Best Sexual Abuse Lawyers in Melbourne

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Karlos Lawyers

Karlos Lawyers

Melbourne, Australia

Free Consultation: 1 hour


Founded in 2022
2 people in their team
Founded by Marin Karlos in 2022 and built upon the belief that when things go wrong, or when a person requires legal assistance, they deserve...
Arabic
Croatian
English
Maurice Blackburn Lawyers

Maurice Blackburn Lawyers

Melbourne, Australia

Founded in 1919
5,000 people in their team
About usMaurice Blackburn Lawyers is Australia’s leading plaintiff and social justice law firm. We have built a reputation on the unwavering belief...
English
Arnold Thomas & Becker

Arnold Thomas & Becker

Melbourne, Australia

Founded in 1972
200 people in their team
Our FirmOur law firm and what we stand forA personal injury legal firm you can trustAs a leading personal injury legal firm in Melbourne with over 50...
English

About Sexual Abuse Law in Melbourne, Australia

Sexual abuse involves any unwelcome or forced sexual behaviour, including unwanted touching, rape, exposing minors to explicit adult content, or using coercion to obtain sexual favours. In Melbourne, Australia, these offences are taken very seriously and are strictly punishable under the law. The Crimes Act 1958 encompasses the laws on sexual offences, and it aims at ensuring justice to the survivors and holding the culprits accountable.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

If you are a victim of sexual abuse, a lawyer experienced in Sexual Abuse law is your key ally for safeguarding your rights and pursuing justice. Sexual abuse entails a wide-ranging investigation and can involve complex legal codes. Lawyers provide you with advice, guide you through the process, establish the best legal strategies, represent you in court if necessary, and push for just compensation. Additionally, a lawyer can help maintain your privacy and confidentiality throughout the process.

Local Laws Overview

In Melbourne, the local laws related to sexual abuse are encompassed in the Crimes Act 1958, in which sexual crimes such as rape, sexual assault, exposure to explicit content and persistent sexual abuse of a child are all detailed. Reporting is an integral part of the process whereby law enforcement personnel and prosecutors can hold the abuser accountable, and is strongly encouraged. Note that there is no statute of limitations on reporting sexual abuse crimes in Victoria, providing victims the ability to report the crime irrespective of the time elapsed since the incident.

Frequently Asked Questions

What constitutes a sexual offence in Melbourne, Australia?

A sexual offence can be any kind of unwelcome or forced sexual activity, including assault, rape, lewd actions, or exposing a minor to adult content.

Does Melbourne have a statute of limitations on reporting sexual abuse crimes?

No, Melbourne does not have a statute of limitations on reporting sexual abuse crimes. This means a victim can report an incident regardless of how much time has passed since the abuse occurred.

What role can an attorney play in a sexual abuse case?

An attorney can provide legal advice, guide you through the investigative process, represent you in court if necessary, and advocate for fair compensation. They also provide support to maintain your privacy and confidentiality.

What happens after I report a case of sexual abuse?

After reporting, the matter will be investigated by law enforcement, which can result in the prosecution of the offender. Victims are also encouraged to take legal action to seek compensation for their suffering.

Can I be compensated for sexual abuse?

Yes. In Melbourne, victims of sexual abuse have the right to seek compensation for their physical and emotional trauma. The court can award damages to the victim to cover costs such as medical and counselling expenses, pain, suffering and loss of income.

Additional Resources

In addition to hiring an attorney, victims of sexual abuse can seek support from various governmental bodies and organizations like Victoria's Centre Against Sexual Assault (CASA), The Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, and The Australian Childhood Foundation.

Next Steps

If you are in need of legal assistance regarding sexual abuse, the first step is to reach out to law enforcement authorities and report the incident. You should also seek immediate medical attention after the incident. Engage a lawyer specialized in sexual abuse cases in Melbourne to guide you through legal proceedings, which includes filing a case, gathering evidence, and pursuing a claim for damages. Always remember to prioritize your physical and mental well-being during this process, seek counselling and support as needed.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or currentness of the content. Laws and regulations can change frequently, and interpretations of the law can vary. Therefore, you should consult with qualified legal professionals for specific advice tailored to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions you take or fail to take based on any content on this page. If you find any information to be incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will make efforts to rectify it.