Sexual assault is a serious crime because it can leave the victim traumatized and depressed. Given that this problem can happen to anyone at any time, it is crucial to have insight into sexual assault lawyer Houston. It will help if you, your family, or even your friends are sexually assaulted.
Since this discussion is essential, ensure you stay informed by reading this entire article.
Who Is a Sexual Assault Lawyer?
The main duty of every lawyer is to defend clients so they obtain justice and their rights. However, each lawyer has a diverse range of case specializations.
A sexual assault attorney is a competent legal representative in defending sexual assault cases since obviously, they have an excellent understanding of the laws and regulations regarding these issues.
What is Sexual Assault?
In short, sexual assault is an action related to sexual activity regardless of the consent of the party who is the victim. Considering that this violates privacy and is against the law, perpetrators of sexual assault can be subject to criminal law. Sexual violence is immoral so it is not accepted in the social environment.
You can contact a sexual assault lawyer Houston if you experience or witness some of the following types of sexual assault. By contacting a lawyer, it will be easier to report the perpetrator in order to receive criminal sanctions.
Let’s take a closer view of what are actions categorized as sexual assaults below as cited by the Verywell Mind page!
- Touching in any form is undesirable.
- Unwanted or non-consensual sexual touching.
- Attempted rape.
- Forcing victims to perform sexual acts.
- Sodomy without consent.
- Sexual contact with minors.
- Unwelcome sexual penetration.
4 Necessary Steps If Someone Was Being Sexually Assaulted
The aftermath of sexual assault is sexual trauma, emotional trauma, and even psychological wounds. However, the victim can take the steps below to be able to stand up and get justice.
1. Ensure The Safety
In the first place before contacting a sexual assault lawyer in Houston, prioritize the safety and well-being of the victim. Generally, victims of sexual assault will feel overwhelmed, in shock, or even deterioration. The victim can call entrusted family or close ones to get protection and assistance and calm down.
Since assault victims can hurt themselves due to feeling worthless, providing a sense of security is crucial. Additionally, getting emotional support can also motivate the victim to get through this problem.
2. Reach Out to Professional Support
Sexual assault survivors usually take quite a long time to get through the harsh reality that befell them. The victim should seek professional support, such as a psychologist or the National Sexual Assault Hotline, to avoid remaining depressed and to handle the trauma.
A psychologist or the National Sexual Assault Hotline can help to listen to the victim’s story and provide appropriate treatment advice. Also, the complaints hotline will provide information on how to report sexual assault perpetrators.
3. Medical Examination
The next essential action that should not be missed is carrying out a medical examination. It is better for the victim to immediately undergo a medical examination before contacting a sexual assault lawyer in Houston so as not to lose valuable evidence.
Unfortunately, many assault victims do not immediately undergo a medical examination because they feel ashamed and depressed.
In cases of rape or sexual assault that cause physical injuries, medical officers will carry out a forensic examination. Blood samples, DNA, and other evidence can strengthen legal claims.
Assure to carry out a forensic examination within 72 hours after being assaulted to obtain valid evidence. Furthermore, encourage the victim not to shower, change clothes, comb their hair, or use the restroom until the examination is complete.
4. Contact an Attorney
After completing the three points mentioned above, it’s time to contact a sexual assault lawyer Houston. The victim needs the assistance of a lawyer to bring a sexual assault case to justice. Reporting an assailant is the right action because it can give the victim peace of mind.
The lawyer will combatively defend the victim. If the lawyer succeeds in winning the trial, it means the perpetrator will be sentenced to prison. Thus, sexual assault victims will not meet the assailant. As a result, imprisonment will deter the assailant and hopefully, he will not repeat his actions.
Guide to Getting the Best Sexual Assault Attorney
Deciding to take a sexual assault case to court is an excellent step. However, make sure you choose the best lawyer who is competent in defending the victim’s rights and the compensation you deserve. Let’s discover the criteria for the best lawyers below!
1. Extensive Experience
You can find sexual assault lawyers in Houston effortlessly because there are quite a lot of them. Ensure to choose a lawyer who is experienced and has extensive experience. Experienced lawyers surely have greater competence and insight.
Furthermore, they can also study cases faster and be able to find effective strategies to win the case. How do you know if a lawyer is experienced?
Don’t hesitate to ask how long they have been practicing law and whether they are certified. Also, pay attention to their communication skills because they have a full impact when negotiating.
2. Specific Background
In order to get a competent defense in the case you are filing, make sure you also know the background of the lawyer you appoint. Since you are going to file a sexual assault case, carefully choose a lawyer who has a specific background in defending the case.
Considerations in choosing a lawyer’s background include:
- How do they resolve a case similar to yours?
- How dedicated the firm is to criminal law?
- Which area do they practice specialists in?
3. Testimonials
The next best way to get a sexual assault lawyer is to read client testimonials. Read almost all the testimonials from clients who have used their services so you can find out the process of client satisfaction.
If the client satisfaction testimonial is more than 50%, it means the lawyer is worth considering. Besides that, you can also find out what awards they have received.
Does Sexual Assault Lawyer Houston Post Enlighten You?
To sum it up, sexual assault is an act that is not accepted in the social environment because it violates other people’s human rights. Never hesitate to contact a sexual assault lawyer in Houston if you experience or witness a sexual assault.
Considering that the perpetrator of sexual assault harms the victim physically, emotionally, and psychologically, the perpetrator should receive appropriate punishment for his immoral actions.