Sexual Abuse

Statistics show that one in three women and one in six men have been victims of sexual abuse. We recognize and understand the unique and significant challenges that survivors endure and the loneliness that comes with being a victim.

Sexual assault is not just rape, but single touch, staring, verbal come-ons, and persistence can be classified as sexual assault. Know your rights! Know how far is too far! Know what can be done about it!

Sexual Assault is defined as any assault of a sexual nature. In the Canadian criminal justice system, Sexual Assault charges are among the most serious an individual can face. If convicted, aside from jail time, a stigmatizing criminal record may follow the offender for life.

The imperative to protect complainants is among the highest priorities in Sexual Assault cases. Our criminal justice system has developed many special rules to ensure people who step forward with Sexual Assault allegations are safeguarded. For example, a complainants' past sexual history may only be introduced into evidence after a special hearing before a judge. Furthermore, the complainants' private records (whether medical or police) can only be accessed by the defense if the judge grants special permission to introduce them into evidence.

Our compassionate and experienced lawyers will guide you through a process aimed at healing, justice and any potential compensation. If you or someone you care about is a victim of sexual abuse, please contact us for a free, private, and confidential consultation of your rights.

At Verbanac, we understand how difficult it is to start your sexual assault claim. That’s why your first contact with us can be through a variety of means that make it easy for you. We often speak to you initially on the phone or have email exchanges before you actually need to meet with us, whether at our offices, in your home or a comfortable location for you. Before we begin any lawsuit, we will work with you to ensure that you understand the legal procedures and that we have all the information we need. We will file the paperwork that will start your sexual abuse lawsuit.

Contact Us for a confidential and private conversation about your circumstances, your rights and your legal options.

Facts about sexual assault lawsuits

• The number of large damages awards is rising, especially in cases of incest occurring over several years.
• In assessing general damages for pain and suffering, the courts consider: the nature of the acts, the duration of the assaults, the resulting harm, the survivor's age, and the impact on the survivor's life, including his or her education and career.
• General damages can range from a few thousand dollars for a single offense by a stranger to $250,000 or more for the most serious incest cases.
• Survivors can be awarded damages to cover the cost of past and future therapy, as well as damages for past and future income losses in some cases.
• The courts may also award substantial 'punitive damages' to punish the offender. They are less likely to do this if the abuser has been criminally convicted and punished.
• Other individuals may have claims against the abuser or responsible parties. For example, under the Family Law Act, the survivor's parents or other family members may have claims for loss of care, companionship and guidance due to the assault. Family members may be awarded some damages for the extra support they need to give the survivor.