Denver Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Denver Personal Injury Lawyers » Denver Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Sexual abuse is a deeply traumatic experience that leaves survivors with profound and lasting emotional wounds. The ripple effects often extend beyond the survivor, impacting their loved ones and support systems as well.

If you or someone close to you has experienced sexual abuse—whether at work, school, a clinic, a religious or civic organization, or another institution— please know that you are not alone in this journey. A Denver sexual abuse lawyer with Fuicelli & Lee Injury Lawyers is here to provide support, guidance, and advocacy during this incredibly difficult time.

While nothing can completely erase the trauma you’ve endured, having a compassionate ally in your corner is a big step forward. We will fight tirelessly for the justice and compensation you deserve so that you spend your time and energy healing and moving ahead. 

We can also connect you to valuable resources that can further help you recover and reclaim your life. When you come to us with a sexual abuse claim, your fight becomes our fight. 

What Constitutes Sexual Abuse?

Sexual abuse encompasses a wide range of unwanted sexual activities, including:

• Unwanted groping, grabbing, or sexual contact
• Sexual assault and rape
• Sexual exploitation of vulnerable individuals
• Exposure to sexual acts without consent
• Online sexual abuse and exploitation

Every form of sexual abuse can leave survivors grappling with immense physical, emotional, and psychological challenges. At Fuicelli & Lee, we recognize the incredible strength it takes to speak out and seek help. We understand that many survivors carry feelings of shame, even though they are not at fault for what happened to them.

You deserve to share your story in a space free from judgment, where your pain is met with empathy and your needs are prioritized. Our legal team is committed to helping survivors of sexual abuse navigate this sensitive and often overwhelming process. We are here to stand beside you, providing not only legal expertise but also unwavering support as you move forward.

The Prevalence of Sexual Abuse in the U.S.

Sexual abuse is alarmingly widespread and common in the U.S.  

The National Sexual Violence Resource Center reports that 81% of women and 43% of men have experienced some form of sexual harassment and/or assault in their lifetime in the U.S. One in five women have experienced completed or attempted rape in their lifetime, while one in six men have been sexually abused or assaulted during at some point in their life. 

Statistics like these aren’t surprising in light of the global sex scandals that have come to light in recent years, including Jeffrey Epstein, Harvey Weinstein, and R. Kelly, to name a few, all of whom sexually abused women for several years without consequence. Most recently, Sean “Diddy” Combs faces federal charges for a range of sexual offenses against women spanning 16 years, including sex trafficking. 

If someone sexually abused you or a loved one in some way, Fuicelli & Lee can help. We have the skills, resources, and fearlessness to stand up to the most powerful individuals and institutions in the world to get you the justice and compensation you deserve. 

The Importance of Taking Legal Action

Seeking monetary compensation is fundamental to your recovery, but taking legal action in cases of sexual abuse serves many other important purposes.

Here’s a look at some of the reasons pursuing legal action helps you and potentially many others. 

• Seeking Compensation: While no amount of money can undo the harm caused, compensation can help cover the physical, emotional, and financial toll of abuse. This includes medical expenses, therapy costs, lost wages, and compensation for pain and suffering.
• Holding Perpetrators Accountable: Legal action sends a powerful message that society will not tolerate or ignore these crimes. It holds not only individual perpetrators accountable but also any institutions that may have enabled the abuse or covered it up.
• Preventing Future Abuse: Litigation can prevent future abuse by exposing systemic failures and demanding change. They can also lead to policy changes, increased awareness, and better protection for vulnerable individuals.
• Empowering Survivors: The legal process can allow survivors to reclaim their voice and sense of control. It provides a platform to speak out against the abuse and be heard.

Our Team of Sexual Assault Attorneys is Ready to Help You 

Our team of experienced sexual assault attorneys is committed to helping sexual abuse survivors in Denver and throughout Colorado navigate challenging sexual abuse cases.

Fuicelli & Lee Partner Krislene Lorenz has devoted much of her career to helping victims of sexual abuse, both as a prosecutor and now in civil litigation. Her experience includes trying more than 100 cases in front of a jury, helping many child victims of sexual abuse, sexual assault, and other violence pursue justice against their perpetrators. 

Krislene brings her profound understanding of these sensitive cases to help survivors hold institutions accountable and obtain the compensation they deserve. Her combination of extensive courtroom experience and ability to connect with her clients makes her a powerful advocate for those who have been hurt by the actions of others.

Matthew Durkin has dedicated his legal career to advocating for victims of child sexual abuse, physical abuse, homicide, and other serious crimes. He first championed victims in criminal court, spending several years leading the Criminal Justice Section of the Colorado Attorney General’s Office as Deputy Attorney General and, more recently, as Jefferson County Chief Deputy District Attorney.

Now an experienced civil litigator, Matthew has expanded his focus to include helping victims in cases of bad faith insurance claims, wrongful death, and catastrophic injuries caused by negligence. His pursuit of justice has led him to make multiple appearances on national television, including NBC’s Dateline and CBS’s 48 Hours. 

Lori Tolle is an exceptional trial attorney whose dedication to seeking justice for children began during her decade-long tenure as a deputy district attorney in Jefferson County. There, she fought tirelessly for victims of sexual abuse, physical violence, and homicide, honing her courtroom skills and achieving numerous successful verdicts. In the DA’s Crimes Against Children unit, she excelled in tackling complex cases, including cases of abuse involving severe head and brain trauma.

Now a personal injury attorney with Fuicelli & Lee, Lori channels that same tenacity and passion into civil litigation, securing millions in verdicts and settlements that consistently exceed client expectations. True to her goal of providing “every tool, resource, and opportunity” for her clients, she empowers survivors to move forward and reclaim their futures.  

Places Where Most Sexual Abuse Occurs

Sexual abuse can occur anywhere, but tragically it often occurs in places where people should feel safe, including:

• Schools and educational institutions
• Religious organizations
• Medical facilities
• Youth organizations and camps
• Workplaces
• Nursing homes and care facilities
• Spas and salons

Different legal considerations may apply in each of these settings. For example, cases involving schools or youth organizations may involve negligence claims against the institution for failing to protect children.

Workplace sexual abuse cases might include additional criminal charges and civil claims for hostile work environments or employer negligence.

If you’ve experienced abuse in any of these settings or elsewhere, our Denver sexual abuse lawyers are here to listen and help you explore your legal options. We have the knowledge and experience to navigate the complexities of these cases, regardless of where the abuse occurred.

The Toll Sexual Abuse Takes on Survivors

Sexual abuse can have far-reaching consequences on a survivor’s life, including:

• Emotional trauma and psychological distress
• Physical injuries and health complications
• Difficulty maintaining relationships
• Challenges in work or education
• Financial burdens from medical treatment and therapy

Emotional and Psychological Effects of Sexual Abuse

For many survivors of sex crimes, the emotional toll can be severe and last for years or even a lifetime.

Many sexual assault survivors experience:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Depression and anxiety
• Low self-esteem and self-worth
• Trust issues
• Anger and irritability
• Sleep disturbances and nightmares

These psychological effects can significantly impact a survivor’s quality of life, affecting their ability to form or keep relationships, maintain employment, or enjoy everyday activities.

The Physical Toll of Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse can also lead to various physical health issues, both immediate and long-term:

• Injuries from the abuse itself
• Sexually transmitted infections
• Chronic pain
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Gynecological problems
• Substance abuse as a coping mechanism

Financial Impacts of Sexual Abuse

The financial burden of sexual abuse can be substantial.

Survivors may face costs related to:

• Medical treatment for physical injuries
• Long-term therapy and counseling
• Lost wages due to inability to work
• Costs associated with changing living situations for safety
• Substance abuse treatment

At Fuicelli & Lee, we recognize the deep and long-lasting impacts sexual abuse can have on every aspect of your life. Our team is committed to helping you seek the compensation and support you need to heal and move forward. 

We work closely with you and your medical providers to assess your physical, emotional, and financial damages, making sure every form of harm you’ve suffered is included in your legal claim. 

Legal Options for Denver Sexual Abuse Survivors

Pursuing justice for sexual abuse takes place on two fronts: criminal and civil. At Fuicelli & Lee, we understand that navigating these options can feel overwhelming. Our role is to guide you through this complex legal landscape, helping you make the best decisions for your healing journey.

Many of our personal injury lawyers are former prosecutors with years of trial experience. We thoroughly understand criminal and civil law, how the courts operate, and what we need to do to get you the best possible outcome. 

Criminal Cases: Seeking Justice Through the State

When you report sexual abuse to law enforcement, you initiate a criminal case. The state takes charge, investigating the abuse and potentially filing charges against your abuser.

If convicted, the perpetrator may face jail time, fines, or mandated treatment. While this process can provide you with a sense of justice, a criminal conviction aims to punish the abuser rather than support you, the survivor.

When an individual such as a family member, friend, or anyone else sexually abuses someone, the victim can and should press criminal charges against the perpetrator. However, not all perpetrators can pay significant compensation for their victims’ injuries and losses.

While Fuicelli & Lee cannot recover financial damages in all cases, we have a wide network of services and support for sexual abuse survivors. Regardless of your case’s outcome, and even if we cannot represent you in a sex abuse claim, we will do our best to refer you to top professionals to help with your mental and emotional recovery. We promise to help you heal as completely as possible.

Civil Lawsuits: Empowering Survivors

Civil lawsuits provide another path to justice, putting you in control of the legal process. 

You initiate a sexual abuse lawsuit with the help of an experienced sexual abuse lawyer to pursue compensation for the harm you’ve suffered. Damages may include medical bills, therapy costs, lost wages, and compensation for pain and suffering. Civil cases aren’t just about the abuser – you can also hold accountable any institutions that may have enabled or hidden the abuse.

The burden of proof is lower in civil cases than in criminal cases. You need to show a preponderance of evidence, meaning it’s more likely than not that the abuse occurred. 

While no amount of money can erase what happened, fair compensation can provide crucial support for your recovery. It’s also a powerful way to hold responsible parties accountable and potentially prevent future abuse.

If you or a family member have been sexually abused in an institutional environment, call Fuicelli & Lee today to explore your legal options.

Compensation for Sexual Abuse Survivors in Denver

When you’ve survived sexual abuse in Denver, no amount of money can erase the past. However, pursuing a civil lawsuit can provide a lifeline for you while holding the abuser accountable. Our sexual abuse lawyers fight to secure the full range of damages you deserve and not a dollar less.

We will work closely with you to  account for all your damages, including:

• Medical Expenses: Covering tests, treatments, surgeries, medications, and ongoing care related to the abuse.
• Therapy and Counseling Costs: Ensuring you have access to the psychological support needed to heal.
• Lost Wages: Recovering income lost due to the abuse and its aftermath.
• Diminished Earning Capacity: Addressing potential long-term impact on your ability to work.
• Pain and Suffering: Acknowledging the physical and emotional distress you’ve endured, which can be as traumatic and debilitating as physical injuries.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensating for the impact on your quality of life and relationships.

In cases of extreme misconduct, we may also seek punitive damages. These damages not only provide additional compensation but can act as a powerful deterrent to individuals and institutions alike who may think they can act with impunity.

Making Your Decision

Fuicelli & Lee’s sexual abuse lawyers know that taking legal action is a deeply personal decision. We are here to listen to your case without judgment in a private and comfortable environment. We’ll discuss your options, stand by your side, and fight tirelessly to ensure you receive the full, fair, and complete compensation you deserve.

Pursuing justice isn’t just about the outcome – it’s about reclaiming your power and equipping yourself with the resources that can help you heal. 

Why Choose Fuicelli & Lee for Your Sexual Abuse Case

When you’re dealing with the aftermath of sexual abuse, choosing the right legal representation is crucial. Here’s why Fuicelli & Lee stands out:

Experienced Trial Lawyers

Our personal injury lawyers have extensive trial experience. We’re not afraid to take your case to court if that’s what we need to do to secure justice. Many of us are former prosecutors with a background that gives us insights into how successful cases are built and prosecuted. We use this experience to strengthen your civil case.

Proven Record of Success

Fuicelli & Lee Partner Krislene Lorenz has a history of helping sexual abuse victims and others suffering from devastating personal injuries. Her 20 years of complex litigation experience includes homicide and felony-level sexual and physical abuse crimes committed against children. While each sexual abuse case is unique, Krislene’s dedication to pursuing justice with grit, determination, and compassionate client care remains constant. 

Compassionate Approach

We understand the sensitivity of sexual abuse cases. Our team provides empathetic, non-judgmental support throughout the legal process. We create a safe, supportive environment for you to share your story and decide how you want to move forward.

Focused on Complex Cases

We don’t shy away from challenging and complex cases that other law firms might refuse. Sexual abuse cases often involve intricate legal and factual issues, and our experience with complex litigation prepares us to meet any challenges that may arise.

Personalized Attention

We provide individualized care and attention to each client and limit our caseload to ensure we can give each client and case the time and attention they deserve. 

No Upfront Costs

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we successfully resolve your case and secure the compensation you deserve. This approach allows you to pursue justice without worrying about upfront legal fees and out-of-pocket costs.

Community Trust

Many of our cases come from referrals, reflecting the trust we’ve built in the Denver community. This high referral rate speaks to the quality of our work and the trust our fellow lawyers put in us.

Comprehensive Support

We don’t just handle the legal aspects of your case. We can connect you with resources for counseling, support groups, and other services to support your overall well-being and help make your recovery smoother and more beneficial.

Statute of Limitations for Sexual Abuse Cases in Colorado

The statute of limitations for filing a sexual abuse lawsuit in Colorado can vary depending on several factors, including when the sexual misconduct occurred and the age of the survivor at the time. 

Recent changes in Colorado law have expanded the rights of sexual abuse survivors, particularly those who were abused as children. These changes recognize the complex nature of sexual abuse trauma and the fact that many survivors may not be ready to come forward immediately.

Additional legislative efforts are underway to eliminate the sexual abuse statute of limitations for civil lawsuits entirely. Advocates of these changes say that children often don’t feel safe telling others about the sexual abuse they’ve experienced, so years may pass before they acknowledge the abuse or decide to take action. 

Proponents also acknowledge that adults often repress the trauma of sexual abuse that happened to them as minors for decades out of fear or shame.

A skilled Denver sexual abuse lawyer will help you understand Colorado’s time limits for sexual abuse civil lawsuits, how current laws affect your case, and your best options for taking legal action.  

Taking the First Step Towards Justice

Coming forward about sexual abuse takes immense courage. At Fuicelli & Lee, our Denver personal injury lawyers are committed to fighting for your rights and helping you seek the justice and compensation you deserve for all you’ve endured.

When you reach out to us, you can expect:

• A confidential, no-pressure consultation
• Compassionate listening and respect for your experiences
• Clear explanations of your legal options
• Guidance on potential next steps
• Support in connecting with additional resources if needed

We understand that taking legal action can be daunting and overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with the trauma of abuse. We strive to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible for our clients.

If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse in Denver or anywhere in Colorado, you have allies and advocates at Fuicelli & Lee. Contact us for a free case evaluation and to schedule a confidential consultation with our Denver sexual abuse attorneys. There is no cost to you, and it comes without obligation. You can reach us by calling (303) 444-4444 or filling out our easy contact form online.