If you have survived a sexual assault, you may feel overwhelmed, confused, and unsure of where to turn. The trauma and pain from such an experience can be immense. While no amount of money can ever truly compensate for what you’ve endured, seeking financial compensation through a civil lawsuit can help you reclaim a sense of control and justice.
At Bayuk Pratt, our experienced and compassionate Georgia sexual assault lawyers are here to stand by your side, offering the support and legal skills you need during this challenging time.
What Type of Acts Can Be Considered Sexual Assault?
Sexual assault encompasses a wide range of non-consensual sexual acts. In Georgia, these may include:
- Rape
- Attempted rape
- Unwanted sexual touching or groping
- Sexual coercion
- Sexual acts involving a person who cannot give consent (e.g., due to intoxication, age, or mental incapacity)
It’s important to understand that sexual assault is not limited to physical contact. Acts such as voyeurism, exhibitionism, or sharing intimate images without consent can also be forms of sexual assault.
In civil sexual assault cases, the goal is to hold the perpetrator and their enablers accountable for the harm caused by these actions by obtaining compensation from them.
Where Can a Sexual Assault Happen?
Sexual assault may occur in various locations, including:
- Private residences
- Workplaces
- Schools and universities
- Hotels and motels
- Sports and workout venues
- Nursing homes and healthcare facilities
- Bars and nightclubs
- Public spaces
Sadly, many survivors know their attacker, which can add layers of emotional complexity to their case. Additionally, some assaults may occur on premises where the property owner or manager fails to provide adequate security.
What Should a Person Do If They Are a Survivor of Sexual Assault?
If you have endured a sexual assault, your safety and well-being are the most important priorities. Seek medical attention immediately to address any physical injuries and preserve evidence. Reporting the assault to law enforcement is a critical step, though we understand that not every survivor feels ready to do so. Whether or not you choose to file a criminal report, documenting the assault and seeking legal advice as soon as possible is crucial.
At Bayuk Pratt, our Georgia sexual assault lawyers can help you explore your options for seeking justice and financial compensation. We approach every case with the utmost care and sensitivity, understanding the profound impact that sexual assault has on survivors.
Can a Georgia Sexual Assault Survivor Seek Financial Compensation?
Sexual assault survivors in Georgia can seek financial compensation through a civil lawsuit. This compensation may cover various losses, including:
- Medical expenses, including ongoing therapy and counseling
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Unlike criminal cases, which focus on punishing the offender, civil cases aim to provide financial relief to the survivor. Additionally, civil cases can hold other parties, such as employers, landlords, or property owners, accountable if they failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the assault.
Our team at Bayuk Pratt is committed to fighting for the rights of sexual assault survivors, using our deep understanding of the law to pursue the maximum compensation possible for your suffering.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Sexual Assault in Georgia?
In Georgia, the primary party responsible for a sexual assault is the perpetrator. However, in some cases, other parties may also be held liable under the legal doctrine of premises liability. For example, if a sexual assault occurred in a poorly lit parking lot with inadequate security, the property owner or manager could be held accountable for failing to provide a safe environment.
Liability also can extend to employers who fail to conduct proper background checks or address harassment complaints and institutions that ignore reports of misconduct. Our legal team at Bayuk Pratt has the experience and resources to thoroughly investigate your case and identify all responsible parties. We will diligently work to seek the justice you deserve.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Sexual Assault Lawsuit in Georgia?
Understanding the statute of limitations is crucial for sexual assault survivors considering legal action. In Georgia, the time limits for filing a civil lawsuit related to sexual assault can vary depending on several factors.
For adult survivors, the general statute of limitations is two years from the date of the assault.
For survivors who were minors at the time of the assault, the statute of limitations may be extended. Under the Hidden Predator Act, survivors of childhood sexual abuse have until their 23rd birthday to file a civil lawsuit. However, the law makes an exception. If the survivor was unaware of the abuse, they have two years from the time they remember or discover it to file.
These time limits can be complex, and other factors may affect the statute of limitations in your specific case. Consulting a knowledgeable Georgia sexual assault lawyer as soon as possible can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you don’t miss important deadlines.
At Bayuk Pratt, we understand that taking legal action may be daunting, especially after such a traumatic experience. Our team is here to provide the compassionate support you need, helping you understand your options and guiding you through the legal process.
Contact a Georgia Sexual Assault Lawyer
The journey to healing after a sexual assault is deeply personal and can be long and challenging. At Bayuk Pratt, we can support you through this process, offering not just legal representation but also understanding and compassion. Our Georgia sexual assault lawyers are relentless in their pursuit of justice for survivors, and we’ll fight for the compensation you deserve.
You do not have to go through this alone. Contact Bayuk Pratt today for a free and confidential consultation to learn more.