Atlanta Sexual Assault Lawyer

If you’re searching for a sexual assault lawyer to represent you or a loved one after a traumatic rape experience, our sexual assault attorney, Isaac Lezcano, is here to help you fight for justice and compensation. Serving victims throughout Georgia, from Atlanta, Buckhead to Savannah, we provide compassionate, expert legal representation to secure justice and compensation. 

Sexual assault in Georgia is a serious crime with strict penalties, governed by statutes like OCGA § 16-6-22.1 (sexual battery) and OCGA § 16-6-22.2 (aggravated sexual battery). Sexual battery involves non-consensual physical contact with intimate body parts, punishable by fines, jail time, and sex offender registration. Aggravated sexual battery, involving foreign objects or force, carries harsher consequences, including lengthy prison sentences. These criminal laws ensure perpetrators face justice, but victims can also pursue civil claims to recover financial compensation for their suffering. The complexity of these laws makes working with a sexual assault lawyer a necessity.

Civil lawsuits allow victims to seek damages for medical expenses, emotional trauma, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Beyond perpetrators, third parties may be liable under OCGA § 51-3-1 if their negligence, such as inadequate security (e.g., broken locks or poor lighting in an Atlanta apartment complex), contributed to the assault. Employers can also be held accountable under OCGA § 34-7-20 for failing to conduct background checks or ignoring prior complaints about an employee’s behavior, as seen in cases involving workplace assaults in Midtown or Downtown Atlanta.

If you or a loved one has been a victim of sexual assault in any part of Atlanta, you don’t have to face it alone. Contact our Atlanta sexual assault attorney, Isaac Lezcano, today for a free, confidential consultation to learn more about your legal rights and how we can help you seek justice and healing. Contact us now!

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What is the Role of Sexual Assault Lawyers in Georgia Assault Lawsuits?

A sexual assault lawyer is a specialized attorney who represents victims of sexual assault, helping them seek justice and compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial toll of the crime.

In Georgia, these lawyers navigate complex state laws, such as OCGA § 16-6-22.1 (sexual battery) and OCGA § 51-3-1 (premises liability), to hold perpetrators and negligent third parties accountable. By pursuing civil claims, they secure damages for medical expenses, emotional trauma, and lost wages, while offering compassionate support to survivors. 

Sexual assault lawyers undertake critical tasks to build strong cases and support survivors, balancing legal advocacy with emotional care. Their primary responsibilities include:

1. Investigating the Assault

Lawyers thoroughly investigate to identify all liable parties, including perpetrators and negligent third parties like property owners or employers. They collect evidence such as:

• Security Footage: From Atlanta apartment complexes or Peachtree Street businesses.
• Witness Statements: Accounts from bystanders or coworkers clarifying events.
• Incident Reports: Police or workplace records detailing the assault.
• Medical Records: Documentation of physical or psychological injuries.

This evidence proves negligence, such as inadequate security under OCGA § 51-3-1, as seen in cases involving broken locks in Midtown.

2. Proving Liability

To succeed in civil claims, lawyers establish negligence or intentional misconduct, proving duty, breach, causation, and damages. They use:

• Expert Testimony: Psychologists to validate emotional trauma; security experts to highlight premises failures.
• Corporate Records: Employer hiring practices or ignored complaints, liable under OCGA § 34-7-20.
• Forensic Evidence: Medical exams or DNA to link the perpetrator to the assault.

They counter defenses like victim fault or lack of causation, ensuring accountability in courts like Fulton County Superior Court.

3. Calculating and Pursuing Damages

Lawyers assess the full impact of the assault, pursuing:

• Medical Costs: Therapy, hospitalizations, ongoing care.
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to trauma or recovery, critical for survivors in Savannah or Athens.
• Emotional Distress: Valued through psychological evaluations and family testimonies.

Firms like Wetherington Law Firm, with over $100 million in recoveries, including a $12 million judgment for a personal injury case, maximize compensation through skilled negotiation or litigation.

3. Navigating Legal Deadlines

Georgia’s two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims (OCGA § 9-3-33) requires prompt action, with exceptions for minors or fraud (OCGA § 9-3-90, § 9-3-96). Lawyers ensure timely filings, preserving evidence like surveillance footage from Hartsfield-Jackson Airport areas, vital in Atlanta’s fast-paced legal environment.

4. Negotiating Settlements and Litigating

Most cases settle, but lawyers negotiate aggressively with insurers to secure fair payouts, avoiding lowball offers. If needed, they litigate, presenting compelling cases to judges or juries, as sexual assault attorneys like Isaac Lezcano have done, achieving significant verdicts. Their trial readiness ensures maximum recovery for survivors’ losses.

What are the Qualities to Look for in a Sexual Assault Lawyer?

Choosing the right lawyer ensures a strong, supportive case. Seek:

• Experience: A track record like Wetherington Law Firm’s $12 million judgment and specialization in sexual assault.
• Reputation: Strong client reviews, a “Superb” Avvo rating, and Georgia Trial Lawyers Association membership.
• Contingency Fees: No upfront costs, with fees (25–40%) only if they win, as at Wetherington Law Firm.
• Trial Readiness: Experience in Fulton County courts for litigation if needed.
• Local Knowledge: Familiarity with Atlanta’s high-risk areas, like Midtown or Peachtree Street.
• Empathy: Confidential, compassionate communication during free consultations.

Meet Our Sexual Assault Lawyer – Isaac Lezcano

Isaac Lezcano is a dedicated sexual assault lawyer at Wetherington Law Firm, bringing compassionate expertise to victims in Atlanta and across Georgia, from Buckhead to Savannah. With a proven track record of fighting for survivors, Isaac specializes in complex sexual assault cases, securing justice against perpetrators and negligent third parties, such as property owners or employers under OCGA § 51-3-1 and § 34-7-20. 

His meticulous approach to evidence collection leveraging security footage, witness statements, and expert testimony, ensures robust cases that maximize compensation for medical expenses, emotional trauma, and lost wages. Backed by the firm’s $500 million+ in recoveries, including a $12 million judgment for a personal injury case, Isaac’s commitment to sexual assault victims’ empowerment and privacy makes him a trusted advocate.

He provides confidential guidance and handles legal complexities with care so victims can focus on healing. A “Superb” Avvo-rated attorney and active member of the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association, Isaac combines trial-ready advocacy with local knowledge of Atlanta’s high-risk areas. Whether negotiating settlements or litigating in Fulton County Superior Court, Isaac’s mission is clear: to deliver justice and support survivors. Contact him at (404) 888-4444 for a free, confidential consultation to explore your rights.

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What Compensation is Available for Sexual Assault Victims in Atlanta, GA?

Survivors of sexual assault in Atlanta, GA may be entitled to significant financial compensation through a civil lawsuit. Unlike criminal cases, which aim to punish the offender, civil claims focus on helping victims recover damages for the harm they’ve suffered, both physically and emotionally.

Victims may be able to recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses – including emergency care, follow-up treatment, psychological counseling, and future medical needs.
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity – if the trauma interferes with the victim’s ability to work or results in long-term career disruption.
• Pain and suffering – for the physical pain, emotional trauma, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health impacts caused by the assault.
• Punitive damages – in cases of especially egregious or intentional conduct, the court may award additional damages to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior.
• Property owner or employer liability damages – if negligent security, hiring practices, or workplace misconduct played a role, third parties may be held financially responsible under Georgia law (OCGA § 51-3-1 and OCGA § 34-7-20).

Importantly, you do not need a criminal conviction to pursue civil compensation. Our legal team at Wetherington Law Firm can help you build a strong case, gather evidence, and fight for full and fair compensation from all liable parties.

Our commitment to justice sets us apart, making us a trusted choice for victims statewide. Our sexual assault attorneys are here to fight for your justice. Call us today at (404) 888-4444 or fill out our online form for free confidential consultation. 

Types of Sexual Assault Cases We Handle in Georgia

Sexual assault can occur in many forms, each with unique legal implications. Our sexual assault attorneys represent victims in a variety of cases, ensuring that their rights are protected and justice is served. Common types of sexual assault cases we handle in Atlanta include:

• Workplace Sexual Assault and Harassment: Victims may face unwanted sexual advances, coercion, or harassment from colleagues or superiors. Under OCGA § 34-1-2, employers are required to provide a safe working environment, making them potentially liable if they fail to address harassment claims.
• Assaults in Rideshare Vehicles and Public Transportation: Incidents involving rideshare drivers or public transportation staff are increasingly reported. Companies like Uber and Lyft may be held liable if negligent hiring practices or inadequate safety measures contributed to the assault.
• Sexual Abuse by Authority Figures: This includes abuse by teachers, coaches, clergy members, or caregivers who exploit their position of trust. In such cases, institutions may also be held accountable for failing to protect victims.
• Assaults in Public or Private Property: Property owners can be held liable under Georgia’s premises liability laws (OCGA § 51-3-1) if negligent security, such as poor lighting or lack of surveillance, contributed to the attack.

By addressing the specific circumstances of each case, our dedicated sexual assault lawyers build a tailored legal strategy to maximize compensation and achieve justice for our clients.

How Long Do You Have to File a Sexual Assault Lawsuit in Georgia?

In Georgia, the statute of limitations for filing a civil lawsuit related to sexual assault varies depending on the circumstances of the case. Under OCGA § 9-3-33, victims generally have two years from the date of the assault to file a personal injury claim. However, exceptions exist for minors or cases involving delayed discovery of injury, such as repressed memories or psychological trauma that surface later in life. In these situations, the statute of limitations may be extended to ensure victims have an opportunity to seek justice.

Contact an Atlanta Sexual Assault Lawyer

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How is Liability Determined in Sexual Assault Cases in Georgia?

Identifying liability in sexual assault cases in Georgia requires a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. In addition to holding the perpetrator criminally responsible, victims may pursue civil claims against third parties whose negligence contributed to the assault. This can include employers, property owners, security companies, and rideshare services. 

Under OCGA § 51-3-1, property owners have a legal duty to provide safe premises for guests and tenants. If inadequate security measures, such as poor lighting, broken locks, or lack of surveillance, created an environment where the assault occurred, they may be held liable for failing to protect visitors.

Employers can also be held accountable if the assault involved an employee acting within the scope of their duties. For example, if a rideshare driver or delivery worker commits the crime, the employer may be found negligent for insufficient background checks or inadequate safety protocols. In such cases, companies like Uber or Lyft could be held liable under Georgia’s negligent hiring and retention laws (OCGA § 34-7-20). Additionally, if an organization or institution failed to address previous complaints about sexual misconduct, they might bear responsibility for enabling the environment where the assault happened.

To effectively establish liability, victims must demonstrate that the third party owed them a duty of care, breached that duty through negligence, and that the breach directly contributed to the assault. Gathering evidence such as surveillance footage, incident reports, witness statements, and expert testimonies is crucial for building a compelling case. At Wetherington Law Firm, our experienced sexual assault lawyers conduct thorough investigations to uncover all responsible parties and secure maximum compensation for victims.

Our legal team collaborates with security experts, medical professionals, and investigators to analyze the details of each case. By identifying all sources of liability, we pursue justice not only from the perpetrator but also from any negligent parties whose actions or inactions contributed to the assault. If you or a loved one has been a victim of sexual assault in Georgia, contact Wetherington Law Firm for a free, confidential consultation to learn more about your legal rights and options.

Rape Victim Lawyer in Atlanta

Surviving a sexual assault is a profoundly violating and traumatic experience, leaving deep emotional and psychological wounds that can last a lifetime. We understand that revisiting this pain is incredibly difficult, yet seeking justice can be a crucial step toward healing. At the Wetherington Law Firm, our dedicated rape victim lawyers in Atlanta are committed to providing a safe and supportive space where your voice is heard and your story is believed. While the criminal justice system prosecutes the offender, it often leaves survivors without the financial resources needed for recovery. Our compassionate rape attorneys are here to help you pursue a civil lawsuit to secure compensation for medical care, lost wages, and profound emotional distress.

Our legal team meticulously investigates every detail of your case to hold all responsible parties accountable, not just the attacker. In many cases, negligence by third parties created an unsafe environment that allowed the assault to happen. Under Georgia law, this can include property owners who fail to provide adequate security like proper lighting and functional locks (OCGA § 51-3-1), or employers who neglect to perform thorough background checks or ignore previous complaints about an employee. We are relentless in our pursuit of justice, ensuring every party whose negligence contributed to your suffering is held responsible, allowing you to focus on the path to healing and rebuilding your life.

Child Sexual Abuse Lawyer Help

Children are at high risk of sexual abuse. Many are too scared to tell someone, and the abuser might be someone they trust. Child sexual abuse in Georgia involves victims under 16. It can be many things, like inappropriate touching or being forced into sexual activities. If you notice any form of child sexual abuse, you need an attorney by your side as soon as possible.

What to Do if You Face Sexual Abuse in Atlanta

When someone goes through something as awful as sexual abuse or assault, it’s really hard to know what to do next. If this happens to you or someone you know, there are steps you can take to protect your rights. Remember, talking to an assault lawyer can also be a big help.

1. Get Safe: First, make sure you are in a safe place. If you’re not sure where to go, call the National Sexual Assault hotline at 1-800-656-4673. They can help you find a safe place.
2. Go to the Hospital: If you were hurt in this way, go to the hospital right away to get a rape kit done. This kit helps collect important evidence like saliva, DNA, and hairs. It’s best to do this before showering, as evidence can wash away.
3. Tell Someone: It’s normal to feel scared and want to stay alone. But it’s important to talk to someone. This could be a family member, friend, or a professional who can offer support.

Contact an Atlanta Sexual Assault Lawyer

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Get free sexual assault case evaluation from an attorney and pursue justice and compensation

What is the Role of Expert Witnesses in Sexual Assault Litigation?

In sexual assault litigation, expert witnesses often play a critical role in both civil lawsuits and criminal trials. They help the court understand technical, psychological, or medical issues that are beyond the knowledge of an average juror or judge. Here’s how they typically contribute:

1. Medical Experts

• Purpose: Explain physical injuries, trauma, or lack thereof
• May testify about:
  • Medical findings consistent with sexual assault (e.g., physical injuries, DNA evidence)
  • Why certain types of assault may not leave visible injuries
  • Treatment given and its necessity
  • The victim’s physical condition post-assault

2. Forensic Experts

• Purpose: Analyze and interpret forensic evidence
• Can address:
  • DNA testing and results
  • Analysis of bodily fluids, hair, or fibers
  • Interpretation of crime scene evidence
  • How evidence supports or contradicts the accounts of either party

3. Psychological or Psychiatric Experts

• Purpose: Explain emotional and psychological impact
• Testify on:
  • Common trauma responses (e.g., PTSD, delayed reporting, memory gaps)
  • Behavior patterns of sexual assault victims (to counter myths or misconceptions)
  • Long-term mental health effects
• Especially important in explaining why victims may behave in ways jurors don’t expect

4. Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs)

• Purpose: Provide specialized examination and testimony
• SANEs are trained to:
  • Conduct forensic exams of sexual assault victims
  • Document injuries in a legally admissible way
  • Provide expert testimony on findings

5. Law Enforcement or Investigative Experts

• May be called to explain:
  • Investigative procedures
  • Evidence handling and chain of custody
  • Why certain investigative steps were or weren’t taken

6. Consent and Behavioral Experts (Occasionally Used)

• To testify on norms around consent, coercion, or manipulation
• Often used in civil cases involving allegations of coercive behavior or power dynamics

What are the Signs of Sexual Abuse?

Sometimes it’s not easy to tell if someone, especially a child or an older person, is being abused. Here are some signs to look out for:

• Bruises or bleeding in private areas.
• Signs of diseases that are passed through sexual contact.
• Young kids acting like adults in a sexual way.
• Being really scared of certain people or places.

Who Can Be Held Responsible for Sexual Assault?

In a legal case for sexual assault, you can ask for money for your injuries. An assault lawyer can help figure out who is responsible. This might be:

• The person who hurt you.
• Businesses with bad security.
• Schools or universities.
• Churches.
• Groups like the Boy Scouts.

Our Sexual Assault Attorneys Serve Clients in Atlanta and Throughout Georgia.

If you or someone you love has been a victim of sexual assault in Georgia, you don’t have to face it alone. Contact Wetherington Law Firm today for a free, confidential consultation with an experienced sexual assault lawyer. We are dedicated to fighting for justice and ensuring that all responsible parties are held accountable.

Why Choose Wetherington Law Firm as Your Sexual Assault Lawyers?

Sexual assault cases are complex, involving powerful defendants like corporations or property owners, and require a lawyer with both legal expertise and compassion. At Wetherington Law Firm, our Atlanta sexual assault lawyers offer:

• Proven Results: Over $500 million in settlements and verdicts, including a $12 million judgment for a personal injury case.
• Contingency Fees: No upfront costs, with fees (25–40%) only if we win, ensuring accessibility for all Georgians.
• Trial Readiness: Experience in Georgia courts, ready to litigate if settlements fall short.
• Local Expertise: Deep knowledge of Atlanta’s legal system and high-risk areas, like Midtown or Hartsfield-Jackson Airport.
• Confidential Support: A “Superb” Avvo-rated team dedicated to your privacy and healing.

Contact an Atlanta Sexual Assault Lawyer

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Get free sexual assault case evaluation from an attorney and pursue justice and compensation