Many people wonder why survivors of sexual abuse sometimes wait years to come forward. In Tacoma and throughout Washington State, delayed disclosure is not unusual. For many survivors, factors like fear, shame, and trauma make it difficult to report abuse right away.
Learning about why this happens is an important first step toward compassion and justice. Fortunately, Washington law recognizes these challenges and allows victims to seek justice long after the abuse occurred.
Why Survivors Often Delay Disclosure
Research shows that most survivors of child sexual abuse do not disclose their experiences immediately. This is not because the abuse was minor, but because trauma deeply affects one’s memory and emotions.
Many survivors remain silent for reasons that are both psychological and practical, including:
- Fear of not being believed
- Fear of being blamed for what happened
- Feelings of shame about the abuse
- Emotional trauma that makes it difficult to talk about the experience
- Dependence on the abuser, such as if they were a family member
- Pressure from others to stay quiet and “move on”
Children who endure sexual abuse may not fully understand what happened until they reach adulthood. By then, the emotional toll and social pressures can still make disclosure incredibly hard.
How Trauma Impacts Memory and Reporting
Trauma affects each person differently. Some survivors experience dissociation, which is a defense mechanism that causes them to detach from the event to cope with it. Others may suppress painful memories for years as a way to survive.
When these memories resurface, they often trigger strong emotional responses. This is why many adults in Tacoma only begin to speak about childhood sexual abuse after things like therapy and contact with other survivors.
These reactions help explain why delayed disclosure is not only normal but expected.
Washington Laws That Protect Survivors
Recognizing that trauma can delay reporting, Washington lawmakers have expanded the time limits for filing civil claims related to childhood sexual abuse.
Under RCW 4.16.340, victims of abuse that occurred before June 6, 2024, can bring a claim within:
- Three years from the time they discovered (or should have discovered) that the abuse caused their injuries, or
- Three years from when they became aware that the abuser or another responsible party caused their harm
There is no time limit for instances of abuse that took place after that date. This means that even if the abuse happened decades ago, survivors may still have the right to pursue a lawsuit once they connect the abuse to their lasting trauma.
Note as well that the statute of limitations in these cases is tolled (paused until the child turns eighteen years of age.
What To Do if You’re Considering Legal Action
If you are an adult survivor of childhood sexual abuse in Tacoma, you have options. Speaking up is a deeply personal decision, but you do not have to navigate it by yourself. Before taking any steps, it may help to:
- Speak with a licensed therapist who specializes in trauma
- Document any memories, records, and communications that relate to the abuse
- Contact a personal injury attorney experienced in sexual abuse cases
An attorney can explain your legal rights and help you follow through with your best course of action from there.
Contact a Tacoma Sexual Abuse Lawyer for a Free Consultation
Delayed disclosure of sexual abuse is far more common than many people realize in Tacoma, Washington. Washington law acknowledges this reality and allows survivors to come forward when they are ready.
If you are thinking about pursuing a claim or simply want to understand your options, contact Darrell Cochran Personal Injury Lawyer to schedule a free consultation with a Tacoma sexual abuse lawyer. You may still have time to seek justice.
For more information, contact an experienced sexual abuse lawyer at Darrell Cochran Personal Injury Lawyer to schedule a free initial consultation. We have convenient locations in Seattle and Tacoma, Washington.
Darrell Cochran Personal Injury Lawyer – Seattle
701 5th Ave Suite 4300A, Seattle, WA 98104
(253) 948-0250
Darrell Cochran Personal Injury Lawyer – Tacoma
909 A St Ste 700A, Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 264-0225