Were you or your child the victim of molestation in Friendswood, TX? If so, you may be able to take legal action against the person or institution responsible. The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd Personal Injury Lawyers is here to help you fight to secure compensation and justice.
Our compassionate Friendswood child molestation attorneys have 58 years of combined experience and have recovered over $500 million for injury victims across Texas. We will be at your side throughout the entire legal process and won’t hesitate to fight for you in court if necessary.
Contact us today at (281) 992-8633 for a free initial consultation to learn about your legal rights and options.
How The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd Can Help With Your Child Molestation Claim in Friendswood, Texas
When a child or adult is molested in Friendswood, Texas, the criminal justice system focuses on punishing the perpetrator. A civil lawsuit, on the other hand, focuses on your recovery as best as the legal system can.
Our Friendswood sexual assault lawyers can help you with your civil claim by:
- Conducting a private investigation into what happened
- Working with law enforcement and prosecutors when appropriate
- Identifying all of the responsible parties
- Collecting the evidence necessary to prove your claim on your behalf
- Negotiating a fair settlement or taking your case to trial, if needed
We understand the delicate nature of these cases as well as what’s at stake, so we’ll make your case a top priority from the beginning.
Contact our law office in Friendswood, Texas, today to learn more and schedule a complimentary consultation.
Who Can Be Held Liable for Child Molestation in Texas?
While the perpetrator is always responsible for the abuse itself, other parties can also be held liable if their negligence contributed.
Examples include:
- Schools and daycares that failed to perform background checks and/or ignored complaints
- Churches and youth organizations that covered up or allowed inappropriate behavior
- Employers who failed to supervise workers with known risks
- Property owners who allowed dangerous conditions, including unsupervised contact
Texas law allows victims to seek monetary damages when an individual or institution’s carelessness contributes to sexual abuse. A personal injury lawsuit can help expose systemic problems and prevent others from being harmed as well.
What Damages Can Be Recovered in a Child Molestation Lawsuit?
A civil claim for sexual abuse can provide financial recovery for both economic and non-economic damages.
Depending on your case, you may be entitled to:
- Medical expenses, including therapy and counseling
- Lost income or loss of earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and trauma-related disorders
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Punitive damages, in cases involving egregious or intentional conduct
Our personal injury lawyers will carefully calculate your damages and work hard to secure compensation based on all of your specific losses.
How Does a Civil Case Differ from a Criminal Case?
Many people believe that once a criminal case has been filed, they cannot also bring a lawsuit. In fact, however, criminal and civil cases are separate.
More specifically:
- The state files criminal proceedings, which can result in prison and fines.
- Civil lawsuits are filed by victims and seek monetary compensation.
Importantly, note that you can pursue a civil claim regardless of whether the perpetrator was convicted (or even whether they were charged). One reason for this is that the burden of proof is lower in civil court than it is in criminal court.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit for Child Molestation in Texas?
Texas has extended the statute of limitations for sexual abuse victims. In most cases, survivors have 30 years after their 18th birthday or until they turn 48 to file a civil lawsuit.
However, the rules can vary depending on the unique facts and circumstances of the case at hand. For example, if the case involves a government institution, additional notice requirements may apply.
It’s best to contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you take legal action on time. Waiting too long can make it harder to locate evidence and witnesses needed to support your claim.
Contact Our Friendswood Child Molestation Attorneys for a Free Consultation
If you or your child were the victim of molestation in Friendswood, TX, The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd can help you take action and seek the justice you deserve. With 58 years of combined experience and over $500 million recovered, we have a proven track record of success.
Schedule a free consultation. Our Friendswood child molestation lawyers will do everything in their power to help you make things right.
