Criminal and civil cases in the realm of child sex abuse, Part 2
Whose interests are being served?
That is a fundamentally important question to consider in any comparative examination of criminal and civil court cases, respectively.
As we implied in our immediately preceding blog post, it is conceivable that the best interests of a child victimized by sexual assault are not advanced at all — in fact, might be undermined — by criminal litigation. As we note on a relevant page of our website at the personal injury law firm of Taylor & Ring, “The D.A. is not the lawyer for the victim, but rather is the lawyer for “the people.””
There are compelling reasons why an abuse victim’s interests are best served through a civil case.
For starters, a proven child sexual abuse attorney can be retained to advocate diligently for justice. Additionally, and unlike a criminal case, the potential cast of defendants can include more than just the perpetrator. Any entity that promoted illegality through negligence or wanton disregard can be potentially liable in a civil matter. And that is important, because schools, churches, sports groups and other entities often serve as catalysts that enable perpetrators to commit harmful acts.
And then there is this. The spotlight in a criminal case is on punishing the defendant. Although that is also true in a civil matter, money damages are an additionally important component in many cases, which is simply not the case in a criminal trial.
That can be vitally important to an abuse victim and his or her family for a number of reasons. Additionally, a money recovery can serve to meaningfully punish and deter groups and organizations that enable unlawful acts.
Questions regarding civil cases and money damages in sex abuse matters can be directed to an experienced attorney with a proven record of aggressive advocacy on behalf of abuse victims.
Related Content
- Bringing a Suit after an Assault – Criminal Versus Civil
- Criminal vs. civil case in sex abuse matter: What’s the difference?
- Relaxed Statute of Limitation Laws Don’t Apply to Civil Rape Cases
Serving clients throughout the Greater Los Angeles and Southern California area, we represent victims in a variety of civil litigation cases. If you or a loved one has been injured, turn to an experienced Los Angeles personal injury or sexual assault lawyer.
Find out more about Taylor & Ring.