Barrie Sexual Assault Civil Lawyers

We need you to know that you are not alone in this. As a sexual assault civil law firm in Barrie with decades of experience handling sexual abuse cases, we have supported so many clients through the same fears and the rollercoaster of emotions the process can bring.

Our approach, skills, and emotional intelligence can make a difference to a sexual abuse survivor at a critical point in their journey to recovery. With years of experience, and a proven track record of success, our team of Barrie sexual assault lawyers is one of the country’s leading sexual abuse civil litigation law firms.

We have a special focus on representing survivors of:

• Historic Sexual Abuse
• Institutional Sexual Abuse
• Physician Sexual Abuse
• Childhood Sexual Abuse
• Male Victims of Sexual Abuse
• Family and Foster Care Sexual Abuse
• Clergy Sexual Abuse
• Teacher Sexual Abuse

Our knowledge, compassion, experience and dedication will achieve the results you deserve.

We know sexual assault injury law. But that's just one reason to choose us to represent you. Equally important, is our compassion for people who have been hurt, and our determination to help them. Our support and perseverance will see you though what could be a trying time. We'll assert your rights aggressively and responsibly, ensuring the compensation you deserve.

What is sexual abuse?

There is no hierarchy when it comes to sexual abuse and sexual assault. Any unwanted sexual touch is sexual assault. In some cases, this can lead to physical injuries in addition to the emotional and psychological damage that it can cause. The abuse may happen over a long period of time or be limited to a single experience.

Telling someone else about what happened to you can be a very powerful moment for a survivor. Our sexual abuse lawyers often see them take back control of their lives by telling their story in their own words. This usually results in a mix of complex emotions like relief, sadness, anger, fear, or determination.

The differences between a criminal and civil sexual abuse or sexual assault case

A survivors' journey to healing is unique to them and their circumstances. They will choose what to do and when to do it based on what works for them. Others' opinions don't matter, what matters is what you feel is right for you.

A civil lawsuit is one option for a survivor of abuse. When considering whether this is the right choice, it is important to understand the differences between a criminal case and a civil lawsuit.

• Being found "not guilty" in a criminal case is not the same as being "innocent" of the alleged crime. A defendant can be found civilly liable even if they're found not guilty in a civil trial.
• In a civil case, the defendant can be forced to give testimony and be put under rigorous cross-examination, but in a criminal case the accused can choose not to undergo cross-examination.
• Most civil cases settle without a trial, either through negotiation or mediation.
• In a criminal case, the survivor is only treated as a witness to the crime. In a civil case, if the survivor is successful, they walk away with compensation to help them rebuild their lives. This compensation can pay for therapies and help provide for the survivor and their family. While money is not the main reason survivors begin lawsuits, it is a direct benefit to the survivor at the perpetrator's expense.

Many survivors tell us that launching a civil action in itself brings them a sense of control over their life that an abuser had taken from them. Most survivors need an outside symbol to feel that they have regained control over their healing journey.

We help survivors of sexual abuse or assault decide what course of action is best for them, based on their individual needs and preferences. We don't dictate what they should do; instead, we listen to what they want and help them make the best decision for themselves.

If you choose to pursue a civil suit, we will do our best to make the process as comfortable as possible for you, knowing that it can be incredibly difficult to talk about this abuse and answer questions from defence counsel.

Non judgmental, supportive sexual assault lawyers in Barrie

An important part of supporting survivors is developing trust-based relationships with them. However, this can be difficult for someone who has experienced abuse or trauma. Even if you can't fully trust us, we can work to help you feel comfortable enough to confide in us. We do this by listening without judgement, and taking the time to answer any questions you may have. We're on your side.

Contact us for a free, no obligation consultation

We believe that survivors should never be prevented from accessing justice due to a lack of funds. If we believe a lawsuit has potential to succeed, we take on the case on a contingency basis, meaning we front the costs and only receive payment if we win a settlement or damages in court.

If you or a loved one has experienced sexual assault or sexual abuse, even if it happened a long time ago, and you believe it contributed to mental health challenges and/or functional disabilities, please contact a sexual assault lawyer in Barrie to learn more about your rights and various options