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Representing Victims of Sexual Abuse in South Carolina

No amount of financial recovery can ever undo or fix the aftermath of sexual abuse. If you or your loved one have suffered at the hands of an abuser, you can take legal action against that person. Pursuing justice through a civil suit can potentially take care of the cost of your medical bills and any other bills you incurred due to the abuse, including the extensive pain and suffering you have experienced. A skilled Charleston sexual abuse attorney can’t undo everything you have been through, but they can hold wrongdoers and abusers accountable.

I represent clients the way I would want to be treated: with respect, honesty, and a commitment toward great results.”
- Julian Allen

Places Abuse Occurs

Sexual abuse happens everywhere. It is not limited to certain areas or neighborhoods. Most often, the abuser is familiar with the victim and the abuse occurs in places where they feel they are safe or comfortable, such as:

  • The victim’s or the abuser’s home. This happens when the abuser is a family member, partner or family friend and has access to personal spaces.
  • Foster homes. Social services screen potential foster parents, but they can make mistakes. Abuse in a foster home can come from the foster family or other children that have been placed there.
  • Nursing homes and long-term care facilities. It is the responsibility of the staff to protect the elderly and disabled, but sometimes the abuser is a staff member. Assault can also come from a fellow resident.
  • Hospitals and mental health facilities. Even though doctors take an oath to do no harm, which doesn’t mean that every single person in a healthcare environment has also taken that oath. Hospitals are a prime example of a place where people are vulnerable but expect to be safe.
  • Schools. This is where adults are in a position of authority over minors, and the wrong person can create the opportunity to take advantage of children.
  • Workplaces. From harassment to assault, work environments have had a long reputation for being a place where abuse occurs.

How the Law Defines Abuse

Abuse is traumatic for survivors. They can be left feeling frightened, overwhelmed, and confused about what happened to them. It is important for people young and old to understand what is considered abusive. In South Carolina, the law says that sexual assault is an act of criminal sexual conduct. There are many different heinous acts that qualify as this crime:

  • Coercion of sexual acts
  • Unwanted touching, groping, and fondling
  • Nonconsensual sexual gratification
  • Violence committed by an intimate partner
  • Indecent exposure
  • Sexual intercourse with a person under the age of 16
  • Sexual intercourse with a disabled or impaired person
  • Harassment and stalking

How to Report Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse is criminal. It can be very difficult to remain calm when someone you love tells you they have been abused. It is critical that you report the abuse to the authorities as soon as you are made aware of it. To report the abuse of minors call (803) 898-7318 ext. 2 to connect with the South Carolina Department of Social Services. To report the abuse of an adult call 1-800-656-4673 and speak to someone at the National Sexual Assault Hotline. You should seek legal help. The sooner that witnesses are interviewed after these experiences the more a competent Charleston sexual abuse attorney could build your case.

Call a Charleston Sexual Abuse Victim Attorney at Allen Law

Sexual abuse survivors in Charleston deserve to feel safe in reporting acts of sexual misconduct. At Allen Law we are sensitive to the ongoing difficulty a victim experiences in pursuing justice after experiencing something so deeply traumatic. We will provide compassionate, personalized, and attentive services to you while we pursue your civil case.

Survivors have many challenges to face on the road to recovery. Let Attorney Allen take the legal part of that process off your plate. We will fight to get the compensation you deserve. A consultation is free and anything you speak with us about is privileged and confidential information. Give our office a call to speak with a knowledgeable attorney (843) 882-5005.