As attorneys with experience handling sexual assault and violence cases, we too often see that the victims place blame on themselves for what happened. We want to send the message that how someone dresses, speaks, and walks are not the reasons they are attacked. Sexual violence is never the victim’s fault. They also have the right to hold their attacker accountable.
We believe so strongly in this message that we created a commercial with the help of WVNY-TV. We are honored to have the commercial earn the top award for Outstanding Television Commercial at the recent annual convention of the Vermont Association of Broadcasters. Commercials were graded for “creativity, production value, copyrighting, and ability to evoke a response.” The production features Attorney Dennis O. Shillen, who has dedicated his legal career to injury clients. The award plaque now hangs proudly in our lobby.
The ad can be viewed on our YouTube channel. Viewer discretion is advised due to the subject matter.
Justice for Sexual Assault Victims
There is no way to right the wrong of sexual assault, but the innocent target does have options that help bring some closure. Through the criminal justice system, we hope convicted attackers are given appropriate sentences. While a criminal sentence provides some needed justice, victims should also seek compensation through civil litigation.
At Shillen Mackall Seldon & Spicer Law Office, we serve the victims of violence in Vermont, New Hampshire, and Florida. With more than 80 years of collective experience, our attorneys’ extensive knowledge of victim rights and the legal system process can help recover financial compensation for economic and punitive damages.
Putting the culprit behind bars is deserved punishment, but that sentence does not help pay for associated medical bills, physical or emotional therapy, and other economic and non-economic costs.
Through a civil lawsuit, you may be able to recover these damages:
- Economic Damages. Examples of economic damages include hospital bills, medication costs, lost wages, property damage, counseling expenses, and other out-of-pocket expenditures.
- Noneconomic Damages. These damages cover emotional distress, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and other costs that cannot be verified with a receipt or bill.
- Punitive Damages. As the name suggests, these damages are meant to punish the attacker, not to compensate for a particular loss.
The amount that can be awarded varies from state to state. New Hampshire and Vermont don’t have punitive damages but do offer “enhanced compensatory damages.” In Florida, the state poses a punitive damage cap of $500,000 or three times the compensatory damages, whichever is greater.
Statutes of limitations also differ among states. These state laws set limits on how long after an injury that you may still file a lawsuit. The statute of limitations to file a civil action is three years in Vermont and New Hampshire, four years in Florida.
Hire a Strong Advocate
If you are the victim of sexual violence, you have the right to seek compensation in addition to the criminal penalties. Attacks harm physically and emotionally. They also affect your family, friends, and other loved ones. We will zealously fight for your rights and for fair compensation.
Our initial consultation is free. If we take your case, we don’t collect any fees unless we successfully recover for you. We are available to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
We are in your corner. Contact us today using our online formor by calling (802) 457-4848.