5 Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Sexual Assault Lawsuit

If you or someone you know is going through a sexual assault lawsuit, then this article is for you.

Firstly, I would like to say that I completely sympathize with you. It is something that I would not even wish for an enemy.

Sexual assault is a very serious crime. Victims of such incidents have to struggle with the aftermath of the same. They have you bear the emotional pain and stress which takes time to heal

However, having said that, knowing what to do and what not to do is essential if you are planning to file a lawsuit. It is the ONLY way to hold the offender accountable and get compensation for your losses.

But, there are certain mistakes that a lot of people make. These significantly reduce the chances of winning the case. Additionally, to ensure that you are taking the right steps, it is important that you talk to a sexual abuse lawyer.

They will provide you with the right guidance that you need. but is that all?

Hi. In today’s blog, I will be talking about some of the mistakes that you should avoid while filing a sexual assault lawsuit. So, if that is what you want to do, keep on reading this article till the end and thank me later!

Sexual Assault Lawsuit Mistakes You MUST Avoid!

If you are filing a sexual assault lawsuit, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind to avoid losing your case.

Here are some of them:

1. Not Seeking Medical Attention

Firstly, most people often make the grave mistake of skipping medical checks after a sexual assault. However, this is one of the most important things that you should do when you are planning to file a sexual assault lawsuit.

As a survivor of sexual assault, it will definitely be difficult for you to pick yourself up and visit the doctor. Most, if not all, victims go through a state of emotional turmoil. they feel shame and fear.

However, getting medical treatment is extremely important for your health. Additionally, it helps you build your case as these medical records become a vital part of your evidence,

For instance, the doctor can treat and document any injuries, gather evidence such as DNA, and create a record of the assault. Trust me when I say, this will be extremely beneficial during legal proceedings.

Even if you don’t feel any external injuries, it is good to get checked by a healthcare professional. Failing to see a doctor can weaken your health and also your case.

2. Delaying the Decision to File a Lawsuit

Secondly, a lot of people make the mistake of delaying filing the case for a sexual assault lawsuit. They do not realize that in several states, the statute of limitations for sexual assault might be different.

It may be because of emotional trauma, fear of not being believed, or uncertainty about the process. however, waiting too long to file the case generally causes more harm than good.

The sooner you file your case, the better will it be for you to get justice. Additionally, this will also ensure that you get monetary compensation for the damage the criminal has caused you.

These time limits vary by state and the nature of the crime. So, acting quickly and filing a lawsuit as soon as possible is crucial.

3. Not Preserving Evidence

Evidence is critical in sexual assault cases. Without proper evidence, your case can become much more difficult to prove.

Many survivors fail to preserve evidence as they don’t realize the importance of it and also because of emotional pain.

It is important to keep evidence, such as photographs of injuries, medical records, text messages, or any clothing worn during the incident.

This evidence will strengthen your case, and you can quickly hold the offender accountable.

4. Sharing Details of the Case Publicly

Some survivors have the urge to post about the assault on social media or discuss it publicly. That will be detrimental to your case. The opposing party can use your public statements against you to discredit you.

In some cases, it might harm the legal proceedings. So, avoid discussing the case publicly and follow your attorney’s advice on what you can share or not share with others or in public during the legal process.

5. Choosing the Wrong Legal Representation

Finally, most people lose their case as they choose the wrong lawyer for legal representation in a sexual assault lawsuit. and this is something that you must have also seen in popular lawyer movies.

It is one of the most important decisions and making the wrong move could cost you your case. That is why you need to choose the right legal assistance who has a specialization in this field.

It is important that you keep in mind that not all lawyers can handle sexual assault cases. Everyone has different kinds of experience.

So, choosing a lawyer who has experience in similar cases becomes extremely important. You need to check that they have a good track record, are easily approachable, and truly care for your case.

And yes, there is no need for you to hurry and select your lawyer. You can take the time to research your options before deciding on one. Additionally, you can also attend free consultation sessions to discuss your case and learn more about the lawyer.

Wrapping It Up!

When filing a sexual assault lawsuit, every small step you make is important. So, be careful and avoid these five common mistakes to take the necessary steps to protect your rights and seek justice.

Remember, you are not alone in this process. Legal counsel from a sexual assault lawyer can offer you the guidance and support you need during this challenging journey.

Read Also:

• Quid Pro Quo Harassment: What To Do If Your Office Superior is Harassing You?
• Assault Case Convictions: Definition, Penalties, and Future Challenges
• Statute of Limitations for Sexual Assault: Are There Time Limits?