What to Consider When Picking a Lawyer to File a Sexual Assault Case

According to The Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network, or RAINN, approximately 433,000 cases of sexual assault among 12-year-olds and older in the United States happen every year. While the majority of sexual assault cases happen in victims’ homes, 29% of the incidents happen when a victim was traveling to and from work or school.

Sexual assault is ever-growing problem for teens and young adults nowadays. Sexual assault law firm, Merritt & Merritt Attorneys, says sexual assault comes in many forms. It could be an attack by a stranger, unwanted sexual behavior from a trusted friend, rape at the hands of a spouse or partner, sexual abuse, coercion by a superior or being forced into the commercial sex tape. 

If you’re one of the victims of sexual assault, there are numerous resources available to you and consulting with an attorney to pursue justice is one of the most logical steps you need to take. But, where do you begin your search for the right attorney? 

In this article, we will list down some of the important considerations when choosing a sexual assault lawyer.

Legal Expertise and Experience

When selecting a lawyer for a sexual assault case, prioritize legal expertise and experience. You need someone who knows the ins and outs of dealing with sensitive cases like these. Look for a lawyer who’s got a strong background in sexual assault law, specifically. This expertise will ensure that they understand the challenges surrounding these types of cases. 

According to sexual harassment attorney Sang Park, in rare cases, a company can also be held liable if a third party sexually harasses an employee. If the employer knew about the harassment and that they failed to take appropriate and immediate corrective action, they can be held liable. 

A lawyer who’s been involved in similar cases will be better equipped to represent you and provide the necessary support during this difficult time. They’ll have a deeper understanding of the emotional and psychological aspects involved, allowing them to approach your case with empathy and compassion.

Communication and Trust

To build a strong case and ensure effective representation, establishing open communication and trust with your lawyer is important. You need to feel comfortable discussing sensitive details with your lawyer, as this information is substantial for building a solid case. Your lawyer should keep you informed about the progress of your case, answer your questions promptly, and explain legal jargon in a way that you understand.

Trust is equally essential. You must have confidence in your lawyer’s abilities and feel assured that they’ve got your best interests at heart. Trust enables you to be open and honest, providing your lawyer with the necessary information to advocate effectively on your behalf. A trustworthy lawyer will prioritize your well-being and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Accessibility is another key factor to consider. You should feel comfortable reaching out to your lawyer with any questions or concerns that may arise during the case. Make sure the lawyer you choose is responsive to your communications and keeps you informed about the progress of your case. 

Clear lines of communication can help alleviate any anxiety or confusion you may experience throughout the legal process. 

Empathy and Sensitivity

Choosing a lawyer who demonstrates empathy and sensitivity towards your situation can greatly impact your experience and the outcome of your sexual assault case. It’s very important to feel understood and supported during such a challenging time. 

An empathetic lawyer will listen attentively to your story, validate your feelings, and show genuine care for your well-being. Sensitivity is also essential when dealing with the sensitive nature of sexual assault cases. A lawyer who’s sensitive to your emotions and experiences can help create a safe and supportive environment for you to discuss the details of the incident.

A compassionate lawyer won’t only advocate for your rights but also provide emotional support and guidance. By choosing a lawyer who prioritizes empathy and sensitivity, you can feel more more confident and empowered in dealing with a sexual assault case.

 Reputation and Track Record

Consider evaluating a lawyer’s reputation and track record before making your decision in a sexual assault case. A lawyer’s reputation for handling sexual assault cases can provide insight into their experience and success rate. 

Look for reviews, testimonials, or any public information that sheds light on their previous cases. A lawyer with a positive reputation for handling similar cases may instill more confidence in you during this challenging time.

Examining a lawyer’s track record can also give you an idea of their past achievements. Consider how many cases they’ve handled, what percentage resulted in successful outcomes, and if they have experience taking cases to trial. A lawyer with a strong track record of advocating for survivors of sexual assault and achieving favorable results may be better equipped to handle your case effectively.

Fee Structure and Accessibility

You also need to examine the lawyer’s fee structure and accessibility to ensure transparency and ease of communication throughout your sexual assault case. When choosing a lawyer for such a sensitive matter, it’s necessary to understand how they charge for their services. 

Inquire about their fee arrangements upfront and ensure there are no hidden costs or surprises down the line. A reputable lawyer should be willing to discuss their fees openly and provide you with a clear understanding of what to expect in terms of billing.

Conclusion

When choosing a lawyer to file a sexual assault case, it’s necessary to work with someone you trust and feel comfortable with. By taking the time to find the right lawyer for your case, you can guarantee that you have the best chance of achieving justice and holding the perpetrator accountable.