Victims of sexual abuse or sexual violence can sustain injuries and harm that has long-term consequences. In addition to the immediate trauma, physical injuries, and emotional distress, the sexual abuse could result in permanent impairments and ongoing mental anguish. The effects of sexual assault can interfere with numerous aspects of the survivor’s life.
Sexual assault is a crime under Minnesota criminal statutes. Criminal laws can punish an abuser with fines, jail, and other criminal penalties. Civil laws can hold the person financially liable for the damages the sexual abuse caused.
According to Minnesota intentional tort laws, a sexual assault survivor can seek compensation for damages from the person who assaulted them. They may also receive compensation from parties who contributed to the factors that led to the assault.
Sexual Assault Lawsuits in Minneapolis, MN
If you are the victim of sexual assault, you deserve to be compensated for the damages you sustained. Damages in a sexual assault case include economic and non-economic damages. In some situations, you may also receive punitive damages.
Calculating Economic Damages in Minnesota Sexual Abuse Lawsuits
Economic damages compensate you for your financial losses. The financial losses associated with a sexual abuse case may include, but are not limited to:
- Medical bills and expenses
- Counseling and therapy
- Lost wages and benefits
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Personal and/or nursing care
- Reductions in earning capacity
The value of economic damages depends on the severity of the injuries. Sexual abuse can cause catastrophic injuries. Past economic damages are equal to the actual dollar amount paid or lost because of the sexual abuse.
However, you may also receive future damages. If the sexual abuse impacts your ability to work, you may receive compensation for the loss of future income. You could also receive compensation for the ongoing expense of therapy and counseling.
Calculating Non-Economic Damages in Sexual Abuse Lawsuits in Minnesota
Non-economic damages for sexual abuse claims are more challenging to calculate. These damages compensate you for your pain and suffering. Examples of non-economic damages in a sexual abuse lawsuit include:
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Emotional distress
- Physical pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Mental anguish
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Impairments and disabilities
- Diminished quality of life
Your experience is unique to you. The circumstances of the sexual abuse and other factors contribute to your pain and suffering. It is important to note that these damages can be debilitating for some survivors. PTSD, permanent impairments, and other conditions could prevent a sexual abuse survivor from working and engaging in social functions.
Calculating the value of non-economic damages involves analyzing how the sexual abuse impacted your life. Factors attorneys use to determine the value of these damages include:
- Whether you are able to return to work
- The impact of the sexual abuse on your emotional state
- Whether you sustained scarring, disfigurement, or impairments
- Your ability to perform the tasks of daily living
- Whether the sexual abuse impacted your ability to have children
- The diagnosis of one or more psychological disorders that stem from the sexual abuse
- The impact the sexual abuse has on your relationships with others
Expert witnesses may testify about the effects of sexual abuse on a person’s emotional well-being. Friends and family members may also provide details about your emotional state and quality of life before and after the sexual assault.
An experienced Minneapolis sexual assault injury lawyer understands how to use the evidence in your case and build a compelling argument for maximum compensation for pain and suffering.
Punitive Damages in Sexual Abuse Lawsuits in Minnesota
Punitive damages are awarded in a small number of personal injury cases. These damages “punish” a person for specific types of conduct. Even though punitive damages do not compensate a victim for actual losses, the victim receives the amount.
Juries must believe the evidence shows that the defendant acted with a deliberate disregard for the safety and rights of others. Generally, intentional acts of violence through criminal behavior rise to the level of conduct to justify punitive damages.
What Should I Do if I Was Sexually Abused in Minnesota?
Seek immediate medical treatment and report the sexual abuse to the police. It is crucial to receive treatment for the abuse and seek support from healthcare providers.
You can also discuss filing a sexual assault lawsuit with a Minneapolis personal injury lawyer. The consultation is free of charge.
Contact our Minnesota Sexual Abuse Law Firm For Help Today
For more information, please contact an experienced Minneapolis sexual abuse lawyer at Hall Law Personal Injury Attorneys to schedule a free initial consultation today. We have three convenient locations in Minnesota, including Minneapolis, St. Cloud, and Edina.
We proudly serve Hennepin County, Stearns County, and its surrounding areas:
Hall Law Personal Injury Attorneys – Minneapolis Office
825 Nicollet Mall, Suite 615
Minneapolis, MN 55402
(800) 292-1979
Hall Law Personal Injury Attorneys – St. Cloud Office
1010 W St Germain St # 320
St Cloud, MN 56301
(320) 255-1000
Hall Law Personal Injury Attorneys – Edina Office
5200 Willson Rd #203
Edina, MN 55424
(952) 697-5560
