Speaking about sexual abuse can be incredibly difficult, particularly when what happened was many years or even decades ago.
There is no right or wrong time to talk about what happened to you.
At Browell Smith & Co Solicitors, our specialist abuse solicitors have supported survivors of historical sexual abuse for many years. We understand that contacting a solicitor can feel like a very big step.
We will listen to you. We will not judge you. And we will never expect you to tell us more than you feel able to at the outset.
Our aim is to provide a safe, confidential and supportive environment in which you can talk to an experienced solicitor, understand your options and decide what feels right for you.
Possibly, yes.
Many survivors of childhood sexual abuse do not feel able to speak about what happened until years, and sometimes decades, later.
There can be many reasons for this. You may have found it too painful to talk about, worried that you would not be believed, struggled to recognise what happened as abuse, or simply not felt ready.
The passage of time does not necessarily mean that you cannot seek legal advice or pursue a historical abuse compensation claim. There are legal time limits that need careful consideration, and different rules can apply depending on whether you are considering a civil compensation claim or an application to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA).
That is why it is important to take specialist advice about your individual circumstances rather than assuming it is too late. Other specialist firms similarly recognise that survivors may come forward many years after abuse took place and that historical claims require particular sensitivity around delay and limitation.
Sexual abuse can sadly occur in many different circumstances.
Our specialist solicitors can advise on historical sexual abuse and childhood abuse involving settings such as:
Depending upon the circumstances, it may be possible to pursue a claim against the person responsible for the abuse or an organisation that was legally responsible for them or failed in its responsibilities to protect you.
There may also be circumstances in which compensation can be sought through the CICA.
We can investigate the circumstances and explain which options may be available to you.
Please don’t let that stop you from speaking to us.
There are many reasons why someone may not have reported sexual abuse at the time.
In some cases, you may not have told anyone. In others, you may have tried to tell somebody but were not listened to or believed.
A historical sexual abuse claim needs to be considered on its own facts. Depending on the type of claim, evidence might include records from the police, social services, schools, local authorities or medical services, as well as witness evidence and medical or psychological evidence. Irwin Mitchell also identifies records from police, courts, schools, local authorities and medical institutions a potential sources of evidence in abuse claims.
Our job is to investigate the evidence for you. You do not need to arrive at your first appointment with a file of documents or all the answers.
We understand that no amount of compensation can change what happened.
For some survivors, however, bringing a claim can provide recognition of the harm they suffered and help provide financial security or access to appropriate treatment and support.
The effects of sexual abuse can be different for everyone. They may include psychological injury and difficulties with relationships, education or employment. Specialist abuse practices similarly recognise that historical abuse can have lasting effects on mental health and other areas of life.
Depending upon your circumstances, a claim may therefore consider:
Most importantly, your claim should be about you and the individual impact that the abuse has had on your life.
No.
We appreciate that speaking about historical sexual abuse is not the same as discussing an ordinary legal claim.
It can take enormous courage simply to make the first telephone call or send the first email.
You do not have to tell us everything in your first conversation.
Our experienced solicitors will take things at a pace that is appropriate for you. We will explain why we need particular information and what will happen next so that you are not left wondering what the legal process involves.
This reflects an important approach across specialist abuse practices: Switalskis emphasises listening without judgement and providing a confidential environment, while Irwin Mitchell offers an initial consultation in a confidential setting so that survivors can understand their options.
At Browell Smith & Co Solicitors, we have supported survivors of abuse for many years.
We understand how difficult these cases can be and how important it is that you feel listened to, respected and supported throughout the process.
Our specialist abuse solicitors are experienced, understanding and approachable. We know that every person’s experience is different, and our approach will always be guided by your individual circumstances.
You will be treated with dignity and compassion.
We will explain your options clearly and honestly, deal with difficult legal issues on your behalf and keep you informed throughout.
Where appropriate, we can also consider what treatment, rehabilitation or other professional support may assist you.
You will not have to navigate the process alone.
We may be able to deal with your historical sexual abuse compensation claim under a No Win No Fee agreement, depending upon the circumstances of your case.
We will discuss funding with you clearly at the outset and explain any potential deductions before you decide whether you wish to proceed.
Thinking about speaking to someone? We are here when you are ready.
If you experienced sexual abuse as a child or young person, however long ago it happened, you can speak to our specialist abuse solicitors in confidence.
Making contact does not commit you to bringing a claim.
It can simply be a conversation.
We can listen to what you feel able to tell us, explain whether a historical sexual abuse compensation claim may be possible and talk you through the options available.
If you then decide that you would like us to help, we will be beside you throughout the process.
At Browell Smith & Co Solicitors, we have supported survivors of abuse for many years. Your enquiry will be handled sensitively, confidentially and by an experienced team that understands just how difficult taking this first step can be.
When you feel ready to talk, we are here to listen.
This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. Time limits can apply to civil claims and CICA applications, so individual legal advice should be obtained.
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