Sexual abuse is a heinous crime that can have devastating and long-lasting effects on the survivor. Perpetrators who violate a person’s bodily autonomy can create serious trauma, physical harm, and psychological distress for their victims. Unfortunately, sexual abuse cases are not uncommon, and victims often suffer in silence due to shame, fear, and stigma. However, it is essential to bring these cases to light and hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.
At Babin Law, LLC, we understand the legal complexity and the emotional difficulty these cases present. Our Ohio sexual abuse case lawyers seek to serve as a resource for survivors of sexual abuse and their loved ones so that we can provide information and support to help you navigate the legal, emotional, and practical aspects of seeking justice and healing. Contact us today for your free consultation.
What are Ohio Sexual Abuse Cases?
Sexual abuse cases involve any form of unwanted sexual contact or behavior towards another person, without their consent or against their will. This can include a wide range of actions, such as touching, groping, fondling, or kissing, as well as more severe forms of sexual assault, such as rape, sodomy, or forced penetration. Sexual abuse can occur in various settings, including in the workplace, in schools, at home, in public places, or during social events. It can happen to anyone, regardless of their gender, age, ethnicity, or social status, and can have severe and lasting consequences for the survivor, including physical, emotional, and psychological harm. Sexual abuse cases are a serious crime and should be reported to the authorities immediately.
Types of Ohio Sexual Abuses Cases
There are many different types of sexual abuse cases, some of which include:
- Rape: Forced sexual intercourse without the victim’s consent.
- Sexual assault: Non-consensual sexual contact or behavior, including fondling, groping, and kissing.
- Sexual harassment: Unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.
- Incest: Sexual activity between family members, such as parent and child or sibling and sibling.
- Child sexual abuse: Sexual activity with a minor, including sexual contact or behavior, exploitation, grooming, or exposure to sexual material.
- Date rape: Sexual assault by someone the victim knows, such as a romantic partner, acquaintance, or friend.
Harm of Sexual Abuses Cases In Ohio
Here are some examples of the harm caused by sexual abuse cases:
- Physical harm: Sexual abuse can cause physical injuries such as bruising, cuts, or broken bones. It can also result in sexually transmitted infections or unwanted pregnancies.
- Emotional harm: Survivors of sexual abuse often experience a range of intense emotions, including fear, shame, guilt, anger, and confusion. They may also develop mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or substance abuse.
- Psychological harm: Sexual abuse can cause long-term psychological damage, such as low self-esteem, self-blame, feelings of powerlessness, and difficulty trusting others. Survivors may also experience flashbacks, nightmares, or other intrusive memories related to the abuse.
- Social harm: Survivors of sexual abuse may experience social isolation, stigmatization, or rejection from their community. They may also have difficulty maintaining healthy relationships or may struggle with intimacy.
Sexual Abuses Cases in Ohio
Some notable sexual abuse cases in Ohio include:
- In 2019, a jury awarded $11 million to a woman who was sexually abused by a doctor at a Cleveland hospital when she was a child.
- In 2018, Ohio State University reached a $500 million settlement with more than 300 individuals who were sexually abused by a former team doctor.
- In 2016, the Diocese of Columbus paid $1.3 million to a man who was sexually abused by a priest in the 1970s.
- In 2014, a jury awarded $1.6 million to a woman who was sexually abused by a teacher in the Cincinnati Public Schools when she was a child.
- In 2013, the Cleveland Catholic Diocese paid $3 million to settle 22 sexual abuse claims against 16 priests.
Statute of Limitations for Sexual Abuse Cases in Ohio
Statute of limitations refers to the timeframe a plaintiff has to file a case. The statute of limitations for sexual abuse claims in Cincinnati depends on the circumstances of the case. The statute of limitations is generally two years from the date of the abuse or discovery of the abuse. However, if the victim was a minor at the time of the abuse, the statute of limitations is extended to age 28 or 12 years after the abuse, whichever is longer. There are also certain circumstances where the statute of limitations can be tolled, such as if the victim was incapacitated or under duress.
Contact Our Ohio Sexual Abuse Cases Lawyers Today
Sexual abuse is a heinous crime that has devastating consequences for the victims. These cases can be emotionally difficult and complex, and having a knowledgeable and compassionate legal advocate by your side can make all the difference. If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual abuse, it is important to seek legal help from an experienced Ohio sexual abuse case lawyer. At Babin Law, LLC we are dedicated to fighting for the rights of survivors and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. Our knowledgeable Ohio sexual abuse case lawyers can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help you receive the justice and compensation you deserve. Don’t suffer in silence, contact us today for your free consultation and take the first step towards justice and healing.
