Surviving sexual abuse is one of the hardest experiences a person can face. Healing takes time, support, and acknowledgment of the harm that was done. A Columbia sexual abuse lawyer from John Foy & Associates can stand with you as you take steps toward justice.
For more than 20 years, our firm has helped survivors of serious harm. Together, our lawyers have over 350 years of experience and have recovered more than $1 billion for clients. We treat every client with care and compassion. You never pay us unless we win, so you can focus on healing while we handle the legal work
When you contact our team, a Columbia personal injury lawyer will listen to your story, explain your options, and help you decide the best way forward. Call us today for a free consultation to review your legal options in a confidential setting.
What Is Sexual Abuse?
Sexual abuse happens when someone violates another person’s body, trust, or safety through unwanted contact or behavior. It is never the survivor’s fault. Abuse can happen in many ways, such as:
- An authority figure taking advantage of their position.
- An adult touching a child in a harmful or inappropriate way.
- Someone forcing or pressuring another person into sexual acts.
- A caregiver or professional crossing personal boundaries.
Sexual abuse is about power and control. It can happen in families, schools, churches, sports programs, workplaces, medical offices, or detention centers. Survivors may feel fear, guilt, shame, or confusion, but none of these feelings erase the fact that the abuse is wrong.
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We Help Survivors of Abuse in Schools, Churches, and More
Every survivor’s story is unique. Abuse can take place in many environments, and each setting has its own challenges. Our sexual abuse lawyers in Columbia will take on powerful institutions and individuals who allow harm to happen.
- Columbia clergy sexual abuse lawyer: Our attorneys hold churches and religious groups accountable when clergy members misuse their position to betray trust and faith.
- Columbia doctor sexual abuse lawyer: Our team protects patients by taking legal action against medical professionals who cross boundaries during care and cause harm.
- Columbia juvenile detention center sexual abuse lawyer: We stand up for minors who suffer abuse in facilities that are supposed to protect and guide them toward a better future.
- Columbia school sexual abuse lawyer: Our lawyers represent children and teens who were abused by teachers, coaches, or staff members in public and private schools.
- Columbia therapist sexual abuse lawyer: We hold counselors and mental health providers responsible when they misuse their power and harm the people they are meant to help.
- Columbia youth sports sexual abuse lawyer: Our attorneys defend young athletes who coaches, trainers, or staff have abused in sports programs that should have been safe.
No matter where the abuse happened, our goal is the same: to help you be heard, to push those at fault to face accountability, and to pursue damages that can support your healing. We will explain your next steps during a free, private consultation. Call us today.
Our Sexual Abuse Attorney in Columbia Will Handle Your Case
Taking legal action is not easy, but it can be part of the healing journey. A lawyer from our experienced team can help by:
- Collecting evidence such as records, reports, or witness statements
- Identifying all parties that may be responsible, both individuals and institutions
- Filing claims for damages, such as medical costs, therapy, lost income, and pain and suffering
- Standing up against powerful organizations that may try to avoid responsibility
- Providing compassionate, steady guidance at every step
These cases can involve civil and criminal law. Criminal cases aim to punish the abuser. Civil cases focus on damages to help survivors recover from the harm done.
Who Can Pursue Damages for Sexual Abuse in Columbia, S.C.?
Those who may have the right to take legal action include:
- Adults who suffered sexual abuse as children
- Minors harmed in schools, sports, or other youth programs
- Patients mistreated by doctors, therapists, or other professionals
- Families of survivors who are not able to file on their own
Damages can include medical bills, counseling costs, lost income, emotional distress, and in some cases, punitive damages meant to hold wrongdoers fully accountable.
Common Feelings Survivors May Have
Many survivors feel unsure about speaking up. You may be asking yourself:
- “Will people believe me?”
- “Do I have the strength to relive this?”
- “What if the abuser is powerful or well-known?”
These feelings are normal. Our role as your lawyer is to stand beside you so you are not alone. You set the pace and decide what to share.
Our sexual abuse attorneys in Columbia will make sure others hear and respect your story.
What Are the Filing Deadlines for Sexual Abuse Cases in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, the law sets strict time limits for filing sexual abuse lawsuits under S.C. Code Ann. § 15-3-530. Most survivors have only a few years to act. Children often have more time once they reach adulthood.
Because every case is different, it is important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible to find out what deadlines apply to your situation. The filing deadlines for sexual abuse cases can vary, and this overview is not legal advice. Please consult a lawyer about your specific rights.
What to Do If You Have Experienced Sexual Abuse
If you or someone you love has suffered sexual abuse, you may feel unsure about what steps to take. Here are some things you can do now:
- Get to a safe place: Your safety and well-being are most important.
- Seek medical attention: A doctor can help with your physical and emotional care.
- Reach out for support: Talk to someone you trust, whether a counselor, friend, or support group.
- Report the abuse if you feel ready: You have the right to report to the police, your workplace, or an institution.
- Contact us for help from a sex abuse attorney in Columbia: We will guide you through your legal options and protect your rights.
FAQs About Sexual Abuse Cases
Before reaching out, you may have questions. Here are a few common ones.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Lawyer?
At John Foy & Associates, you pay our team nothing up front to handle your case. We work on contingency, which means we get paid only if we win your case.
Will I Have to Go to Court?
Not always. Many parties settle cases privately. However, if going to trial is the best option, we are ready to fight for you.
Can I Stay Anonymous?
In some cases, yes. Courts often allow survivors of sexual abuse to keep their names private to protect their privacy.
What Local Resources Can Help Columbia Survivors of Abuse?
Survivors can also reach out to trusted local resources for immediate help. The South Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (SCCADVASA) and Pathways to Healing (formerly Sexual Trauma Services of the Midlands) provide confidential support, counseling, and crisis response services for people who have experienced abuse.
Our Sexual Abuse Lawyers in Columbia Are Ready to Help You
If you or someone close to you has experienced sexual abuse, you are not alone in this journey. A Columbia sexual abuse lawyer from John Foy & Associates will stand by your side to hold those responsible accountable.
We will listen to your story, guide you through your legal choices, and work to support your healing while seeking justice. Together, we will seek accountability while standing up for you and making sure others hear your voice.
Call us for a free consultation.
(404) 400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
