Recognizing the warning signs of child sexual abuse is critical to protecting children and ensuring timely intervention. Washington State laws include strict legal mandates for reporting suspected abuse. This blog discusses the signs of child sexual abuse and what to do if you suspect your child or another child is being sexually abused in Seattle, WA.
Understanding Child Sexual Abuse Under Washington Law
Washington defines child sexual abuse broadly under RCW §26.44.020 to include any sexual abuse or exploitation causing harm to a child’s health, welfare, or safety.
Child sexual abuse encompasses, but is not limited to:
- Sexual assault or molestation by any person
- Rape or sodomy of a child
- Sexual exploitation, including inducing a child into prostitution or obscene photographing/depiction
- Communication with a minor for immoral purposes
- Other sexual offenses defined under Washington’s criminal code
Negligent treatment, maltreatment, or failure to intervene when a child is exposed to sexual abuse can also constitute reportable abuse if it presents a clear and present danger to the child. The penalties for sexual abuse of children can include fines, imprisonment, registration as a sex offender, and more.
Signs and Symptoms of Child Sexual Abuse
Understanding the signs of child sexual abuse can help parents and others identify and report abuse. While Washington law doesn’t specify signs, common warning signs of child sexual abuse include:
- Behavioral changes such as withdrawal, fearfulness, anxiety, or depression
- Age-inappropriate sexual knowledge or behaviors
- Physical signs like bruising, bleeding, or pain in the genital area
- Nightmares, bedwetting, or regressive behaviors
- Reluctance or fear of being alone with specific individuals
- Torn, bloody, or stained underclothing
- Unexplained genital infections or venereal disease
- Sudden changes in school performance or attendance
- Disclosure or hints about sexual contact or abuse
Seek immediate medical attention for your child if you suspect that they have been sexually abused.
Mandatory Reporting of Child Sexual Abuse in Washington
Washington State law (RCW §26.44.030) requires mandatory reporting of suspected child abuse or neglect by a broad group of professionals and others.
Mandatory reporters include, but are not limited to:
- Medical personnel (doctors, nurses, dentists)
- School personnel (teachers, counselors, administrators)
- Childcare providers
- Employees of the DSHS
- HOPE center staff
- Medical examiners
- Juvenile probation officers
- Law enforcement officers
- Social workers and mental health professionals
- Clergy
Anyone with reasonable cause to believe that a child has been abused, including sexual abuse, must report immediately, typically within 48 hours. Reports are made to Child Protective Services (CPS) or law enforcement. Reports must include the child’s name, address, and nature of abuse when known.
Federal confidentiality laws, including HIPAA, allow for exceptions to report suspected child abuse despite medical or therapeutic confidentiality. Professionals must carefully explain their reporting obligations to children and families in a developmentally appropriate way to maintain trust.
Child Sexual Abuse Claims in Washington
Victims of sexual abuse often suffer physical and emotional harm. The impact of child sexual abuse can last a lifetime. Children may experience physical impairments and developmental delays. The emotional damage caused by child sexual abuse can result in debilitating psychological disorders.
In civil cases, victims of child sexual abuse or their guardians can seek compensation for economic and non-economic damages, including:
- Medical treatment and services
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Scarring, disfigurement, impairment, and disability
- Mental anguish and emotional distress
- Diminished quality of life
- Lost wages and earning capacity
- Out-of-pocket expenses
We’ll help you account for all the losses in your case.
Call Darrell Cochran Personal Injury Lawyer for a Free Consultation With a Seattle Child Sexual Abuse Lawyer
At Darrell Cochran Personal Injury Lawyer, our Seattle child sexual abuse lawyers understand the challenges faced by survivors of child sexual abuse and their families. Our legal team provides support and guidance as we work to obtain justice for the victims.
For more information, contact an experienced child 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