The damages you may be entitled to in a Louisiana sexual abuse claim can vary but often include:

• Medical Expenses: Reimbursement for any medical treatment, including therapy, counseling, or physical care.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the emotional trauma and suffering caused by the abuse.
• Loss of Income: If the assault or abuse affected your ability to work, you may be compensated for lost wages or future earning potential.
• Punitive Damages: In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the perpetrator and any responsible organizations.

An experienced sexual assault attorney will work with you to calculate the appropriate damages for your case.

No, you are not required to file a police report in order to pursue a civil lawsuit in Louisiana. However, reporting the abuse to law enforcement may help strengthen your civil case, as it creates a record of the incident. Whether or not you report the assault to the police, a civil claim can still be filed to seek compensation for the harm you’ve suffered.

In Louisiana, victims of child sexual abuse have no time limit to file a civil claim. This law changed in 2021, removing the statute of limitations for child sexual abuse claims and providing a lookback window for older cases.

For adult victims, the timeframe to file a civil claim is generally one year from the date of the incident. However, there are some exceptions to this rule depending on the specific circumstances of your case, which is why it’s important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible.

Yes, organizations such as schools, churches, or employers can be held liable for sexual abuse if they failed to prevent or knowingly covered up the misconduct. Many institutions have been found negligent in addressing sexual abuse, making them accountable for the trauma inflicted on victims. These cases often involve complex legal challenges, which is why working with an experienced sexual abuse attorney is critical.

The value of a sexual abuse lawsuit depends on multiple factors, including the severity of the abuse, the long-term impact on your health and well-being, and the parties involved. While no amount of money can undo the damage, financial compensation can provide the support you need for recovery.

At Brandt & Sherman, our sexual assault lawyers are skilled at calculating both the economic and non-economic damages related to your case. We will fight to ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to for your medical bills, emotional distress, lost income, and more.