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Rock Hill Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Sexual abuse is a profound violation that can leave survivors with lasting emotional, physical, and psychological trauma. Many survivors also face overwhelming legal challenges when seeking justice, unsure of their rights or how to hold those responsible accountable. If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse in Rock Hill, South Carolina, you deserve compassionate support, aggressive legal representation, and a legal team that will stand by you every step of the way.

At Lanier Law Group, we are committed to helping survivors seek justice, obtain financial compensation, and hold individuals and institutions accountable for their wrongdoing. Our team understands the courage it takes to come forward, and we are here to guide you through the legal process while prioritizing your well-being.

What Qualifies as Sexual Abuse in South Carolina?

Sexual abuse refers to any non-consensual sexual act or behavior, especially when force, coercion, or manipulation is involved. South Carolina law defines a range of offenses under the category of sexual abuse, each carrying different legal consequences. Some of the most common forms of sexual abuse include:

Criminal Sexual Conduct

Often referred to as rape, criminal sexual conduct involves forced or non-consensual sexual intercourse. The severity of the charge depends on factors such as whether a weapon was used, the victim’s age, or whether the victim was incapacitated.

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Sexual Battery

Sexual battery includes unwanted sexual contact, such as groping or fondling, that does not involve penetration. These acts are criminal offenses under South Carolina law and can carry serious penalties.

Statutory Rape

Even if a minor appears to consent, South Carolina law states that minors cannot legally provide consent to sexual activity. Any sexual relationship between an adult and a minor is considered statutory rape and can lead to severe legal consequences.

Sexual Exploitation

Sexual exploitation includes offenses such as coercing someone into sexual activity for financial gain, distributing or possessing explicit images of minors, or abusing a position of power to manipulate a victim.

Sexual Abuse by a Person in Authority

When a teacher, coach, religious leader, employer, or another authority figure uses their position of power to coerce a victim into sexual activity, it is considered abuse. Institutions that ignore or cover up these offenses may also be held accountable.

South Carolina law recognizes that lack of physical resistance does not mean consent. Many survivors experience a freeze response due to fear or shock, preventing them from fighting back. Additionally, individuals who are intoxicated, unconscious, or mentally incapacitated cannot legally consent to any sexual activity.

Criminal vs. Civil Sexual Abuse Cases in South Carolina

Survivors of sexual abuse have legal options, but the legal system can be complex and overwhelming. Understanding the difference between criminal and civil cases is crucial in deciding the best course of action.

Criminal Cases

Criminal cases are prosecuted by the state and focus on punishing the offender. If found guilty, the responsible party may face prison time, fines, probation, and mandatory sex offender registration. However, criminal cases require proof beyond a reasonable doubt, which is a high standard to meet. Additionally, criminal charges do not provide direct financial compensation to the survivor.

Civil Lawsuits

Civil lawsuits allow survivors to seek financial compensation for the harm they have suffered. These claims can be filed against both the individual abuser and any institution that enabled or failed to prevent the abuse. Compensation in a civil case can cover medical expenses, therapy costs, lost wages, and emotional distress. Civil cases require a lower burden of proof than criminal cases, making it more likely for survivors to achieve justice.

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Your road to recovery starts now. Call 919-342-1368 or contact us online for a free consultation. Let us take on the legal battle so you can focus on healing and moving forward.

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