Abuse and Child Sexual Assault by Adults

Many instances of child sexual assault, molestation and abuse happen when adults, such as a pastor, scout leader, teacher, neighbor or other family member, use their size and power to make a child vulnerable. Child sexual abuse does not always have to include physical contact, but can also include suggestive and obscene comments, pornography and other inappropriate behaviors.

Additionally, child sexual assault and molestation may consist of a single incident or may happen consistently over a period of many months or years. Abuse may escalate over time, especially if the abuser is a family member or another person well known to the child. It is important to take action immediately if you believe that your child is being abused or assaulted by another adult.

Philadelphia Attorney for Children Who Were Physically or Psychologically Abused in New Jersey & Pennsylvania Child abuse can be physical or psychological in nature and can involve the neglect of a child’s basic needs. Any form of child abuse, however, can have a lasting impact on the victim and those who inflict this abuse should be held accountable. While the criminal justice system can punish abusers, a civil lawsuit can also help to obtain justice,

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says teen drivers often engage in dangerous activities while behind the wheel:

• Teens are more likely than other drivers to speed and tailgate. Male teen drivers are especially prone to engaging in these unsafe activities.
• Among male teen drivers in fatal accidents in 2005, 37 percent were speeding and 26 had been drinking alcohol.
• In 2008, 25 percent of drivers between the ages of 15 and 20 who died in motor vehicle crashes had a blood alcohol content that met or the exceeded legal limit (.08 percent).

Holding the Defendant Responsible

For many people who file wrongful death or related civil lawsuits, it is not just about money. It is about holding a person responsible for his or her actions, that likely devastated a family’s sense of well-being and wholeness. As Fred Goldman, the father of Ron Goldman, told reporters after the favorable civil lawsuit verdict: “Our family is grateful for a verdict of responsibility.”

Pennsylvania law says that a spouse, child, parent or guardian, or personal representative of the deceased may file a wrongful death lawsuit. The death must have been caused by the defendant’s wrongful act, an act that would have allowed the victim to recover damages if the victim had not died. Often, but not always, civil lawsuits arise at the same time as criminal charges.

In 2009, 10-year-old Justin Clinton was mauled to death by two pit bulls belonging to a neighbor.

The fatal attack occurred at the edge of the dog owners’ property. Because the dogs were not “running loose,” KLTV painted the dog owners as victims after a lawsuit was filed.

Losing a loved one in any kind of accident is a tragic experience that no amount of money can replace. If the accident was the result of carelessness or negligence by another person or company, however, it is important to hold the responsible party accountable. By recovering compensation through a wrongful death claim, you can pay for any remaining medical bills, funeral expenses and other financial losses.

When children are involved in accidents, injuries do not only harm the child, they are also devastating for parents. When these injuries occur due to the negligence of another party, parents need answers and maximum compensation to pay for medical treatment and other expenses. By working with an experienced attorney, you can diligently pursue the benefits that you and your child deserve.