When Your Back Is Against The Wall

Greenville Sexual Abuse Lawyers

If you are a survivor of sexual abuse, the pain and confusion you may be carrying are real. Whether the abuse occurred recently or years ago, deciding to come forward is an incredibly difficult and deeply personal decision. Many survivors in Greenville and throughout Eastern North Carolina stay silent because they are unsure of their rights, afraid of not being believed, or uncertain about how to begin the legal process.

At Lanier Law Group, we want you to know that you are not alone. Civil legal action is one way to take back control, seek justice, and begin healing. A civil lawsuit allows you to hold the people and institutions who caused or enabled harm accountable. It also offers a path to financial support that can help you rebuild your life. If you are considering your options, our team is here to guide you—confidentially, respectfully, and with the strength you need to move forward.

The Legal Strength Behind Every Survivor We Represent

Survivors throughout North Carolina trust Lanier Law Group because of our consistent results, compassionate representation, and deep commitment to justice. In Greenville, we have helped clients take legal action against individuals, schools, churches, and other institutions that failed to protect them. Our work is rooted in trauma-informed support and backed by a strong team approach.

25+ Years Fighting for Injured North Carolinians

With over two decades of experience in civil litigation, our attorneys have handled some of the most complex and emotionally charged cases in the state. We understand the legal nuances of sexual abuse claims and know how to develop the evidence needed to hold both abusers and enablers accountable.

In-House Investigators and Support Staff

We do not rely on outside firms to build your case. Our in-house team includes trained investigators, legal assistants, and claims professionals who work collaboratively to gather documents, interview witnesses, and pursue every lead. This structure helps us move quickly and effectively while keeping you informed along the way.

24/7 Availability for Urgent Survivor Needs

We know that reaching out can be difficult and time sensitive. That is why our team is available around the clock to answer your questions or set up a consultation. You can contact us at any hour and expect a compassionate, prompt response.

Offices Across NC With Experience in Pitt County Courts

Lanier Law Group has a strong statewide presence, including experience in courts across Eastern North Carolina. We understand how local institutions operate and are familiar with Greenville-area school districts, healthcare providers, and other organizations that may be involved in abuse cases. That local insight allows us to act quickly and strategically on your behalf.

To get started, call 919-342-1368 today.

How Civil Lawsuits Help Sexual Abuse Survivors Heal

Survivors often wonder whether filing a lawsuit will worsen their trauma or lead to unnecessary stress. While the process does require courage, it is also a powerful tool for healing. Civil litigation puts you back in control and forces wrongdoers to answer for their actions in a setting where your voice is respected.

Differences Between Civil and Criminal Claims

A criminal case is brought by the state and focuses on punishing the abuser with jail time or other penalties. A civil claim, on the other hand, is filed by the survivor and seeks compensation for the harm caused. Civil cases also allow you to name institutions or third parties that enabled the abuse.

These two systems operate independently. Even if there was no criminal case or if charges were dropped, you can still pursue justice in civil court.

Why Many Survivors Choose Civil Court

Civil lawsuits offer survivors more control than criminal proceedings. You decide when to file, what outcome you are seeking, and how involved you want to be. In many cases, civil court provides a more survivor-focused experience, allowing you to move at your own pace with legal professionals who prioritize your comfort and safety.

Civil court also uses a lower burden of proof. You do not have to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Instead, you must show that it is more likely than not that the abuse occurred. This standard makes civil cases more accessible for many survivors.

Compensation as a Tool for Rebuilding

While no amount of money can undo what happened, financial compensation can provide meaningful support. Civil claims allow you to seek damages for therapy, medical expenses, lost income, and emotional suffering. In some cases, punitive damages are available to punish especially negligent institutions.

This compensation helps survivors access the resources they need to recover and regain stability.

Recognizing Where Abuse Happens in Greenville

Sexual abuse can happen in any setting where trust is placed in adults to care for children, students, or vulnerable individuals. In Greenville, many survivors report being harmed in institutional environments where oversight failed and safety protocols were ignored.

Public and Private Schools

Abuse in schools often involves teachers, coaches, counselors, or administrators who exploit their authority. When school districts fail to respond to complaints, conduct proper background checks, or supervise staff, they may be held liable. These cases are especially important in a region with a strong public education system and multiple private academies.

Churches and Youth Ministries

Faith-based organizations provide leadership and mentorship for many families in Greenville, but they have also been the subject of abuse claims. Clergy members, volunteers, and youth group leaders can misuse their authority in devastating ways. If church leadership failed to act on concerns or protect members, they may share responsibility under civil law.

We help clients sue institutions for abuse in Greenville when religious organizations ignored warning signs or violated trust.

Medical and Care Facilities

Hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities are entrusted with vulnerable individuals. Abuse in these settings may involve doctors, nurses, aides, or administrative staff. Institutions that fail to screen employees or investigate misconduct may be held accountable in a civil lawsuit.

University-Affiliated Programs

As home to East Carolina University and affiliated healthcare and athletic programs, Greenville sees many students and community members interacting with institutional systems. Abuse may occur in academic departments, housing facilities, or extracurricular activities. When universities overlook complaints or retain individuals with troubling histories, they may face legal consequences for their inaction.

Understanding Institutional Responsibility

Civil law allows you to pursue claims not only against abusers but also against the organizations that enabled them. Institutions are often held responsible when they fail to report abuse, hire individuals with known issues, or create unsafe conditions where harm can occur.

Failure to Report or Investigate

North Carolina law requires certain professionals and institutions to report suspected abuse. When schools, churches, or healthcare providers receive complaints and do nothing, they may be held liable. We obtain records, emails, and policy documents to determine whether mandatory reporting laws were followed—or ignored.

Hiring Individuals With Prior Misconduct

Institutions have a duty to conduct background checks and review employment histories. When they hire someone with a record of inappropriate behavior or dismiss red flags, they open the door to legal liability. We investigate hiring procedures, reference checks, and previous disciplinary actions to expose negligent decisions.

Creating or Allowing Unsafe Environments

Abuse thrives in settings without clear safety policies or supervision. Whether that means a daycare center that lacks adequate staffing, a church that fails to separate minors from unsupervised adults, or a hospital that overlooks patient concerns, the result is the same—someone gets hurt, and the institution is responsible. We hold these entities accountable for the systems they failed to implement or enforce.

Can I File if the Abuse Happened Years Ago?

One of the most common questions we hear is whether it is too late to take legal action. The answer depends on the specific circumstances of your case, but many adult survivors of childhood abuse in North Carolina still have options. The state has extended the civil statute of limitations to give more people the opportunity to seek justice.

Time Limits for Adult and Child Survivors

In most cases, adults who were recently abused have three years to file a civil claim. For childhood sexual abuse, survivors generally have until their twenty-eighth birthday. If the abuse occurred before this change in the law, additional rules may apply.

The “Discovery Rule” in Trauma Cases

Trauma often delays a survivor’s ability to process or remember what happened. North Carolina courts recognize this reality through the discovery rule, which may allow you to file within a certain period after uncovering the abuse—even if that awareness came long after the event itself.

This exception is especially relevant for survivors who repressed memories or were manipulated into staying silent.

New Laws That Extend Legal Windows

Recent changes in state law have given survivors more time to take action. These reforms acknowledge the long-term nature of trauma and the importance of making the legal system accessible. If you are unsure whether you can still file, we can review your timeline and help you understand your rights.

Who Can File a Sexual Abuse Lawsuit?

In North Carolina, several parties may be eligible to bring a civil lawsuit after sexual abuse. Whether you are an adult survivor of childhood abuse, a parent of a harmed minor, or a guardian of a vulnerable individual, you may have the legal standing to pursue justice through the civil court system.

Adult Survivors of Childhood Abuse

If you experienced sexual abuse as a child in Greenville, you may still be able to file a claim as an adult. Many survivors delay disclosure for years, often due to fear, confusion, or repressed trauma. North Carolina law recognizes this and allows extended filing periods for childhood sexual abuse claims. Our team will evaluate your timeline and determine whether the statute of limitations still allows for a civil lawsuit.

Parents Acting on Behalf of Children

If your child has been harmed in a school, church, daycare, or any other setting, you have the legal right to file a lawsuit on their behalf. These claims can seek compensation for medical costs, therapy, educational disruption, and emotional trauma. We also work closely with parents to ensure that the child’s identity and privacy are protected throughout the legal process.

Adults Filing for Incapacitated or Elderly Survivors

Survivors who are incapacitated or elderly may require the assistance of a legal guardian or family member to file a civil claim. Abuse in assisted living facilities, hospitals, or care centers is unfortunately more common than many realize. If you are acting on behalf of a vulnerable adult, our attorneys will help you understand your role and legal options.

What to Expect From the Legal Process in Greenville

Many survivors feel hesitant to take legal action because they do not know what to expect. Understanding how the civil process works in Pitt County can help you feel more prepared and supported from the start.

Initial Consultation and Privacy Protocols

The process begins with a free, confidential consultation. You are welcome to speak with us in person, over the phone, or virtually. Everything you share is protected and will not be shared with anyone outside the legal team. This meeting is an opportunity for you to ask questions, discuss your concerns, and learn what your options are.

Case Investigation and Filing

If you choose to move forward, our team begins investigating your claim. This includes gathering documents, identifying potential defendants, interviewing witnesses, and securing expert input. Once your case is ready, we file the lawsuit in the appropriate North Carolina court and formally notify the opposing parties.

Negotiation, Settlement, or Trial Proceedings

Most civil lawsuits for sexual abuse are resolved through settlement negotiations. However, we prepare every case for trial from the beginning. Our goal is to position you for the strongest possible outcome, whether that means a fair settlement or a courtroom verdict. You will be guided and supported through every phase, with full control over any final decisions.

Protecting Your Privacy During Litigation

You should never have to choose between seeking justice and protecting your privacy. At Lanier Law Group, we use every available legal safeguard to ensure that your identity, your story, and your emotional safety are protected during the entire legal process.

Filing Under Pseudonyms or Initials

Many survivors prefer to file lawsuits anonymously, using only their initials or a pseudonym such as “Jane Doe.” This approach prevents your real name from appearing in public court documents or media coverage. Our team will handle this step and ensure all paperwork is filed with your privacy in mind.

Sealing Court Records

In some cases, we may request that the court seal specific documents that include sensitive information. These sealed records cannot be accessed by the public and remain confidential. Courts often grant these requests in cases involving minors, vulnerable adults, or graphic descriptions of abuse.

Handling Media Inquiries and Public Exposure

If your case gains public attention, we will take additional steps to shield you from unwanted exposure. This may include limiting access to court proceedings, managing statements made to the press, or working with your therapist to manage the emotional impact of publicity. You will always be consulted before any information is released.

What Damages Can Be Recovered in a Civil Claim?

A civil lawsuit allows survivors to recover compensation for the financial, physical, and emotional harm caused by abuse. These damages reflect the real-life consequences of trauma and help support your healing process.

Medical and Therapeutic Treatment Costs

Survivors are often left with ongoing healthcare needs, including therapy, psychiatric care, medications, and medical treatment related to the abuse. These costs can quickly add up. We seek to recover both past and future expenses so you can access care without financial stress.

Loss of Income or Job Disruption

Abuse may impact your ability to work, concentrate, or remain in a chosen profession. Some survivors are forced to leave their jobs or reduce their hours due to emotional distress or PTSD. If your career was affected, we include lost income and reduced earning potential in your claim.

Pain, Suffering, and Emotional Distress

Emotional harm is one of the most significant and lasting consequences of abuse. You may be entitled to compensation for depression, anxiety, PTSD, and loss of enjoyment of life. These damages acknowledge that healing is about more than physical recovery—it also involves your emotional and psychological well-being.

Punitive Damages for Institutional Misconduct

In cases where a school, church, or organization actively concealed abuse or ignored repeated warnings, the court may award punitive damages. These are intended to punish the institution and prevent similar behavior in the future. We pursue these damages when the facts support a finding of gross negligence or intentional misconduct.

How Our Team Builds Strong Cases for Survivors

Lanier Law Group approaches every case with meticulous care, attention to detail, and a commitment to protecting our clients. We build claims that are clear, well-supported, and survivor-focused from the beginning.

Investigating Past Complaints and Internal Records

We obtain documents that reveal how the institution handled prior complaints, reports of misconduct, or staff transfers. These records often uncover patterns of behavior that strengthen your claim. If earlier concerns were raised and ignored, that failure becomes powerful evidence.

Working With Trauma Experts and Psychologists

We bring in experts who understand the psychological effects of abuse and can explain its impact on your life. These professionals may provide evaluations, written opinions, or testimony that supports your damages claim. They also help us ensure that the legal process does not interfere with your emotional recovery.

Presenting Survivor Narratives With Clarity and Care

Your story is central to the case. We work closely with you to share it in a way that is truthful, legally effective, and emotionally safe. Whether through written statements, depositions, or courtroom presentations, your voice will be heard. We never pressure you to disclose more than you are ready for, and we structure the case around your comfort and consent.

Speak With a Greenville Sexual Abuse Lawyer Today

You do not have to face this process on your own. Whether you are ready to file a civil lawsuit or simply want to understand your rights, Lanier Law Group is here to help. We support survivors in Greenville and across Pitt County with compassion, confidentiality, and legal strength.

Your consultation is free and completely confidential. You pay nothing unless we win compensation for you. Reach out today to speak with a Greenville sexual abuse lawyer who will advocate for your healing, your rights, and your future.

We are ready to listen, support, and help you move forward. Call us at 919-342-1368 or contact us online to begin your path toward justice.

Ready to get started? Call 919-342-1368 today for a confidential consultation with an experienced sexual abuse attorney. You can also contact us online to discuss your case. Remember, your story matters. We’re here to help and support you through every step of your healing process — and we never back down from a fight.

We Won't Back Down

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*Featured Case Results, Settlements, & Trial Wins From Our Attorneys

$5.95 Million

Permanent Brain Failure

Our client had a brick fly off of a utility trailer and go through their windshield and hit her on the face.

$4.8 Million

Settlement

A case with multiple plaintiffs who were potentially exposed to a deadly disease while in the hospital.

$4.3 Million

Head-On Collision

Personal injury litigation settlement for a client who was involved in a head-on collision with a commercial tractor-trailer.

$3.1 Million

Birth Injury/Hypoxic Brain Injury

The OB doctor’s negligence caused a delay in the baby’s birth which resulted in the baby suffering of a severe hypoxic brain injury.

$1.8 Million

Litigation Settlement

Our client was involved in a motor vehicle accident with a meat truck.

$1.375 Million

Medication Overdose/Hospital

Our client died following an overdose of medication that occurred as a result of the negligence of the nursery staff while they were in the hospital.

We Never Back Down From a Fight

Featured Reviews, Testimonials & Results

"20 out of 10 stars."

There are times in your life you are so hurt and feel life has a grudge against you. Nothing in your life is going right. I lost the most important person in my life to death, of which I knew mistakes were made because I witnessed it with my own eyes. When you contact a law group you most of the time get all business and a matter of fact conversation. I want all to know that from the first phone call they listened to my lengthy story, sobbing most of the time with so much compassion. They never made any promises but offered assurances that no stone would be unturned. They fulfilled every word they said. They restored faith that I had lost. Until you are in a position like mine you can never know how invaluable Lanier Law Group is. They were wonderful while maintaining their professionalism. They treated me like a family member. They really do care about their clients. But most of all they are the best at what they do. I worked in the court system for years so I knew how attorneys and law firms basically operated. Understanding the law and it’s interpretation is the ultimate key to winning any case. Also know that if an attorney/attorneys study and review your case and know that you don’t have a chance in a court of law and are big enough to tell you that instead of giving you false hope, you then my friend have a group with valuable shared values. I have so much respect for everyone in this Law Group. I recommend Lanier Law Group, P.A. to anyone who needs representation, they are in your corner. 20 out of 10 stars.

- Diane W.

"Lanier Law Group will always be the choice for me and all my family members"

I started working with Lanier Law Group in 2020 on my Social Security Disability case. They from start to finish were awesome. My case manager Janet Hanks and attorney, Ashley Sappenfield were always available to answer all my questions. I did not have to do much but sit back and let them handle whatever was needed. My case took too long (2 years) and if I did not have Janet and Ashley My case would still not be approved. I would recommend Lanier to anyone to get the job done and approved. Do not go to another firm with your case, who promise the world and do not see it to completion and do not think another firms would have worked as hard as they did on my case. Lanier Law Group will always be the choice for me and all my family members to handle any cases of this type and other legal services they provide. They went above and beyond!

- Phillip J.

"So thankful for your expertise and professionalism"

Mrs. Gonzalez did an awesome job of explaining everything in detail and keeping me informed on the status of my case. Despite poor customer service with the insurance company, Mrs. Gonzalez was able to fix what they could not. Mrs. Gonzalez was very helpful with helping me understand things that I was not aware of when dealing with insurance claims. I am so thankful for her expertise and professionalism.

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"Always ready to answer any questions I may have"

The staff kept me well informed in a more than timely manner and was always ready to answer any questions I may have.

- Timothy M.

"The Lanier Law Group provided excellent customer service!"

The Lanier Law Group provided excellent customer service! My main contact was Denise.

- Malinda P.

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We Never Back Down

Our attorneys are confident taking cases to trial and will always seek to maximize your compensation.

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Regardless of when you contact our firm, we're here to make sure that you get the answers you need. We also offer weekend appointments and consultations.

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Every case we take on has a team of dedicated professionals assigned to make sure that we're delivering the best possible service and results.

We Come Prepared

After an injury, every second counts. We are available to meet with you in person, virtually, or at your location to provide you with counsel and start delivering results.