Ajax Sexual Abuse Lawyer

A deeply traumatic crime that often goes unreported due to social stigmas and the manipulative nature of the crime itself, sexual abuse is devastatingly common in Canada. A 2014 study reported approximately 1 in 10 Canadians have been the targets of childhood sexual abuse, very often at the hands of family members. And yet, 93% of child abuse cases are not brought forward to law enforcement or child welfare services. Sexual abuse is likewise prevalent in instances of spousal violence among adults.

Sexual abuse is an indictable offence under the Canadian Criminal Code, and an individual found guilty may face substantial prison time. If you have been the target of sexual abuse at any time, you may be eligible to legal recourse as well as potential compensation to help cover bills and debts incurred as a result of the abuse. Contact us today to book a free initial consultation with our Ajax sexual abuse lawyers and discuss your case. 

What Is Sexual Abuse?

Sexual abuse is a form of abusive sexual behaviour in which one person takes advantage of another. Whereas the term sexual assault is typically used to describe one instance of sexual violence, sexual abuse is used to describe ongoing abusive actions. The actions may involve unwanted sexual touching of any kind, with or without physical violence, and they may encompass instances of non-contact offences, including voyeurism or sexual exposure.

Cases of sexual abuse commonly involve an imbalance of power. The perpetrator may be an older family figure, for example, such as a parent or grandparent, or a trusted teacher, clergy member, or sports coach. They may be a spouse on whom the target is financially dependent. Layers of emotional manipulation, dependence, and shame may prevent survivors from stepping forward, or from even acknowledging the extent to which they have been abused.

The Effects of Sexual Abuse

The trauma of sexual abuse can lead to life-altering adverse effects on a survivor’s life. From ongoing anxiety to disassociation, panic attacks, and chronic depression, the link between mental health conditions and the experience of sexual abuse is crushingly common.

Statute of Limitations

Perpetrators of sexual abuse often leverage their place in positions of power in relation to their victims in order to keep their actions hidden. Because of the complex nature of sexual abuse cases, in Ontario there is no statute of limitations (i.e., time limit) on how long a survivor has to come forward. Even if the abuse occurred many years ago, there may be legal recourse available to survivors of sexual violence.

Call Our Ajax Sexual Abuse Lawyers Today

At Preszler Injury Lawyers, we are sensitive to the courage it takes to step forward with a sexual abuse claim, and understand the many unique nuances and complexities that can accompany any given case. We are committed to helping our clients receive the financial compensation to which they are entitled. Call us at 1-800-Justice or contact us through our online booking form to schedule a free, confidential, no-obligation consultation with our Ajax sexual abuse lawyers today.