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Sexual abuse is taken very seriously under Canadian law. This includes acts of rape, sexual assault, sexual exploitation, child molestation and internet luring, among others. In Surrey, a city in the province of British Columbia (BC), the law operates through both the Federal Criminal Code of Canada and the provincial Family Law Act to prosecute and prevent sexual abuse cases.
Seeking the assistance of a lawyer is crucial when dealing with matters of sexual abuse, especially when it involves severe trauma or exploitation. A lawyer can help you understand your rights, work to preserve the integrity of your case, conduct a thorough investigation, and ensure fair representation in court. If you are the victim, they can help you apply for protection orders and advise on potential avenues for compensation. Alternatively, if you are wrongly accused, lawyers can help navigate the complex legal processes to protect your rights.
Under Surrey's local laws, sexual abuse cases fall under the jurisdiction of the Criminal Code of Canada. Under Section 271, 272, and 273, sexual assault crimes of varying degrees including simple sexual assault, sexual assault with a weapon, and aggravated sexual assault are outlined with varying punishments depending on the severity of the act. BC's Family Law Act also provides protection order applications and emphasizes the safety and well-being of children in abuse situations.
In Canada, there is no statute of limitations for serious crimes such as sexual assault. Victims can report a crime at any time.
Under Canadian law, consent involves voluntary agreement to engage in sexual activity. It must be clear, continuous, and active throughout any sexual activity.
The age of consent in Canada is 16 years. However, there are exceptions for peer group relationships where the age differential is within 2-5 years depending on the specific circumstances.
Yes, you can apply for a protection order through BC's Family Law Act if you've been a victim of family violence, which includes sexual abuse.
There are several organizations offering counselling, legal aid, trauma support and more for victims of sexual assault. Emergency financial assistance may also be available for victims through the Crime Victim Assistance Program.
Several resources are available for victims of sexual abuse in Surrey, such as Surrey Women's Centre, The Canadian Centre for Child Protection, and VictimLink BC. Surrey RCMP also provides a range of information and resources for those affected by sexual abuse.
If you need legal assistance relating to sexual abuse, start by contacting a lawyer who specializes in sexual abuse cases. They can guide you on the best course of action based on your situation. You can also reach out to local organizations who provide support services for victims, they often understand the legal landscape and can provide useful suggestions.
