People under the age of 18 are among the most vulnerable members of our society. Even if a child is able to understand they are being sexually abused, they may lack the physical strength to defend themselves or the confidence to speak to someone about it. Additionally, instances of sexual abuse can result in blocked memories or coping mechanisms that make it difficult for a child to express what has occurred.
If your child has experienced sexual assault, you can work with a seasoned attorney to file a civil lawsuit against the abuser. You could also come forward as an adult to demand compensation for an act of sexual abuse that occurred while you were a child. The sexual abuse of minors in Houma and Terrebonne Parish remains a major threat to society. Our law firm is here to help you and your family seek justice.
Who May Bear Liability for the Sexual Abuse of a Child?
The Parish seat of Terrebonne offers many educational, extracurricular, and daycare opportunities for children. Sadly, many schools, camps, and churches lack the resources or will to properly screen and train their staff members. This can result in children being put in the care of an abuser.
Of course, child abusers should be held personally liable for their actions. This may include both criminal prosecution and civil responsibility. However, their employers or supervisors may share blame for instances of sexual abuse.
Under the legal concept of respondeat superior, employers are liable for the actions of their workers while those workers are on the job. As a result, an attorney could fight to hold a school, daycare, social club, or church responsible for instances of child sexual assault perpetrated by their employees.
The Extension of Time Limits for Child Sex Abuse Victims
Louisiana Civil Code § 3492 sets a one-year time limit on most personal injury cases. Fortunately, this law may not apply to situations involving the sexual abuse of a minor. Recent changes codified in La. Civ. Code § 2800.9 now states that anyone who experienced sexual abuse while they were a child could bring a civil lawsuit forward at any point in the future if the criminal court convicted the attacker.
Similarly, the law creates a look-back period of three years wherein people whose cases would have previously been barred by the general statute of limitations can still demand compensation. An attorney could help adults determine if this new law allows them to pursue lawsuits against their abusers.
Reach Out to an Attorney After the Sexual Abuse of a Minor in Houma and Terrebonne Parish
The sexual abuse of minors is unfortunately common in Houma and Terrebonne Parish. Any person with a position of authority over a minor may feel that they can get away with inappropriate sexual conduct. If you or someone you love experienced sexual assault as a child, a lawyer from our firm could help you to evaluate your rights under state law.
Whether you are a parent looking out for your child or an adult seeking compensation for an event that happened in your childhood, you could hold the attacker and the other parties involved liable for your losses. Contact us today to explore your options.
