There are very few things in life that are more emotionally scarring than being the victim of sexual abuse as a child. For many child sex abuse survivors, it takes decades to work through the incredibly complex mix of confusion, anger, shame, and depression caused by these horrific acts. Often, it is a huge step for these victims to even be able to admit what happened to others who love them.
If you or a loved one has been the victim of sexual abuse as a child, you have the right to file a civil lawsuit against the person who committed the abuse, as well as any other person or institution responsible for allowing the abuse to occur. This can include the church or school who employed and/or supervised the child predator.
The sexual abuse lawyers at Wapner Newman have helped many child sex abuse victims hold these predators accountable for their reprehensible actions. We have seen firsthand the devastation sexual abuse causes to the victims and their families, and we will stand by your side every step of the way. Holding sexual predators accountable can help you gain closure to a tragic and traumatic chapter in your life, and it can also help prevent others from being victimized in the same way.
Pennsylvania Laws Governing Sexual Abuse Lawsuits
In 2007, the Pennsylvania legislature enacted a law extending the statute of limitations for a minor victim of sexual abuse. In Pennsylvania, perpetrators of sexual abuse can now be prosecuted until the child victim’s 50th birthday.
This new statute of limitations for child sexual abuse applies to the following charges:
- Rape
- Statutory sexual assault
- Aggravated indecent assault
- Indecent assault
- Indecent exposure
- Incest
- Endangering the welfare of children
- Corruption of minors
- Sexual abuse of children
- Sexual exploitation of children
Philadelphia Sexual Abuse Attorneys at Wapner Newman Can Help
The sexual abuse scandal at Penn state hit home very hard for the lawyers at Wapner Newman. This scandal serves as a cruel reminder of how easily an adult can take advantage of our impressionable youth. Simply put, this is unacceptable, and our Philadelphia sexual abuse lawyers are committed to helping protect those children who have been victimized.
At Wapner Newman, we will do everything possible to help you heal. We will fight aggressively to take back the power from these predators and the institutions which looked the other way, allowing sexual abuse to continue unfettered. We will work closely with you to help you move on from this devastating incident, providing you compassionate guidance throughout the entire process.
Please contact a sexual abuse lawyer Wapner Newman today to schedule your free initial consultation. We serve clients throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey, with offices in Philadelphia, West Conshohocken, Allentown, and Marlton.