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Sexual abuse, assault, and harassment can have long-lasting ramifications for victims. A sex abuse survivor may suffer significant physical, emotional, and financial losses for years after the abuse incident occurred. If you or someone you love – such as a son or daughter – have suffered sex abuse in Aurora, Illinois, Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers LLC can help you seek justice. Our Aurora sex abuse attorneys are here for you in this difficult time.
Why Choose Us?
- We have collected over $100 million in verdicts and settlements for clients in the last five years alone.
- We have handled a range of personal injury case types, including extensive experience with childhood injuries and sexual abuse claims.
- We handle all cases on a contingency fee basis. We never charge any legal fees unless we obtain financial recovery for the client.
Why do You Need a Sex Abuse Lawyer?
You are not in the fight against sex abuse alone. Suffering sexual abuse yourself or finding out that your child has become a victim can make legal action feel impossible. Yet with an attorney’s help, you can create a powerful claim against the perpetrator. Your lawyer can tackle complex legal processes for you while you go through counseling, medical treatments for injuries, and other recovery efforts. A childhood sexual abuse lawyer will make sure the perpetrator’s insurance company offers a fair and full settlement for your damages.
What is Sex Abuse Law?
In Illinois, it is against the law to conduct sexual acts with or in front of someone else without that person’s consent. It is also against the law to perform sexual activities in the presence of a minor under the age of 17. Sexual abuse law refers to the criminal act, but it can also refer to a civil lawsuit. Filing a civil suit against a sex abuser can be the best way for a victim to seek financial recovery.
Although a successful criminal case can result in financial restitution for the plaintiff, the criminal courts cannot force a defendant to pay for the victim’s pain and suffering damages. Unless the victim also files a civil claim, he or she will have to accept zero compensation for physical pain, suffering, emotional distress, and mental anguish. It is important to file a civil sex abuse lawsuit if you want to recover compensation for all your damages.
Recent Aurora Sex Abuse Lawsuits and Settlements
Knowing you are not alone in your fight for sexual abuse justice can strengthen your resolve and make the legal process easier to navigate. Many sexual assault victims before you have been where you are now – trying to decide whether to pursue justice with a civil lawsuit.
In one 2014 case sex abuse in Aurora, a former West Aurora High School student won a settlement from school officials for failing to take steps to prevent a band teacher, Stephen Orland, from sexually abusing her. Orland is currently serving a 12-year prison sentence.
In a more recent case, the mother of a victim filed a suit against East Aurora School District 131, a principal, and the kindergarten teacher who committed the alleged assault. The lawsuit claims that the mother informed district officials of the teacher (Juan C. Avendano’s) actions, but they failed to investigate. The state charged him with 18 felonies. Civil litigation against the defendants is still pending.
In connection with the Avendano case, the Kane County State Attorney charged a Bardwell Elementary School teacher, Elizabeth Aguilar, with failing to contact a state agency despite allegedly knowing that Avendano was sexually abusing children. It is so far unclear if Aguilar will also become a defendant in any civil lawsuits from the victims’ parents.
Another example from Aurora, Illinois occurred at the Sports Performance Volleyball Club. In this case, a prominent Illinois volleyball coach faced a charge of sexual abuse and rape of teenage athletes in the 1980s. Coach Rick Butler and his wife evidently tricked players into joining the club based on false information. Then, Mr. Butler allegedly sexually abused and raped teen athletes.
Where to Get Help for an Aurora Sex Abuse Case
As the victim of sexual abuse in Aurora, you have rights. Make your voice heard in a safe environment by contacting a local sex abuse resource. Mutual Ground of Aurora offers programs, counseling, and services for sexual abuse survivors. You can also call the National Child Abuse Hotline at 800-4-A-CHILD (422-4453) anytime, 24/7. Access a list of known sex offenders in Aurora to help keep your children safe. If you suspect sex abuse, contact a sex abuse lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your legal options.
Contact Us Today
Learning your rights as a sex abuse victim, or the parent of a child sex abuse victim, is the first step toward moving forward. You could have the power to file a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator on top of pressing criminal charges. Seeking justice through every available outlet can give you closure, peace of mind, and maximum financial compensation.
For more information about your unique case, request a confidential free consultation at Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers LLC. Our Aurora sex abuse attorneys can help.
Sources:
- Settlement reached in suit over sex abuse by Aurora band director
- Lawsuit alleges Aurora Dist. 131 officials failed to report sex abuse
- Top Volleyball Coach Raped Teenage Athletes, Lawsuit Alleges
