Henderson NV Sexual Assault Lawyers

Sexual assault, often confused with sexual harassment, is considered a serious crime in the State of Nevada and is punishable by law. In addition to facing criminal penalties, a person who commits and is found guilty of sexual assault may also face civil action that can be brought on by the victim of the assault.

If you were sexually assaulted by someone and would like to discuss the matter with a professional who will put your best interests first, you should speak with a Henderson sexual assault lawyer. High Stakes Injury Law offers legal services to those in need of legal advice after being sexually assaulted. If you aren’t sure what your next steps should be, you can contact us at (702) 444-3228 for assistance.

How the State of Nevada Defines Sexual Assault

When a person “subjects another person to sexual penetration, or forces another person to make sexual penetration on himself or herself,” they are considered to be guilty of sexual assault, according to NRS §200.366. An individual can also be found guilty of sexual assault if they sexually penetrate a child under the age of 14 or someone who is physically or cognitively handicapped and unable to consent.

It is important for you to understand that if you did not consent to the sexual act, there are ways you can hold the perpetrator accountable for their behavior.

What You Need to Know About Sexual Assault

Sexual assault doesn’t always have to be an isolated incident that involves someone you don’t know. It can actually happen in a place where you feel most comfortable, such as your home or school. In fact, some of the perpetrators of sexual assault include:

• Teachers
• Instructors
• Entertainment industry agents
• Employers
• Doctors
• Family members
• Friends of the family
• Acquaintances

Significant others or spouses are also often perpetrators. According to the Department of Health & Human Services (HHS), nearly half of the rape victims who come forward were sexually assaulted by a current or former partner. A perpetrator may attempt to sexually assault an individual when presented with the opportunity or might lure a victim into an unsafe situation by leading them to believe they can trust them.

If you were sexually assaulted by someone you know or someone you just met, you shouldn’t wait to contact the authorities—or work with a Henderson sexual assault lawyer. In sexual assault cases, the evidence must be quickly collected and preserved, as this will help you build a criminal and civil case against the individual. If you are fearful that the individual who sexually assaulted you will retaliate or are worried about what might happen if you report the incident to the police, you are encouraged to contact High Stakes Injury Law today.

There Are Legal Remedies Available to Sexual Assault Victims

Because sexual assault is a crime, the individual who is accused of committing it could face severe penalties if they are convicted. This might include serving time in jail, paying hefty fines and fees, and more. Although a conviction can certainly help a sexual assault victim gain some sort of closure, it doesn’t provide the victim with any type of financial relief to make up for how the incident(s) has impacted their life.

For instance, if you are currently suffering from a mental disorder because of the experience you endured or cannot work because you are having a hard time coping with what you went through, you should be provided with some sort of financial relief. This relief may not only help you afford medical treatment, but it can also make it possible for you to take time away from work so that you can recover and move past this troubling time. Generally, if you can prove that a person sexually assaulted you and the incident has impacted your life in one or more ways, you can bring a lawsuit against them.

This not only means the individual will be recognized for sexual assault, but he/she could also be held liable for compensating you, the victim. Some of the things you may be entitled to recover compensation for include:

• Past and future pain and suffering
• Past and future mental anguish
• Medical expenses
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Future loss of earning capacity

When a Child Is Sexually Assaulted

Unfortunately, sexual assault is common among individuals who are age 25 and younger. The HHS says that about 40% of the women who have been raped were under the age of 25 and that two in every five were under the age of 18. If you think your child was sexually assaulted, you can also contact our team for legal help.

If your child was under the age of 18, you might be able to bring a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator on behalf of your child. Your child may also be entitled to recover any of the damages listed above, given they apply.

Connect with an Attorney at Our Office Now

A sexual assault can have both short and long-term effects on a victim and their family. When a person violates your trust and takes advantage of you, it can be hard to move on and live your life the way you once could. The lawyers at High Stakes Injury Law understand how traumatic these events can be and are ready to help anyone who has been victimized by an instructor, significant other, or stranger.

If you were sexually assaulted and are ready to become familiar with what your legal rights are and how they can be exercised, contact us at (702) 444-3228.