If you were sexually abused in Washington State, you have legal rights. In addition to criminal charges against the abuser, you may pursue a civil lawsuit to seek financial compensation for physical harm and emotional losses you have suffered. The Washington personal injury lawyers at Darrell Cochran Personal Injury Lawyer can help you pursue legal and financial justice. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn about your legal options.
Our firm has more than three decades of experience representing abuse victims throughout Washington. We have recovered hundreds of millions against institutions that failed to prevent child sex abuse. We understand how devastating sexual abuse can be; we’re the firm for survivors. Reach out today to learn more about your options.
Why Choose Darrell Cochran Personal Injury Lawyer to Handle Your Sexual Abuse Claim
Sexual abuse cases require experienced and sensitive legal representation that is prepared to go the distance against institutions that covered up or negligently failed to prevent child abuse by employees.
Survivors across Washington have trusted Darrell Cochran Personal Injury Lawyer because:
- We have more than 30 years of experience handling serious assault and abuse cases.
- Our firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for survivors and is recognized as a leader in handling sex abuse claims.
- Our founding sexual abuse attorney in Washington has argued cases before the U.S. Supreme Court and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals
- We have been recognized by Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers, and other respected legal organizations
- We represent survivors on a contingency fee basis.
We understand how difficult it can be to come forward, and we will support you at every stage of your case while we pursue justice for what never should have happened to you.
Why Hire a Washington Sexual Abuse Lawyer
Criminal charges against an abuser may result in punishment, but they do not provide financial compensation to the survivor. A civil sexual abuse lawsuit in Washington allows victims to pursue damages from the abuser and any other parties whose negligence contributed to the abuse.
Moreover, your lawyer can pursue a civil sexual abuse case, even if criminal charges are never filed or if the abuser was found not guilty (there is a lower burden of proof in civil cases). When you pursue a claim, your attorney will:
- Carefully review the results of any criminal investigation
- Conduct an independent investigation into the abuse
- Gather evidence of the abuser’s liability or the institution that employed them
- Handle all filings, insurance claims, and court proceedings
- Negotiate a just settlement with insurance companies and defense attorneys
- Prepare your case for trial and represent you in court if the at-fault party refuses to take responsibility.
Sexual abuse cases often involve sensitive evidence and complex legal issues. Your attorney will help you navigate these challenges while protecting your privacy and dignity.
Who Can Be Held Liable for Sexual Abuse in Washington?
In many cases, sexual abuse claims involve more than just the individual abuser. Institutions and organizations that failed to prevent abuse or ignored warning signs that children were vulnerable may also be legally responsible.
Potential defendants in a Washington sexual abuse lawsuit may include:
- The individual who committed the abuse
- Employers of the abuser
- School districts and universities
- Churches and religious organizations
- Youth organizations
- Sports teams
- Recreational programs
- Healthcare providers
- Property owners who failed to provide adequate security
Institutions can be held liable if they failed to conduct proper background checks, ignored complaints, or failed to adequately supervise employees and children under their care. Since abusers may not have sufficient personal assets to cover your damages, claims against institutional defendants often provide the strongest avenue for recovery.
An experienced Washington sexual abuse lawyer can investigate your case and determine who should be held responsible for your injuries and harm.
What Compensation Is Available to Sexual Abuse Survivors in Washington?
Survivors of sexual abuse may be entitled to compensation for the financial losses and emotional harm they’ve suffered. These damages are intended to help victims recover from the long-term impact of abuse and rebuild their lives.
Your economic and non-economic damages award may include compensation for:
- Medical treatment
- Therapy, counseling, and psychological treatment
- Prescription medications
- Lost income
- Support services
- Other out-of-pocket expenses related to the abuse
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Anxiety/depression
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of personal relationships
Punitive damages may also be available to punish the abuser for the abuse or an institution that willfully covered it up or engaged in other misconduct. These damages do not compensate you for any losses, but can help offer a greater sense of justice and deter similar acts in the future.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Sexual Abuse Lawsuits in Washington?
As of June 6, 2024, Washington law eliminated the statute of limitations for civil claims involving childhood sexual abuse that occurred on or after that date. Survivors abused as minors can now file lawsuits atany time.
However, for abuse occurring before June 6, 2024, survivors generally have three years to file, starting from the latest incident of abuse or when injuries were discovered/traced to the abuse, whichever is later.
These deadlines are complex. An experienced sexual abuse lawyer can help you comply with all filing requirements.
Contact a Washington Sexual Abuse Lawyer Today for Help
If you or a loved one has been sexually abused in Washington State, you deserve justice and accountability. Filing a civil lawsuit can help you obtain the financial resources necessary for moving forward and rebuilding your life.
Darrell Cochran Personal Injury Lawyer has decades of experience representing survivors and holding negligent individuals and institutions accountable for their indefensible misconduct. Our firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for survivors already. We’re ready to help you get the closure and financial recovery you deserve.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a Washington sexual abuse lawyer. We handle cases on a contingency fee basis, so you pay no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you.