Lower Merion Township Sexual Assault Lawyer

Perpetrators of Sexual Assault

According to data from Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), eight out of ten rapes are committed by someone known to the victim; in fact, 39% are committed by an acquaintance, and 33% are committed by a current or former intimate partner.

Perpetrators can be any of the following:

• Family members
• Friends
• Teachers
• Priests or religious leaders
• Law enforcement or emergency personnel
• Counselors or youth leaders
• Doctors or medical staff
• Nurses or care workers
• Coaches or managers
• Therapists

Of the sexual abuse cases involving juveniles that were reported to law enforcement, 93% of the juvenile victims knew the perpetrator:

• 59% were acquaintances
• 34% were family
• 7% were strangers

Why Reach Out to a Lower Merion Township Sexual Assault Lawyer

Pursuing legal action after a sexual assault isn’t easy, but having an experienced, knowledgeable, and compassionate attorney in your corner can make all the difference in the world. A sexual assault lawyer in Lower Merion Township gives you the expertise you’ll need to navigate the legal process while also serving as a source of strength and advocacy as you seek justice.

Here are a few reasons why hiring a sexual assault lawyer is crucial:

• Protecting Your Rights: Your lawyer has in-depth knowledge and understanding of local and federal laws and protections available to rape survivors. They’ll fight to make sure that your rights are being recognized and upheld, whether you’re seeking protective orders, pursuing criminal charges, or filing a civil lawsuit. They can help guide you and ensure you’re being treated fairly and with respect.
• Navigating the System: Working within the legal system can be intimidating and confusing for any victim, let alone someone dealing with the aftermath of sexual trauma. Your lawyer will clearly explain your options and help you understand the legal process. They’ll also handle all of the procedural complexities for you, like filing deadlines, collecting evidence, and meeting court requirements.
• Building a Strong Case: Proving guilt in a sexual assault case requires a great deal of evidence. Things like medical records, witness statements, and sometimes even expert testimony. Your attorney knows how to collect and present this evidence in a way that best strengthens your case. They’ll work with investigators, experts in forensics, and other professionals to communicate the facts of your case clearly and ensure that your voice is heard.
• Providing Emotional Support and Advocacy: Beyond legal knowledge and expertise, your sexual assault lawyer will be your advocate, providing you with compassion and support. They can help you regain your sense of empowerment and give you the confidence you need to fight for the justice you deserve.
• Seeking Compensation in Civil Cases: If you decide to pursue a civil lawsuit, your lawyer will fight on your behalf, seeking fair financial compensation to cover damages like medical expenses, cost of therapy, lost wages, and your physical and emotional pain and suffering. This holds perpetrators accountable for their actions and helps alleviate financial burdens while you recover.
• Representing You With Law Enforcement and in the Courts: Survivors face challenges in dealing with law enforcement or court proceedings, often having to relive their traumatic experiences while giving statements or testimony. Your lawyer can also serve as your intermediary, making sure that your voice is heard while minimizing any unnecessary distress you may otherwise face. They’ll fight to protect you from aggressive defense tactics or victim-blaming narratives.
• Holding Institutions Accountable: Sometimes, these cases involve an institution, like a school, employer, property owner, or other organization, that was negligent in their duty to protect you or enabled your assault somehow. Your lawyer will also pursue claims against these entities to help ensure systemic accountability that can lead to changes that protect others in the future.

Let Laffey Bucci D’Andrea Reich & Ryan Be Your Advocate

Often, those who choose to assault or abuse others are in positions of power or authority and can coerce or threaten their victims into staying silent. But if you’ve been a victim, you can find your voice by reaching out to a  Lower Merion Township sexual assault lawyer.

At Laffey Bucci D’Andrea Reich & Ryan, our attorneys are experienced in handling traumatic and sensitive cases just like yours, and we will stand with you to ensure your abuser is brought to justice.

Don’t hesitate to contact our office today and let us help you get the justice, closure, and peace of mind you deserve.