When Your Back Is Against The Wall

Greenville Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Sexual abuse is a devastating violation that can leave survivors with lasting emotional, physical, and psychological trauma. Many survivors struggle with fear, shame, and uncertainty about whether to come forward, often worrying about retaliation or not being believed. No survivor should have to carry this burden alone.

If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse in Greenville, you have the right to seek justice. At Lanier Law Group, we are dedicated to holding perpetrators, institutions, and enablers accountable. Pursuing legal action is about more than financial compensation — it is about reclaiming control, exposing wrongdoing, and helping to prevent future abuse.

What Qualifies as Sexual Abuse?

Sexual abuse is a broad legal term that encompasses various forms of non-consensual sexual contact, coercion, and exploitation. While different states have specific laws defining sexual abuse, the fundamental principle remains the same: any sexual act or behavior that occurs without valid consent is considered abuse.

Non-Consensual Sexual Contact

Sexual abuse includes any unwanted sexual touching or physical contact. This may involve groping, fondling, or forced kissing without the survivor’s consent. In many cases, abusers use their position of power or authority to intimidate victims into compliance.

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

Sexual Assault and Rape

Sexual assault refers to any act of forced or coerced sexual activity, including penetration. Rape is one of the most severe forms of sexual assault and occurs when an individual is subjected to non-consensual intercourse through force, threats, intimidation, or when they are incapacitated and unable to give consent.

Child Sexual Abuse

Any sexual act involving a minor is considered sexual abuse, as children cannot legally consent to sexual activity. This includes inappropriate touching, exposing a child to sexual content, soliciting a minor for sexual purposes, or engaging in sexual acts with a child. Schools, churches, foster care agencies, and other institutions that fail to prevent or address child sexual abuse may be held legally responsible.

Coercion and Abuse of Authority

Sexual abuse is not always violent; it can also involve coercion, manipulation, or abuse of authority. When an individual in a position of power — such as a teacher, employer, doctor, or religious leader — uses their influence to pressure someone into sexual activity, it may qualify as sexual abuse under the law.

Sexual Exploitation and Digital Abuse

Sexual abuse extends beyond physical interactions. Digital abuse, including the non-consensual distribution of intimate images, sextortion, and online grooming, is a growing issue. Many states have enacted laws that criminalize the use of technology to exploit or harass victims. Websites, social media platforms, and technology companies that fail to prevent exploitation may also face legal consequences.

Understanding the legal definitions of sexual abuse can empower survivors to recognize when their rights have been violated and take action. If you or a loved one has experienced any form of sexual abuse, consulting an attorney can help clarify your options and determine the best path forward. Survivors deserve justice, and the law provides avenues to hold perpetrators and negligent institutions accountable.

What Does a Sexual Abuse Lawyer Do?

A sexual abuse lawyer provides survivors with the legal support and advocacy they need to seek justice. These cases require both legal expertise and an understanding of the emotional challenges survivors face. A skilled attorney takes on the legal burden so that survivors can focus on healing while holding those responsible accountable.

Providing a Confidential and Safe Consultation

The legal process begins with a private, confidential consultation where survivors can discuss their experiences in a safe, judgment-free environment. A sexual abuse lawyer listens with compassion, answers questions, and explains potential legal options, whether through a civil lawsuit or other forms of legal action.

Investigating and Gathering Evidence

Building a strong case requires a thorough investigation. A sexual abuse lawyer collects medical records, police reports, witness statements, and other evidence to establish liability. Attorneys may also work with forensic experts and psychologists to document the full impact of the abuse. Even in cases where physical evidence is lacking, legal teams use survivor testimony and expert analysis to build compelling claims.

Filing Lawsuits and Negotiating Settlements

Once a case is prepared, an attorney files the necessary legal documents to initiate the lawsuit. Many sexual abuse cases are resolved through settlements, in which the responsible party agrees to compensate the survivor without going to trial. An experienced lawyer negotiates aggressively on behalf of the survivor, seeking maximum compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages.

Representing Survivors in Court

If a fair settlement is not offered, a sexual abuse lawyer is fully prepared to take the case to trial. Courtroom representation involves presenting evidence, questioning witnesses, and making legal arguments before a judge or jury. A skilled attorney will make sure that the survivor’s story is heard while fighting for the justice they deserve.

Understanding the Rights of Sexual Abuse Survivors

Survivors of sexual abuse have legal rights that protect them and allow them to seek justice against their abusers and any institutions that enabled the abuse. Many survivors hesitate to come forward because they are unsure of their legal options or fear retaliation. Knowing your rights can empower you to take action and hold those responsible accountable.

The Right to Pursue a Civil Lawsuit

In addition to criminal charges that may be brought against a perpetrator, survivors have the right to file a civil lawsuit. A civil claim allows survivors to seek financial compensation for medical expenses, therapy, lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages. Unlike a criminal case, which requires proof beyond a reasonable doubt, a civil case has a lower burden of proof, meaning survivors have a greater chance of obtaining justice even if criminal charges are not filed.

The Right to Privacy

Many survivors worry that coming forward will expose their personal information to the public. However, there are legal protections in place to protect survivor privacy. Courts may allow survivors to file lawsuits using pseudonyms, and certain records can be sealed to prevent unnecessary exposure. Attorneys can also work to resolve cases through confidential settlements when appropriate.

The Right to Hold Institutions Accountable

Survivors have the right to pursue legal action not only against the perpetrator but also against any institution that allowed the abuse to occur. Schools, religious organizations, employers, foster care agencies, and medical facilities can be held liable if they failed to prevent or address sexual abuse. Holding these entities accountable can result in policy changes that help protect others from experiencing similar harm.

The Right to Seek Legal and Emotional Support

Survivors do not have to go through the legal process alone. Experienced attorneys, victim advocacy groups, and mental health professionals are available to provide guidance and support. Many survivors find strength in knowing they have legal professionals fighting for them and mental health resources to help them heal.

Who Can Be Held Liable for Sexual Abuse?

Survivors of sexual abuse have the right to pursue legal claims not only against the perpetrator but also against any organization, employer, or institution that contributed to the abuse. Identifying all responsible parties is a critical step in ensuring justice and preventing further harm.

Employers and Institutions

Workplaces, schools, churches, daycare centers, nursing homes, and other institutions can be held legally responsible if they enabled abuse through negligence. If an organization failed to properly screen employees, ignored complaints, or covered up misconduct, it may bear liability for the harm that resulted. Institutions that place reputation above survivor safety must be held accountable.

Property Owners and Businesses

Hotels, apartment complexes, bars, parking garages, and other property owners may be liable if inadequate security contributed to an assault. Failing to provide proper lighting, working locks, security cameras, or trained staff can create unsafe environments that put individuals at risk.

Third-Party Enablers

In some cases, individuals who were aware of the abuse but failed to intervene or concealed it can also be held accountable. This may include supervisors, religious leaders, family members, or coworkers who had knowledge of the abuse and did nothing to stop it. Holding enablers responsible is an essential part of preventing future misconduct.

Common Misconceptions About Sexual Abuse Cases

Many survivors hesitate to come forward because of common misconceptions about sexual abuse cases. Understanding the truth can empower survivors to take legal action and seek justice.

You Must Have Physical Evidence to File a Lawsuit

While physical evidence can strengthen a case, it is not required to pursue legal action. Survivor testimony is powerful, and attorneys often use expert witnesses, psychological evaluations, and patterns of misconduct to support a claim.

If Criminal Charges Were Dropped, You Can File a Civil Lawsuit

Criminal cases require proof beyond a reasonable doubt, which is a higher standard than civil cases. Even if criminal charges were never filed or resulted in an acquittal, survivors can still pursue civil claims for financial compensation and accountability.

Only Strangers Commit Sexual Abuse

Most sexual abuse is committed by someone the survivor knows and trusts, such as a family member, teacher, coach, clergy member, or employer. This dynamic can make it harder for survivors to come forward, but legal action can help hold the abuser accountable.

Filing a Lawsuit Means You Will Have to Testify in Court

While some cases go to trial, many sexual abuse lawsuits are resolved through settlements. Survivors often do not have to testify publicly, and an attorney can work to achieve a resolution that prioritizes the survivor’s privacy and well-being.

Understanding the Statute of Limitations for Sexual Abuse Cases in Greenville

The statute of limitations determines how long survivors have to file a lawsuit. North Carolina law has expanded the time limits for sexual abuse claims, but it is still essential to act quickly.

The SAFE Child Act, passed in 2019, extended the statute of limitations for childhood sexual abuse cases. Under this law, survivors who were abused as children now have until age 28 to file a civil lawsuit.

For adult survivors of sexual abuse, the deadline to file a lawsuit varies depending on the circumstances. Some cases may qualify for extensions based on when the abuse was discovered or whether the case involves institutional negligence. Even if you believe the deadline has passed, legal exceptions may allow you to file a claim.

How Therapy and Counseling Support Sexual Abuse Survivors

Healing from sexual abuse is a long and challenging journey, and therapy can play a crucial role in helping survivors process their trauma and regain a sense of control. Many survivors struggle with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and trust issues that affect their daily lives. Professional counseling provides survivors with a safe space to work through their emotions and develop coping mechanisms for the long term.

There are several types of therapy that can help survivors heal, including trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and group therapy. Trauma-focused therapy helps survivors reframe negative thoughts and reduce triggers that cause distress. EMDR is often used to help survivors process traumatic memories in a way that lessens their emotional impact. Group therapy can also be valuable, allowing survivors to connect with others who have had similar experiences.

In many cases, the cost of therapy can be a barrier to getting help. A civil lawsuit can seek compensation for past, present, and future therapy expenses, ensuring that survivors have access to the mental health care they need. No one should have to suffer in silence, and legal action can provide the resources necessary for healing.

Take the First Step Toward Justice

If you are a survivor of sexual abuse in Greenville, you may feel uncertain about taking legal action. You do not have to go through this alone. You have the right to seek justice, hold those responsible accountable, and reclaim your future. With advanced trauma-informed care training, our attorneys are prepared to advocate for survivors of sexual assault with the sensitivity, respect, and understanding they need.

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.

Ready to get started? Call 252-429-5161 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

Fighting for Your Rights, Winning Maximum Recovery

100% Free Consults

First Name

Last Name

Phone

Are you a new client?

How can we help you?

By submitting, you agree to be contacted about your request & other information using automated technology. Message frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Text STOP to cancel. Acceptable Use Policy

Greenville

We Fight for Our Clients

*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.

- Mario H.

"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.

Don't Hire Just Any Firm

Take Control of Your Case Today With the Help of Lanier Law Group

We Never Back Down

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

We're Here For You 24/7

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.

We're In Your Corner

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 the highest quality legal counsel.