Sexual Abuse Lawyers In Delaware County, PA
Overcoming Barriers: Statute Of Limitations Explained
Many survivors may think that it’s too late to start legal proceedings against an abuser. Others may have already been through criminal proceedings, to no avail. Being in the courtroom when a jury sides with the defense can be traumatic, especially if the prosecuting attorney was confident you had a strong case. Is there still an opportunity to start civil litigation? In many cases, yes.
In 2019, the Civil Statute of Limitations regarding cases of sexual abuse in Pennsylvania was changed. Now, anyone who was abused as a minor (under the age of 18) has until their 55th birthday to file suit. Previously, the limit was the person’s 30th birthday. If the victim was between 18 and 23 when the abuse took place, they now have until their 30th birthday to start civil proceedings.
These dates are not retroactive, unfortunately. So, if someone had already reached their 30th birthday at the time the Statute of Limitations was changed, they may have missed the opportunity to make a claim against their abuser. However, there could still be a way to circumvent this. That’s why it’s critical that you speak to a team of experienced Delco sexual abuse lawyers. Here at Bochetto & Lentz, we know Pennsylvania laws inside out, as well as Federal laws that may impact you. If there’s a way for you to make a claim, we’ll work relentlessly to build a strong case for you.
Bochetto & Lentz works closely with survivors and their families right across Delaware County and other surrounding areas. If you need a sexual abuse lawyer in Kensington or Delco, Bochetto & Lentz can help.
How Is My Privacy Protected When Working With A Sexual Abuse Lawyer?
- Sexual abuse lawyers are bound by strict confidentiality rules to protect your privacy.
- Communications between you and your lawyer are legally privileged and cannot be disclosed without your permission.
- Your lawyer will take care to handle sensitive information discreetly and securely.
- Privacy protection helps create a safe space for you to share your experience and pursue your case.
Protecting Your Privacy During Legal Proceedings
One of the most important responsibilities of a Delco sexual abuse lawyer is respecting the wishes of the client in terms of privacy and confidentiality. It’s completely normal to feel nervous or fearful about revealing aspects of a sexual abuse incident. You may worry about revealing the identity of family members or family friends involved in the case. Or, if you’re the parent or carer of a minor, you could be concerned about how the legal proceedings could impact the child.
Bochetto & Lentz understands this and, as well as offering compassionate support, has many ways to help protect your confidentiality.
Here are just some of the actions we may undertake or request from the court to protect your privacy during any Delco sexual abuse civil litigation:
Confidential Hearings
It may be possible to have certain aspects of your case confined to a closed hearing. A closed hearing means that only certain parties can attend. That ensures there’s no possibility of a media presence or unwanted friends or family members attending. Confidential or closed hearings can help give survivors the confidence to speak their truth and state the facts needed to ensure a positive outcome.
Sealed Documents
A case that goes to court can include sealed documents. If a judge agrees, documents containing sensitive information or details that could place the victim at risk can be sealed. This prevents anyone except the involved parties from accessing this data, ensuring the maximum level of privacy.
Anonymous Suits
You may be able to file a Delaware County civil lawsuit for sexual abuse completely anonymously. The court will hear about you only as a pseudonym, rather than your real name. A lawyer must file a motion with the relevant court to allow you to proceed under a pseudonym. Some survivors may find it easier to proceed with this added level of privacy, and it can help them detach from the proceedings, thus reducing potential distress.
Limited Public Disclosure
Not every case can be filed anonymously. However, an experienced sexual abuse lawyer could petition the court to allow limited public disclosure. In these instances, certain information about the case will be kept private. Details could include names, addresses, schools, and other background details that could be used to identify the person filing suit.
Contact Us
Here at Bochetto & Lentz, we understand that you may be making a claim against an individual or an institution. If the sexual abuse occurred while part of a club or team, our lawyers may recommend that you seek damages from the organization’s owners who failed to protect you. We look at the full details of each case and ensure we’re working toward the best outcome for you.
Bochetto & Lentz offers numerous types of legal assistance for sensitive, complex cases, from sexual abuse to cemetery fraud. If you need a personal injury attorney in Philadelphia, for example, a member of our team can help. Every lawyer at Bochetto & Lentz has years of experience handling cases that other lawyers may find too convoluted. We understand how important it is for you to get closure and move on with your life. Claiming the damages you’re due can be a critical part of that.
A member of our compassionate team will listen to you without judgment, decide if you have a legitimate case, and help you take the first steps toward claiming the damages you deserve. If you need a sexual abuse lawyer in Delaware County, contact us today!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. For advice specific to your situation, please contact our office directly to speak with an attorney.