Understanding Civil Sexual Abuse Lawsuits—Your Rights in PA & NJ
Edelstein Law Stands with Survivors
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story can make all the difference.
Sexual Abuse Awareness Month
April is Sexual Abuse Awareness Month, a time dedicated to shedding light on the pervasive issue of sexual violence and empowering survivors to seek justice. Sexual abuse affects millions of individuals across the United States, leaving lasting physical, emotional, and psychological scars.
At Edelstein Law, survivors deserve justice, healing, and the opportunity to hold perpetrators accountable. Whether through criminal or civil proceedings, the legal system provides pathways for survivors to seek the closure and compensation they deserve.
This blog explores the differences between criminal and civil sexual abuse cases, answers common questions survivors have, and explains how Edelstein Law can support you throughout your journey toward justice.
Edelstein Law’s Expert Sexual Abuse Advocacy
Criminal vs. Civil Sexual Abuse Charges
Sexual abuse cases can be pursued in two distinct ways: criminal charges and civil lawsuits. While both aim to hold perpetrators accountable, they serve different purposes and follow different legal processes.
Criminal Sexual Abuse Charges
Criminal charges are brought by the state or federal government against the accused. These cases focus on punishing the perpetrator for their actions, often resulting in jail time, probation, or fines. The burden of proof in criminal cases is high—beyond a reasonable doubt.
Civil Sexual Abuse Lawsuits
In contrast, civil lawsuits are filed by the survivor (plaintiff) against the perpetrator or other responsible parties (e.g., an organization that failed to prevent the abuse). Civil cases seek monetary compensation for the survivor’s damages, including medical expenses, therapy costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The burden of proof in civil cases is lower—a preponderance of the evidence, meaning it’s more likely than not that the abuse occurred.
Both criminal and civil cases can play critical roles in achieving justice, but they operate independently.
Do the Two Interfere with Each Other?
One common question survivors ask is whether the outcome of a criminal case impacts their ability to file a civil lawsuit. The answer is no—criminal and civil cases are separate legal proceedings.
If the perpetrator is not charged criminally or is acquitted in a criminal trial, you can still pursue a civil lawsuit. This is because the standard of proof is different: civil cases require a lower threshold of evidence.
For example, in the highly publicized O.J. Simpson case, Simpson was acquitted of criminal charges but later found liable in a civil wrongful death lawsuit. Similarly, survivors of sexual abuse can achieve justice in civil court even if criminal charges are not pursued or result in an acquittal.
How Plaintiffs Can Recoup Monetary Awards for Damages
In civil sexual abuse cases, survivors can seek monetary compensation to address the harm they’ve endured. Compensation may include:
Economic Damages
These cover tangible financial losses, such as:
· Medical expenses (e.g., hospital bills, therapy, medication).
· Lost wages or diminished earning capacity.
· Costs for relocation or security measures.
Non-Economic Damages
These address intangible losses, including:
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Loss of enjoyment of life
Punitive Damages
In some cases, courts may award punitive damages to punish the perpetrator and deter similar conduct in the future.
Survivors can also seek compensation from third parties, such as employers, schools, or religious institutions if their negligence contributed to the abuse. For instance, if an organization neglects to conduct thorough background checks or disregards warning signs, it may be held liable.
Edelstein Law has significant experience in pursuing compensation from individuals and institutions, ensuring survivors receive the justice and financial recovery they deserve.
Edelstein Law’s Expertise in Sexual Abuse Cases
At Edelstein Law, we understand the profound impact sexual abuse has on survivors and their families. Our team is licensed to practice in all counties across Pennsylvania and New Jersey, and we’ve built a reputation for providing compassionate, results-driven representation in sexual abuse cases.
Here’s why clients trust Edelstein Law
Experience in Civil Sexual Abuse Litigation: We have successfully represented survivors in complex civil lawsuits, securing significant settlements and verdicts against perpetrators and negligent institutions.
Trauma-Informed Approach: We prioritize your well-being throughout the legal process, ensuring you feel supported, heard, and empowered at every step.
Knowledge of PA and NJ Laws: Sexual abuse laws vary by state. Our deep understanding of Pennsylvania and New Jersey statutes ensures your case is handled with precision and expertise.
Commitment to Justice: We are relentless advocates for survivors, fighting to hold perpetrators accountable and secure the compensation you need to rebuild your life.
Your story matters, and we are here to help you navigate the path to justice with dignity and respect.
How to Get Started with Edelstein Law
If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse, you don’t have to face this journey alone. Edelstein Law provides the compassionate support and skilled legal representation you need to seek justice.
Getting started is simple:
1. Contact Us: Call our office or fill out the contact form on our website to schedule a confidential consultation.
2. Share Your Story: During your consultation, we’ll listen to your experience, answer your questions, and discuss your legal options.
3. Take the First Step Toward Justice: If you choose to move forward, we’ll handle every aspect of your case with care and dedication.
Visit our contact page to complete a form submission that connects directly to our staff—and confidential electronic messaging services. Call our office at (215) 893-9311 to schedule your consultation today. Together, we can fight for the justice and closure you deserve.
Final Thoughts
April’s Sexual Abuse Awareness Month serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting survivors and holding perpetrators accountable. Survivors can seek justice through criminal or civil proceedings and reclaim their lives.
At Edelstein Law, we are honored to stand by Pennsylvania and New Jersey survivors, providing the legal expertise and compassionate guidance they need to move forward.
For survivors looking for assistance through externally funded programs available to you:
V.C.A.P: The Victim's Compensation Assistance Program helps crime victims and their families by easing the crime's emotional and physical aftermath with financial assistance.
W.O.A.R: Philadelphia Center Against Sexual Violence has provided an empathetic ear, a caring heart, and a helping hand to anyone who has experienced sexual violence recently or at any time in their life.
R.A.I.N.N: Sexual Assault Statistics
The National Sexual Violence Resource Center serves as a crucial hub for information and resources aimed at preventing sexual violence and supporting survivors across the nation.
