Adult Sexual Abuse Cases

Adult survivors of sexual abuse can experience a lifetime of emotional, psychological, and/or physical consequences. The Department of Justice estimates that one in four women and one in six men have experienced a form of sexual abuse. Yet, only 28 percent (28%) of survivors report these crimes.

Sexual abuse is an umbrella term that encompasses a variety of inappropriate non-consensual acts. For instance, “sexual abuse” often refers in lay terms to an actual overt, physical behavior—such as inappropriate touching, a forced sexual act or penetration. The terms “sexual assault” or “sexual violence” may encompass the same violative conduct, but be labeled differently. After all, there is a level of ‘violence’ to each non-consensual sexual act.

Conversely, but still within the ambit of “sexual abuse”, is “sexual harassment.” While this abuse may not be physical in form, it is equal in effect. This abuse can range from sharing sexually inappropriate images or videos with others or making inappropriate sexual gestures to sending suggestive messages via notes, emails or social media posts.

The majority of adult survivors report knowing and trusting their abusers beforehand. This may be circumstance driven, in that they met at the workplace, an institutional facility, while hospitalized, and therapy/spa/fitness centers.

Studies show that adult survivors of sexual abuse are at an elevated risk of developing various conditions, including, but not limited to:

• Depression
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• An addiction to drugs and/or alcohol and
• Suicidal ideation

Surviving sexual abuse is something that one suffering should not have to face alone. Slater Slater Schulman LLP is dedicated to the nationwide confidential representation of those who have suffered from the traumatic consequences of sexual abuse.

If you or someone you love is a survivor of sexual abuse and wishes to file a claim, please contact Slater Slater Schulman LLP for a free consultation by filling out the form on this page or by calling our office at (800) 251-6990.