Sexual Abuse Lawsuits in Youngstown

In recent years, a significant number of sexual abuse incidents have been brought to light, offering survivors a pathway to the justice they are owed. With heightened scrutiny from both traditional media and social platforms, numerous cases involving high-profile individuals have emerged. In many of these heartbreaking situations, survivors remained silent because their abuser held a position of power or authority—such as clergy members, Boy Scout leaders, or prominent community figures.

At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, we have extensive experience handling sensitive sexual abuse cases. We recognize that the journey toward healing is difficult, which is why we approach every client with deep compassion and respect. Our goal is to ensure you or your loved ones receive the justice you deserve.

What Is Sexual Assault?

Sexual assault refers to incidents involving rape, attempted rape, or unwanted touching of a victim’s body over their clothing without consent. Across the United States, definitions of sexual assault are generally consistent: it is an act where the victim is pressured, coerced, or does not consent to sexual activity. Since 1993, marital rape has been recognized as a crime in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. If you are facing legal challenges, a Youngstown criminal lawyer can help guide you through the complexities of the law.

What Is Forcible Rape?

Forcible rape occurs when an aggressor uses physical force or threats to pressure a victim into a sexual act against their will. The statistics surrounding forcible rape are deeply unsettling:

• Approximately 20% of women report having experienced forcible rape at some point in their lives.
• 80% of forcible rape cases occur when the victim is under the age of 25, often during college years.
• Only about 20% of forcible rapes are ever reported to authorities.
• 2% of victims are men, and 30% of victims were raped during childhood.
• An arrest is made in only 25% of cases; frequently, the perpetrator is neither arrested nor prosecuted.
• In cases of forcible rape, the attacker is often someone known to the victim, such as a former lover, dating partner, or spouse.

If you are dealing with unrelated legal issues, such as traffic violations, consulting a Youngstown DUI attorney can provide clarity on your rights in Ohio.

Child Sexual Abuse

Tragically, reports of child sexual abuse are also increasing. In these situations, a child is often manipulated, coerced, or pressured into sexual acts by an adult or adolescent. These offenses can include:

• Forcible rape
• Using psychological pressure to obtain sexual gratification from a child
• Showing pornographic images to a child
• Viewing child pornography

Frequently, the abuser is someone in a position of authority whom the child trusts, such as parents, older siblings, relatives, priests, Boy Scout leaders, or camp counselors. The aftermath often leaves survivors struggling with lifelong issues like depression, PTSD, and anxiety. Seeking help from a Youngstown criminal lawyer is a crucial step toward holding offenders accountable in Mahoning County.

Victim’s Rights in Sexual Assault Cases

In Youngstown, Ohio, sexual assault survivors are entitled to specific rights under the law:

• Filing a civil lawsuit to seek compensation for lost wages, as well as physical and mental suffering.
• Pursuing a criminal lawsuit, depending on the severity and facts of the case.
• Seeking permanent changes in workplace policies to prevent future incidents, including the termination of the perpetrator.
• Filing a formal complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or the appropriate state agency.

Connect With a Youngstown Sexual Assault Lawyer

If you are located in Youngstown or Mahoning County and need legal assistance, turn to Youngstown Criminal Law Group. We are here to listen diligently to your story and fight for the justice you are entitled to. Whether you need assistance with a sensitive abuse case or need a Youngstown DUI attorney for other matters, we are here to help. For a confidential consultation, call us now at 412.387.6901.