In our previous post, we began a discussion about the long and difficult aftermath often experienced by victims of violent crime. A recent news story noted that in the case of particularly horrific crimes, even the jurors in criminal cases can be left with emotional scars and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.
If jurors can be so deeply affected, it is difficult to imagine how much worse the pain is for victims and their families. Because of the long and difficult aftermath associated with these violent crimes, criminal justice may not be enough. Victims may wish to seek financial restitution in a separate civil lawsuit.
Many people may not know that a civil lawsuit is an option. While it cannot repair the damage that was done, a civil lawsuit can help victims and their families offset the considerable costs they will likely incur as they work to heal. These costs can include:
To revisit the example we used earlier, jurors usually cannot pursue compensation for the trauma associated with serving on a jury and learning the horrific details of a crime. But victims often can pursue compensation. This may be true even if there is no criminal trial.
The attorneys at Soloff & Zervanos, P.C. are proud to be advocates for victims of crime, including violent crime and sexual abuse. We work to help victims pursue compensation, healing and closure. We also make it our mission to protect our clients’ anonymity (when requested) as well as their dignity.
If you’d like to learn more about our services, feel free to visit the crime victim representation page on our website.