Assisting Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse in Nevada
The state of Nevada ranks among the highest in the nation in reported cases of child sexual abuse. According to Nevada Division of Child and Family Services, there are more than 12,000 reports of suspected abuse each year, of which more than 10% are substantiated. About half of the total reports each year occur in Clark County.
At the law firm of Hartley Hampton, P.C., we have represented the survivors of abuse for more than 30 years. We are devoted to helping these courageous individuals confront their abusers and obtain the financial compensation necessary for their injuries, both physical and emotional. In Las Vegas, Clark County and the state of Nevada, child sexual abuse is much too prevalent. By empowering victims against their abusers, we hope to bring long-awaited justice to survivors and prevent more instances of abuse in the future.
Sexual Abuse Cases in Nevada
Nevada's statute of limitations for civil actions arising out of childhood sexual abuse generally expires on the victim's 28th birthday. However, Nevada also has a "discovery rule" that allows suit to be filed within ten years after the victim discovered that his or her injury was caused by childhood sexual abuse.
Nevada permits punitive or exemplary damages to be assessed in civil cases involving the sexual abuse of a child. The plaintiff is required to prove "oppression" or "malice," which means that the defendant's conduct was "despicable" and that he acted with conscious disregard of the rights of the victim.
Where a hospital or other business has knowingly hired someone with a record of sexual assault, or where a religious institution has knowingly appointed a clergy member with a history of pedophilia, a jury can award punitive damages if they find that the defendant acted with conscious disregard of the rights of the victim.
Nevada does cap punitive damages at three times the amount of actual damages.
We Will Help Bring Abusers to Justice in Nevada
If you are a victim of abuse living in Nevada, attorney Hartley Hampton can help you file a legal claim in a discreet and responsible manner. Our firm is dedicated to empowering survivors by confronting abusers and those who protect them. Contact Hartley Hampton, P.C., for more information about our legal representation and how a lawyer can help you get compensation for your physical and emotional injuries.
