Child Sexual Abuse

scared child
scared child

Were You a Victim of Child Sexual Abuse?

As children, we are taught to trust the adults around us ─ teachers, caregivers, religious leaders, coaches, youth group leaders. When adults take advantage of that trust and sexually abuse children, victims are often left with feelings of shame, blame, and secrecy. Many survivors keep these memories and feelings buried away, even as they grow into adulthood.

Talking about childhood sexual abuse and the long-lasting effects it has had on your life takes a brave person. As an adult, you have a voice that should be heard, and you have the power to demand justice. Even if criminal charges were not filed at the time, you may have legal rights to hold your abuser liable and demand financial compensation through a civil claim.

At Eisenberg, Rothweiler, Winkler, Eisenberg & Jeck, P.C., our compassionate Philadelphia child abuse attorneys have a long track record of handling sensitive cases like these. We can meet with you in person or just talk over the phone about your situation and your legal options. This consultation is free and confidential, and it is a safe starting point for you to understand your rights and get answers to your questions.

Child Sexual Abuse Cases Our Firm Handles

Sadly, in many cases of childhood sexual abuse, we find that the individual abuser did not act in a vacuum. Adults who are in a position of power are often kept in those positions by the organizations they work for. Abuse may be ignored or covered up. Thus, it becomes a pattern, and the abusers are allowed to continue victimizing children over many years.

At Eisenberg, Rothweiler, Winkler, Eisenberg & Jeck, P.C., our lawyers have the experience and the extensive resources necessary to hold large organizations and religious institutions responsible for the unimaginable harm they have caused. Our firm has successfully taken on high-profile cases involving the Catholic Church the LDS Church, and the Boy Scouts, holding abusive leaders and those who supported them accountable.

Some of the types of child abuse cases our respected trial attorneys take on include:

Our attorneys believe in using every resource possible to investigate and litigate child sexual abuse cases. As a result, we not only help you pursue compensation but also connect you with experienced professionals. Child abuse is a life-altering event. As such, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of survivors and helping them get the comprehensive support they need.

Contact us today to talk with a knowledgeable attorney in a free and confidential consultation.

Why Choose Eisenberg, Rothweiler, Winkler, Eisenberg & Jeck, P.C.?

Our law firm is prepared and equipped to devote the extra time, resources, and effort that are required in these complex cases. Our respected trial attorneys have:

  • Successfully represented survivors of clergy abuse that took place in the 1950s and 1960s, holding the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Philadelphia and former priests accountable
  • Successfully advocated for survivors of childhood sexual abuse at the hands of Scoutmasters, holding the Boy Scouts of America and the Church of Latter-Day Saints (which sponsored some of the activities) accountable

What Is Considered Child Sexual Abuse in Pennsylvania?

The Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN) defines child sexual abuse as when a perpetrator intentionally harms a minor physically, psychologically, sexually, or through acts of neglect. Child sexual abuse is defined as child abuse that involves sexual activity with a minor. Additionally, child sexual abuse does not necessarily have to include physical contact between the perpetrator and child. Examples of child sexual abuse may include:

  • Exhibitionism (exposing one’s self to a minor), fondling, or intercourse
  • Masturbation in the presence of a minor, or forcing a minor to masturbate
  • Obscene phone calls, text messages, or digital interaction of any kind
  • Producing, owning, or sharing pornographic movies or images of children
  • Sex of any kind with a minor
  • Engaging in sexual trafficking
  • Any sexual conduct harmful to a child’s mental, emotional, or physical welfare

Pennsylvania law states that child sexual abuse can also occur because of neglect. If someone fails to prevent known sexual abuse, then he or she can also be charged and held responsible. For further information, consult with our Pennsylvania sexual abuse lawyers.