A Lawyer for Victims of Sexual Abuse in Buffalo, NY, Explains: Steps To Take When a Loved One Has Been Sexually Assaulted

If you suspect (or know) a loved one has been sexually abused, you may not know what to say or do. In this post, an experienced lawyer for victims of sexual abuse in Buffalo, NY, discusses steps you can take to help your loved one through this challenging time.

How To Support a Loved One After Sexual Abuse

When you first learn someone has been sexually assaulted, your care and concern can make all the difference. Admitting to sexual abuse is difficult, so assure your loved one that they are not alone and that they can depend on you for support.

When they tell you what happened, believe them without judgment. Try not to ask “why” questions that tend to blame the victim (such as, “Why did you go to his house alone?”). They likely already blame themselves or wonder what they could have done differently. Instead, let them know that the assault was not their fault.  

What Not To Do After a Loved One Is Sexually Assaulted

Victim advocacy groups recommend avoiding the following when helping a loved one after sexual abuse:

• Don’t pry for details of the assault. Allow the survivor to tell you what they want on their own time.
• Don’t disagree with their choices. Your advice may make sense, but survivors need to follow their own path to recovery. 
• Don’t ask when they will recover.  Every lawyer for victims of sexual abuse in Buffalo, NY, knows that sexual assaults can leave a lasting impact. Survivors don’t need the additional pressure of feeling they’re not recovering quickly enough. 
• Don’t become too emotionally involved. Avoid assuming your loved one feels the same, imposing your feelings on them, or expecting them to help you deal with your emotional reaction.

Resources and Options After Sexual Abuse

Abuse survivors may suffer physical injury, mental health struggles, and relationship problems. The following resources may help.

Medical Resources

If the assault was recent, encourage your loved one to seek prompt medical attention (preferably within 24-36 hours). Abuse victims may sustain internal injuries, become pregnant, or contract an infection. Also, emergency medical providers can collect and preserve evidence, which may be useful if the survivor decides to hire a lawyer for victims of sexual abuse in Buffalo, NY.

Mental Health Resources

Encourage your loved one to seek help dealing with the abuse. They can make an appointment with a local therapist or contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-HOPE (4673). If you believe your loved one is suicidal, contact a local or national crisis hotline for help.

Legal Resources

Finally, there are several legal options after an assault. The survivor may want to make a police report so law enforcement can investigate potential criminal charges. In addition, a lawyer for victims of sexual abuse in Buffalo, NY, can help survivors file a civil case. Sexual assault litigation allows victims to seek financial compensation for emotional distress, counseling bills, lost wages, and more.  

Even if the assault happened a long time ago, a sexual abuse attorney may still be able to file a lawsuit. The NY Child Victims Act extended the timeline for childhood victims of sexual assault, giving them until age 55 to file a claim.

Contact a Lawyer for Victims of Sexual Abuse in Buffalo, NY

If your loved one needs legal representation after a sexual assault — or simply wants to explore their options — Cantor, Wolff, Nicastro & Hall LLC can help. We are dedicated to seeking justice for victims and protecting their rights under New York law. 

Call 716-848-8000 to schedule a free consultation with a compassionate lawyer for victims of sexual abuse in Buffalo, NY.