Child Sexual Abuse

What is Sexual Abuse?

Sexual abuse refers to any non-consensual sexual act, which may include rape or sexual contact with another individual, either clothed or unclothed, against their will. Legal definitions of sexual assault differ across states in the United States, including Mercer. Sexual assault typically happens when one person involved in a sexual act does not provide consent, is coerced, incapacitated, or is a minor.

It is vital to understand that consent must be explicit and can be revoked at any time during the interaction. Since 1993, all 50 states in the United States, including the District of Columbia, have classified marital rape as a criminal offense. While sexual assault victims are often women and minors, it is crucial to recognize that men can also be victims of this crime. If you or someone you know has endured non-consensual sexual assault, seeking advice from an experienced criminal lawyer can provide critical support during this trying time.

Forcible Rape

Forcible rape involves situations where the victim is compelled into sexual acts through physical coercion.

• Approximately 20% of women experience forcible rape during their lives.
• Over 80% of these victims are 25 years old or younger when the crime occurs.
• Only about 20% of forcible rape incidents are reported to the authorities.
• The perpetrator is often someone the victim knows, such as a dating partner, ex-lover, current partner, spouse, or even a casual acquaintance.

If you or someone you care about has experienced this kind of trauma, working with a Mercer DUI attorney can connect you with legal support and resources to help seek justice.

Child Sexual Abuse

Child sexual abuse occurs when a minor is pressured, forced, or manipulated by an adolescent or adult for sexual gratification or acts. This category of abuse includes several forms, such as:

• Forcible rape
• Psychological coercion or pressure on a child to engage in sexual acts
• Indecent exposure directed toward a child
• Showing pornographic images to a minor
• Participating in or creating explicit material involving children, often referred to as child pornography

These crimes often leave a lasting emotional and psychological impact, including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and severe anxiety disorders. Alarmingly, many instances of child sexual abuse involve perpetrators from within the victim’s family or close social circles. Tragically, abuse also commonly occurs within trusted organizations, such as religious or civic groups, involving authority figures like camp counselors, Boy Scout leaders, or clergy members.

Our Mercer criminal lawyer recently assisted in seeking justice for 525 men who suffered abuse during their time in the Boy Scouts. This overwhelming number highlights the critical need for continued efforts to protect minors.

Groping

Groping refers to non-consensual touching or fondling of another person’s body parts, either through or under their clothing. This behavior causes significant emotional distress and mental anguish for its victims.

• Female victims often endure groping of their breasts, genitals, buttocks, and thighs.
• Male victims frequently experience unwanted touching of their penis, testicles, or buttocks.
• Offenders may also press or rub their bodies against the victim during the assault.

Working with a Mercer criminal lawyer can help victims of groping explore legal options and seek the justice they deserve.

Logue Law Group

At Logue Law Group, our compassionate Mercer DUI attorney will listen to your experiences with care and understanding. We are dedicated to helping you heal and providing an unwavering commitment to fighting for justice on your behalf. We understand the overwhelming effect such experiences can have, and our goal is to support you as you work toward closure and resolution.

Take the first step in reclaiming your life by contacting us (844) 748-8384 today. Our team in Mercer County is here to stand by your side and advocate for your rights.