Survivors of sexual abuse face immense emotional, psychological, and physical challenges as they begin the complex process of healing. While the journey toward recovery can be overwhelming, understanding your legal rights as a survivor in South Carolina can empower you, provide clarity, and offer a path toward justice and closure.
Our David W. Martin Accident & Injury Lawyers can help.
Your Right to Pursue Legal Action as a South Carolina Sexual Abuse Survivor
In South Carolina, survivors of sexual abuse have the legal right to hold their abusers and responsible parties accountable through both criminal and civil courts. While criminal cases focus primarily on punishment through the criminal justice system, civil lawsuits allow survivors to seek compensation for the damages they have endured.
Civil actions can address emotional trauma, therapy costs, medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering resulting from the abuse.
Statutes of Limitations for Sexual Abuse Claims in South Carolina
It is essential to understand that South Carolina sets specific time limits, known as statutes of limitations, within which survivors must file civil lawsuits or in which criminal charges can be brough. The statute of limitations varies based on circumstances, such as the survivor’s age when the abuse occurred.
In South Carolina, the timeframe within which to file a civil claim varies. For survivors of sexual abuse, the civil claim must be commenced within six (6) years after the survivor turns twenty-one (21) years of age or within three (3) years from the time of discovery of an injury by the survivor and the casual relationship between the injury and the sexual abuse. Because of this vagueness and the specific circumstances of each case, the timelines can alter, so consulting an experienced attorney is critical. In South Carolina, there is no statute of limitations for criminal prosecution of sexual abuse.
Who Can Be Held Liable for Sexual Abuse in South Carolina?
In addition to the direct perpetrator, other entities or individuals might also bear responsibility for enabling or failing to prevent the abuse. These can include institutions such as schools, religious organizations, childcare facilities, healthcare providers, and other entities with a legal duty to protect the survivor but failed to do so. Proving negligence by these organizations or institutions can help survivors obtain additional accountability and compensation.
Your Privacy and Confidentiality During a South Carolina Sexual Abuse Claim
Coming forward about sexual abuse can be intimidating, but South Carolina law prioritizes protecting survivors’ privacy. The legal process offers mechanisms for confidentiality, shielding survivors from unnecessary public exposure and helping them feel secure and respected throughout proceedings. An experienced attorney will carefully guide you through each step, ensuring your privacy rights are consistently upheld.
How an Experienced Attorney Can Help
Navigating the legal process as a sexual abuse survivor is profoundly challenging and emotionally taxing. Having compassionate, skilled legal representation by your side makes a significant difference. An experienced attorney can handle investigations, gather evidence, negotiate settlements, and advocate passionately for your rights in court, allowing you to focus on healing and recovery.
David W. Martin Accident & Injury Lawyers: Advocating for South Carolina Survivors
At David W. Martin Accident & Injury Lawyers, we approach every case with sensitivity, empathy, and a commitment to justice. Our dedicated team understands the courage it takes to speak up, and we ensure each survivor receives personalized, respectful legal representation. We fight tirelessly to hold perpetrators and negligent institutions accountable, striving for justice and fair compensation for survivors.
If you or a loved one are a survivor of sexual abuse in South Carolina, know that you are not alone. Contact David W. Martin Accident & Injury Lawyers today at (803) 302-3989 for a confidential consultation, and let us help you reclaim your voice and rights.
We provide free consultations for all South Carolina personal injury cases. We only collect fees when we secure compensation for you—your success is our success.