justice beyond criminal prosecution.
Separate Civil Action
Independent from criminal prosecution proceedings.
Lower Burden Standard
Preponderance of evidence required.
Extended Filing Periods
Expanded deadlines for certain abuse claims.
Institutional Negligence Claims
Liability for failing to prevent foreseeable abuse.
Negligent Security
Failure to provide adequate protection.
Comparative Fault Principles
Apportionment among responsible parties permitted.
Confidential Court Filings
Protective measures safeguard survivor identity.
Florida Statute Of Limitations Explained
Important Filing Deadlines
Florida has enacted laws extending the statute of limitations for certain sexual abuse claims, particularly those involving minors. Survivors may have additional time to file civil actions depending on when the abuse occurred and when the harm was discovered.
For incidents occurring after July 1, 2010, victims generally have until age twenty five or within four years of discovering injury caused by the abuse. Time limits vary based on specific circumstances and defendants involved.
Consulting an experienced sexual abuse lawyer in Fort Lauderdale promptly ensures applicable deadlines are identified and evidence preserved.
Compensation In Florida Sexual Abuse Cases
Economic Damages
Survivors may pursue compensation for measurable financial losses resulting from abuse and related trauma.
- Medical Expenses
Costs of emergency treatment, hospital care, medications, and ongoing medical services related to physical injuries. - LoTherapy Costs
Counseling, psychiatric care, trauma therapy, and long term mental health treatment expenses. - Lost Income
Wages lost due to recovery, missed work, or diminished future earning capacity.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages compensate for the human impact of being struck, including pain, trauma, and lifestyle changes.
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Permanent disability
- Emotional trauma
- Loss of consortium
- Punitive damages
Speak With A Sexual Abuse Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one is a survivor of sexual abuse in Fort Lauderdale, you deserve compassionate and confidential legal guidance. The Graham Injury Firm represents survivors throughout Broward County and across Florida. Attorney Josiah Graham has recovered more than fifty million dollars for injury victims and approaches every case with dignity, discretion, and determination. Our legal team investigates institutional negligence, third party liability, and civil remedies designed to provide financial accountability for the harm suffered.
Don’t wait, your time to act is limited. Contact Graham Injury Law Firm before time’s up
Don’t Wait to Get the Justice You Deserve
Time matters after an injury. Evidence fades, witnesses forget, and insurance companies move fast to protect their own interests. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can start building your case and protecting your rights.
Graham Injury Firm is ready to fight for you, today.
Over $50M+ recovered.
Recognized Leadership.
Community-Driven Advocacy.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire Graham Injury Firm?
No Fee Unless We Win.
No Upfront Cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers You Can Trust
How much does a sexual abuse lawyer cost in Fort Lauderdale?
The Graham Injury Firm handles sexual abuse cases on a contingency fee basis. This means that pay nothing until we recover compensation for you and your family. We understand the sensitive nature of these cases and want to remove any financial barriers to seeking justice, therefore your consultation is free and completely confidential.
Can I file a civil lawsuit for sexual abuse even if no criminal charges were filed?
Yes, a civil lawsuit is separate from criminal proceedings. You do not need a criminal conviction or even criminal charges to file a civil claim for damages. The burden of proof is lower in civil cases. The Graham Injury Firm can help you pursue compensation for medical bills, therapy costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering in your civil case whether or not there were also criminal charges filed.
How long do I have to file a sexual abuse lawsuit in Florida?
Florida has extended the statute of limitations for sexual abuse cases. For incidents occurring on or after July 1, 2010, victims generally have until age 25 or within four years of discovering the abuse caused their injuries. The laws vary depending on the circumstances, so contact the Graham Injury Firm for guidance specific to your case because the failure to comply with these time frames can result in the denial of your claim.
Don’t Wait to Get the Help You Deserve
We know how overwhelming this moment feels, but acting quickly can make all the difference. Our team is ready to step in today, handle the pressure, and fight for the results you deserve.