Sexual abuse that occurs within a family is especially damaging because it disrupts a child’s most important bonds and relationships. There are times when bringing a civil lawsuit against a family member is not possible, but in some cases, we can hold other negligent parties accountable.
These are complex cases, so it is best to discuss yours with an attorney to learn how we may be able to help you. At Soloff & Zervanos, P.C., we provide caring, experienced representation to victims of incest and sexual abuse. For over 25 years, we have helped child molestation and sexual abuse survivors recover compensation for physical and emotional injuries. Whether through a civil suit, victims’ compensation fund or other means, we fight for damages for medical care, counseling and lost wages.
Attorney Jeffrey Fritz is our lead attorney in these cases. Mr. Fritz is a charter member and past president of the National Crime Victim Bar Association, an affiliate of the National Center for Victims of Crime. He understands that every case is unique and requires different sensitivities while pursuing justice and compensation.
Please schedule a free consultation with one of our lawyers in Philadelphia, Allentown, Lancaster, Reading, Cherry Hill, New Jersey and New York at your convenience. Call us at 215-929-7216.
Are Babysitters Or Caretakers Liable?
In some cases, sexual abuse committed by a family member could have been prevented if another family member or person supervising the child had taken action. If a caretaker or babysitter allows sexual abuse to happen, we may be able to make a claim against that party for negligence.
Civil Suits In Cases Of Incest And Foster Care Sexual Abuse
When sexual abuse occurs while a child is in foster care, there may be additional liable parties. The government agency that operates the state’s foster care system may be negligent for failure to perform adequate background checks or failure to check on the child’s welfare. If abuse happened to you or your child, we can help you hold the New Jersey Department of Youth and Family Services or the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare liable.
When filing claims against the government, there is an additional notice requirement that is shorter than the statute of limitations for filing against a private individual or organization:
- In New Jersey, you must file a claim within 90 days of the child turning 18.
- In Pennsylvania, a notice must be filed within six months.
Whether sexual abuse occurs in a child’s home or a foster home, people who violate mandatory reporting requirements may be negligent. Mandatory reporters are individuals required by the state to report suspicions of child abuse to authorities.
- In Pennsylvania, mandatory reporters of abuse include school administrators, teachers, school nurses, social services workers, day care center workers, other child care or foster care workers, medical personnel, law enforcement and members of the clergy.
- In New Jersey, anyone with reason to suspect child abuse is mandated to report it.
Get The Best Sexual Abuse Lawyer You Can Find
To schedule a free consultation with one of our lawyers, please call Soloff & Zervanos, P.C., at 215-929-7216 or contact us online.