Athens Sexual Assault Lawyer

Sexual assault is a terrible experience that affects victims for the rest of their lives. There are often physical, mental and emotional scars that accompany such a horrible event. Sexual assault is not only a crime, it is a violation of your rights.

If you are the victim of sexual assault, it is important to learn more about your legal rights and the options you may have to hold the responsible party accountable. If you have suffered sexual assault, rape, or statutory rape, contact The Dixon Firm, P.C. Let our sexual assault lawyer in Athens help you get the justice you deserve.

What is Sexual Assault?

Each year, more than 321,000 people are sexually assaulted. That equates to around 880 people each day. No matter how you look at it, those statistics are alarming. It is a shame sexual assaults occur, especially at such a devastating pace.

What many people fail to realize is that sexual assault is more than just physical contact. Legally, sexual assault includes any of the following:

• Any unwanted sexual contact, including touching, fondling, or language
• Unwanted sexual contact including penetration or oral sex
• Exposing children to sexually explicit images or pornography
• Revealing oneself to someone else
• Taking inappropriate photos of a child for distribution or personal use

These are some of the general guidelines for what constitutes sexual assault. Every state has different laws.

Sexual Assault Laws in Georgia

In Gerogia, sexual assault laws are broken down into two categories. These are:

Sexual Assault – Sexual assault specifically relates to sexual contact between a minor and someone who has disciplinary or supervisory authority over them. This includes:

• A teacher, administrator, principal, or other school staff member;
• A parole or probation officer;
• A healthcare provider who has sexual contact with a patient during treatment;
• An employee of a law enforcement or correctional agency who has authority;
• A psychotherapist engaging in sexual contact with a patient.

Under Georgia law, sexual contact includes any sexual contact between two unmarried individuals.

Sexual Battery – Sexual battery specifically relates to physical contact with the “intimate parts” of another person without consent. Under state law, intimate parts include:

• Primary genital area
• Groin
• Anus
• Inner thighs
• Buttocks
• Breasts

There are enhanced penalties for sexual battery that involves a foreign object or victims under 16 years old.

Injuries Related to Sexual Assault

Because sexual assault includes so many different circumstances, there are many different types of injury that can occur. Some of the injuries most commonly associated with sexual assault claims include:

• Abrasions
• Lacerations
• Ligature Burns or Bruises
• Unwanted Pregnancy
• Sexually-Transmitted Diseases
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Depression
• Anxiety

Sexual Assault Lawsuits in Georgia

If you have been sexually assaulted, you may have grounds to file a lawsuit against the person or business responsible for your injuries and losses. A civil lawsuit is separate from any criminal charges that arise from your case. Georgia law is strict against sexual offenders, but that doesn’t always mean that the victim is compensated for what they have experienced and lost.

In Georgia, you can file a lawsuit against the perpetrator, but also against certain third parties who may he held liable for what you have suffered. Third parties that can be sued in sexual assault cases include property owners who failed to properly secure the premises, or a security company that failed to meet their duty of care to those on the property.

The best way to determine if you have an actionable legal claim is to contact a sexual assault lawyer in Athens. At The Dixon Firm, P.C., we can help you determine if you have a case. If so, you may be able to pursue compensation for your medical expenses, psychological damage, loss of personal property, loss of income, and punitive damages.

Choose a Sexual Assault Lawyer in Athens You Can Trust

At The Dixon Firm, P.C., our goal is to protect our clients. When you work with us, you can trust that your legal rights and best interests are our top priority. We understand that this is a delicate matter, and you are experiencing many emotions. We will work with you every step of the way so you can be confident in your pursuit of justice.

Whether you are considering a lawsuit against a perpetrator or a third party, we have the skills it takes to build a strong case and get results. To speak with our sexual assault lawyer in Athens, call The Dixon Firm, P.C. at 404-733-1166.