Special Needs Sexual Abuse

Our Attorneys Offer Compassionate and Experienced Legal Representation Nationwide

Overview: Special Needs Sexual Abuse

The special needs community suffers from one of the highest rates of sexual assault in America.

Individuals with physical or cognitive disabilities are known to be at a greater risk for sexual assault. A yearlong investigation uncovered that sexual assault and abuse of people with intellectual disabilities occurs as much as SEVEN TIMES more often than to people without special needs.

According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, people with special needs are targeted as crime victims more often than people without. This includes sexual violence and sexual harassment.

The abuse often goes unreported because victims do not feel safe enough to talk about what happened to them or do not think they will be believed. Some victims may not have the capacity to communicate their stories of abuse. Some victims do not understand what sexual assault is and that it is against the law.

Where Does Abuse of People With Disabilities Occur Most Often?

People with special needs and disabilities are particularly vulnerable to sexual assault and abuse. People with special needs may be at risk of sexual abuse, in many instances assaulted by someone they know and trust. Special needs individuals are also more likely to be assaulted at places they should feel safest and during daytime hours. Sexual assault may occur in the following places:

• Nursing homes
• Group home facilities
• Long term care facilities
• Special needs camps
• Childcare facilities
• Schools
• In the home with a healthcare provider

There is often a high turnover rate among caregivers in these settings. Perpetrators who commit sex crimes in these settings may never be charged or convicted. Instead, they move on to their next target.

For many survivors of sexual assault and abuse, justice may be obtained through a civil lawsuit. It is important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible after you or someone you love was abused. An experienced sexual assault attorney with our firm can help you determine if you have a viable sexual assault claim.

Sexual Assault Verdicts and Settlements

Sexual predators target special needs individuals because the predator sees them as easy prey.  People with intellectual disabilities may not be aware that what happened to them is wrong and that they can file a lawsuit against the perpetrator and, oftentimes, the facility. A sexual abuse lawsuit may help to compensate for emotional trauma and other damages a victim may be experiencing after being sexually assaulted.

Sexual abuse survivors have enlisted legal help from law firms like Grant & Eisenhofer P.A. to bring justice to their claims.

What Can You Do If You Have Special Needs and Were Sexually Assaulted?

If you or someone you love has an intellectual or physical disability and was sexually assaulted or abused, call Grant & Eisenhofer P.A. to speak with our experienced team of attorneys. It is important to know that the assault is not the victim’s fault and that you are not alone. Our compassionate, experienced attorneys can help you understand your rights.

Discuss Your Potential Case With Our Experienced Attorneys

If you or someone you love has special needs and was sexually assaulted, contact the attorneys at Grant & Eisenhofer P.A. Our legal team understands that filing a sexual assault lawsuit is a very sensitive and important decision. We will take the time to listen to your concerns and answer any questions you may have.

Contact our firm online or by calling (855) 244-2031 to discuss your potential case with our compassionate and experienced attorneys. We offer free consultations.