Port Coquitlam Sexual Abuse Lawyers
The trauma of sexual abuse can be devastating. Many survivors face emotional and mental difficulties that can last years, decades, or even a lifetime.
According to information published in the National Library of Medicine, half of female-identifying Canadians who have been sexually abused suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Symptoms of PTSD can include:
- Intrusive and distressing memories, nightmares, or flashbacks of the traumatic event
- Avoidance of people, places, and activities that may trigger memories of the trauma
- Feelings of detachment or numbing
- Intense distress when exposed to reminders of the trauma
- Persistent and exaggerated negative beliefs or expectations about oneself or the world
- Distorted self-blame, shame, and lack of self-worth
- Loss of interest in enjoyable activities
- Difficulty experiencing positive emotions
- Increased irritability and anger
- Sleep disorders, nightmares
- Difficulty maintaining healthy relationships
- Difficulty concentrating
- Suicidal thoughts or self-harm behaviors
- And more
The symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD, as well as other persistent mental health issues resulting from sexual abuse can impact every aspect of a survivor’s life. On top of that, it can be especially difficult for survivors to speak out against their abuser to authorities, family members, friends, or even romantic partners. As a result, it can be difficult for them to access resources that might help them overcome their trauma.
In many cases, sexual abuse is committed by people in positions of trust, authority, or dependency. Examples of this include teachers, coaches, doctors, therapists, and religious leaders. These individuals can use their positions of power to sexually exploit vulnerable individuals, often with devastating consequences.
Additionally, organizations or employers might unwittingly contribute to the victimization of vulnerable targets of sexual predators by failing to take proper preventative actions against known abusers. This is known as systemic or institutional sexual abuse. Failing to properly investigate, prevent, or respond to reports of sexual abuse within their organization can make it easier for abusers to continue engaging in criminal behaviours without fear of reprisal.
Our Port Coquitlam sexual abuse lawyers want survivors to know that there are options available to help them recover from their traumatizing experiences. Our sexual abuse lawyers serving Port Coquitlam have helped many members of the local community in their pursuits of justice and accountability by filing civil claims against the perpetrators of abuse.
The process of working with our Port Coquitlam sexual abuse lawyers to pursue a civil claim can be daunting, but it can also be empowering for survivors. By seeking financial compensation for the damages they have incurred, survivors of sexual abuse can find a sense of closure and retribution.
No one should be forced to pay for the criminal actions of sexual abusers. Since the British Columbia Limitation Act does not impose a time limit on sexual abuse claims, survivors are entitled to pursue civil claims at any time, even if their abuse occurred many years in the past. To learn how our sexual abuse lawyers serving Port Coquitlam may be able to help you recover the compensation you deserve, contact us today.
Schedule Your Free Initial Consultation
Our Port Coquitlam sexual abuse lawyers offer a free initial consultation to all prospective clients. To receive personalized, confidential, cost-free legal advice about your case, call Preszler Injury Lawyers today and schedule your free initial consultation with our sexual abuse lawyers serving Port Coquitlam.
