Sangamon County, located in central Illinois, is home to the state capital, Springfield, with over 195,000 residents. The Sangamon County Custody Services Division manages the county’s correctional facilities and ensures the safety and well-being of individuals in custody.
Unfortunately, incidents of sexual abuse can occur within these facilities, leaving victims traumatized and in need of legal assistance.
If you or a loved one suffered sexual abuse while in the custody of the Sangamon County Custody Services Division, you need to seek the help of a Sangamon County/Custody Services Division Sex Abuse Lawyer right away.
The experienced attorneys at Dolman Law Group are here for you and your family, and we promise to do all we can to hold the perpetrators accountable and increase your chances of getting the maximum compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.
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Table of Contents
- Defining Sex Abuse in Sangamon County Custody Services Division Facilities
- Legal Rights of Sex Abuse Victims in Custody
- How a Sangamon County Custody Services Division Sex Abuse Lawyer Can Help Victims
- Seeking Compensation for Sangamon County Custody Services Division Sex Abuse Victims
- How Long Do I Have to File a Civil Lawsuit Against Sex Abusers in Illinois?
- Choosing the Right Sex Abuse Lawyer for You
- Contact a Sangamon County/Custody Services Division Sexual Abuse Attorney Today
Defining Sex Abuse in Sangamon County Custody Services Division Facilities
Sex abuse is any unwanted sexual contact or activity that occurs without the victim’s consent.
In custody settings, sex abuse can take many forms, including:
- Sexual assault or rape
- Coerced sexual acts
- Inappropriate touching or groping
- Voyeurism or exhibitionism
- Sexual harassment or intimidation
Victims of sex abuse may experience a range of physical, emotional, and psychological symptoms.
These include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Feelings of shame or guilt
It is important to recognize that sex abuse is never the victim’s fault, and help is available.
Legal Rights of Sex Abuse Victims in Custody
Individuals in custody have constitutional rights that protect them from abuse, including sexual abuse. The Eighth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution prohibits cruel and unusual punishment, which encompasses sexual abuse by correctional staff or other inmates.
Additionally, Illinois has specific laws that protect individuals from sex abuse in custody, such as the Illinois Criminal Sexual Assault Law (720 ILCS 5/11-1.20) and the Illinois Custodial Sexual Misconduct Law (720 ILCS 5/11-9.2).
Victims of sex abuse in Sangamon County Custody Services Division facilities have the right to report the abuse to law enforcement, the Illinois Department of Corrections, or other appropriate authorities—including a sexual abuse attorney.
How a Sangamon County Custody Services Division Sex Abuse Lawyer Can Help Victims
A Sangamon County/Custody Services Division Sex Abuse Lawyer can provide invaluable assistance to victims seeking justice and compensation for the abuse they have endured.
An experienced attorney can:
- Provide legal advice and guidance throughout the process
- Investigate the abuse and gather evidence to support the victim’s claim
- Represent the victim in criminal proceedings against the abuser
- File a civil lawsuit on behalf of the victim to seek compensation for damages
- Advocate for the rights and interests of the victim at every stage of the legal process
A skilled sex abuse lawyer can help victims navigate the complex legal system while giving them a voice and protecting their rights.
Seeking Compensation for Sangamon County Custody Services Division Sex Abuse Victims
Victims of sex abuse in Sangamon County Custody Services Division facilities may receive compensation for the physical, emotional, and psychological damages they have suffered.
Damages available in a sex abuse case may include:
- Medical expenses related to the abuse
- Mental health treatment costs
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Lost wages or earning capacity
- Punitive damages (in some cases)
To prove liability in a sex abuse case, the victim’s attorney must demonstrate that the abuse occurred and that the responsible parties (such as the abuser or the correctional facility) failed to prevent or stop the abuse.
In some cases, parties may reach a settlement through negotiations. However, if the responsible party won’t offer a fair settlement, the victim’s attorney may pursue litigation to seek justice and compensation through the courts.
How Long Do I Have to File a Civil Lawsuit Against Sex Abusers in Illinois?
Illinois’s statute of limitations allows childhood sexual abuse victims 20 years after their 18th birthday to file a civil lawsuit, seeking damages. Victims also have 20 years from the date they discovered the injury resulting from sexual abuse to file suit.
Exceptions apply to cases involving persons over 18 when the abuse occurred as well as other factors. Additionally, claims against government entities may have far shorter deadlines.
You must speak with an experienced Sangamon County sex abuse attorney as soon as possible to learn of any deadlines that apply to your case to ensure your lawyer can file a claim or lawsuit for you within the applicable time frame.
Choosing the Right Sex Abuse Lawyer for You
When selecting sex abuse lawyer to represent you, choose an Illinois juvenile detention center sexual abuse attorney who has experience handling cases similar to yours and who demonstrates compassion and understanding for the trauma you have endured.
Some qualities to look for in a sex abuse lawyer include:
- Extensive experience in representing sex abuse victims
- A track record of success in securing compensation for clients
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Dedication to advocating for the rights of sex abuse victims
During an initial consultation, ask the attorney about their experience, approach to handling sex abuse cases, and any questions you have about the legal process. Many sex abuse lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only collect a fee if they secure compensation for you.
Contact a Sangamon County/Custody Services Division Sexual Abuse Attorney Today
You have already taken a brave and important step by considering legal action. We understand the courage it takes to come forward and speak out against abuse. Our team at the Dolman Law Group is here to support you throughout the process, providing the legal guidance and advocacy you need to pursue justice.
Contact one of our Sangamon County/Custody Services Division sexual abuse attorneys today at (312) 500-2901 for your free and confidential consultation. Together, we can hold the responsible parties accountable and work to obtain the financial recovery you and your family need to move forward from this traumatic event.