Connecticut Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Sexual abuse is a catch-all term to describe various forms of criminal sexual misconduct, from unwanted touching to violent rape. A Connecticut sexual abuse lawyer may defend an accused against these charges in criminal court or pursue financial compensation for sexual abuse survivors in civil court. The attorneys at Mark Sherman Law excel in both roles.

Skillful Defense for People Accused of Sex Crimes

For the accused, a sex crime charge requires an aggressive defense. These crimes carry potentially harsh penalties, including registration as a sex offender.

An accusation is not proof, and the evidence of a sexual offense may rely heavily on an alleged victim’s statement. Our sex abuse defense attorneys in Connecticut can determine whether the alleged victim actually consented to the activity and had a motive to lie about the encounter. Prosecutors must have clear evidence to prove every element of the charge, and we could resolve the case favorably when we can show the state’s evidence is unreliable or insufficient.

Many serious sex crimes involve internet activity. Our defense team can fight back against these charges by claiming entrapment, illegal search and seizure of electronic data and computers, or mistaken identity.

Effective Representation in Title IX Cases

Students at colleges and universities are often accused of sexual offenses. Even when the offense cannot be proved in court, it could have a devastating impact on the accused’s academic life.

Federal law requires these institutions to have a coordinator to ensure all sexual abuse allegations are thoroughly investigated and appropriate action taken to protect the alleged victim. The rights and due process procedures afforded to criminal defendants do not apply in these circumstances. Students can be expelled or suspended on the basis of these accusations.

Our attorneys represent students at Connecticut institutions involved in sexual abuse investigations. We work to preserve the future of students accused of sexual misconduct, and we advocate for students who have been the victims of sexual abuse on campus.

What About Sexual Abuse Survivors?

Sexual abuse survivors often suffer psychological damage from the experience that impacts their lives forever. They may fail to reach their academic or professional potential and have difficulty maintaining intimate relationships. Our skilled trial attorneys represent sexual abuse survivors in Connecticut in civil lawsuits seeking compensation from the perpetrators and institutions that enabled the abuse.

Revelations about the prevalence of child sexual abuse in trusted institutions have been making headlines for decades. Thousands of cases have been brought against the Catholic Church and other religious institutions, schools, juvenile detention facilities, and organizations like the Boy Scouts of America. These institutions have been found liable for millions of dollars in damages for the permanent harm done to children in their care.

Many survivors are not able to fully process their experience until many years have passed. Connecticut General Statutes § 52-577d allows survivors of childhood sexual abuse 30 years from their 18th birthday to file a lawsuit. People who were adults when they were abused generally have three years from the date of the incident, but there are many circumstances that could extend the deadline. It is always worthwhile discussing your options with a legal professional.

Consult a Connecticut Attorney About Sexual Abuse Claims

Sexual abuse cases require a knowledgeable attorney who understands the law and the lifelong impact these cases have on both the accused and the survivor. Our Connecticut sexual abuse lawyers have the necessary knowledge and skill.

If you need aggressive, effective representation in a sexual abuse case, have a look at some of our 300+ certified Avvo reviews. Then contact us at Mark Sherman Law to get started.