Sexual Assault Lawyer in Atlanta

Experienced Atlanta Sexual Assault Lawyer: Representing Victims of Sexual Assault Throughout Georgia

Need an experienced sexual assault lawyer in any part of Georgia? Call us at (404)-888-4444.

Sexual assault is a serious crime in Georgia, with strict legal consequences for perpetrators and strong protections for victims. Under OCGA § 16-6-22.1, sexual battery is defined as intentional physical contact with another person’s intimate parts without consent.

More severe cases, like aggravated sexual battery under OCGA § 16-6-22.2, involve the use of a foreign object and carry harsher penalties, including long prison sentences and mandatory sex offender registration. Victims can pursue criminal charges to hold offenders accountable, ensuring justice through the legal system.

In addition to criminal prosecution, victims of sexual assault of any kind have the right to file civil lawsuits to seek financial compensation for medical expenses, emotional trauma, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Civil claims can be filed not only against the perpetrator but also against third parties whose negligence contributed to the assault.

Under OCGA § 51-3-1, property owners can be held liable if inadequate security, such as poor lighting or broken locks, created unsafe conditions. Employers may also be responsible under OCGA § 34-7-20 if they failed to perform proper background checks or ignored previous complaints about an employee’s behavior.

At Wetherington Law Firm, our experienced Atlanta sexual assault lawyers are dedicated to pursuing justice and maximum compensation for victims. We conduct thorough investigations to identify all liable parties, ensuring no stone is left unturned. Our compassionate team understands the emotional toll of sexual assault and provides confidential, supportive legal representation every step of the way.

If you or a loved one 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 to learn more about your legal rights and how we can help you seek justice and healing.

Compensation Available for Sexual Assault Victims in Atlanta

Victims of sexual assault in Atlanta are entitled to seek compensation for the profound impact on their lives. This includes economic damages such as medical expenses for physical injuries and psychological treatment, as well as non-economic damages for pain and suffering. Under OCGA § 51-12-2, Georgia law allows victims to pursue compensatory damages to restore their financial stability and emotional well-being. In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the offender and deter similar behavior in the future.

Furthermore, victims who have experienced lost wages or diminished earning capacity due to the emotional aftermath of the assault can seek compensation for these financial losses. At Wetherington Law Firm, we understand the complexities of calculating the full extent of damages and work closely with medical and financial experts to build a compelling case. Our compassionate approach ensures that victims receive the support they need while we aggressively pursue maximum compensation on their behalf.

Why Choose Wetherington Law Firm as Your Georgia Sexual Assault Lawyer

Choosing the right legal representation is crucial for sexual assault victims seeking justice and recovery. At Wetherington Law Firm, our team of skilled Atlanta sexual assault lawyers is committed to providing empathetic and strategic legal support. We understand the sensitive nature of these cases and prioritize maintaining confidentiality and dignity for our clients. Our extensive experience with Georgia’s sexual assault laws and civil litigation allows us to navigate complex legal challenges and fight for justice effectively.

We offer a free, confidential consultation to help victims understand their legal options and build a strong case. Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning clients pay nothing unless we secure a favorable outcome. With a proven track record of success and a commitment to client advocacy, Wetherington Law Firm is dedicated to helping victims find closure and regain control of their lives. If you or a loved one has suffered from sexual assault in Atlanta, Marietta, Macon, or any part of Georgia, contact us today to learn how we can help you seek justice and begin the healing process.

Common 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 attorneys in Atlanta 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.

It’s crucial to act promptly, as waiting too long can result in losing the right to pursue compensation. Evidence, including medical records, witness statements, and surveillance footage, can deteriorate or become harder to obtain over time. We help victims navigate the complexities of Georgia’s legal system and ensure all necessary documentation is filed within the required deadlines. If you’re unsure about your case’s timeframe, contact us for a free consultation to learn more about your legal options.

What to Expect When Working with Wetherington Law Firm

At Wetherington Law Firm, we understand the emotional and psychological impact sexual assault has on victims. Our approach is built on empathy, confidentiality, and fierce advocacy for justice. From the moment you contact us, we prioritize your safety and comfort, ensuring sensitive communication and respect for your privacy. Our team of Atlanta sexual assault lawyers takes the time to listen to your story, answer your questions, and develop a personalized legal strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.

During the legal process, we handle all interactions with law enforcement, insurance companies, and opposing legal teams, so you can focus on healing and recovery. We maintain transparent communication, keeping you informed of any developments and guiding you through each step of your case. With a proven track record of success and a commitment to fighting for victims’ rights, we aim to secure maximum compensation for medical expenses, emotional suffering, lost wages, and punitive damages where applicable. 

Our contingency fee arrangement ensures you pay nothing unless we win your case, reflecting our dedication to achieving justice for sexual assault survivors. Contact us today to speak with a sexual assault attorney. 

How to Identify Liability 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 Atlanta 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

Rape is one of the most traumatic and serious crimes under Georgia law, leaving victims with emotional, physical, and psychological scars. At Wetherington Law Firm, our dedicated rape victim lawyers are committed to helping survivors seek justice and financial recovery. Under OCGA § 16-6-1, rape is defined as non-consensual vaginal penetration achieved through force, intimidation, or threats. 

In Georgia, rape is prosecuted as a felony, carrying severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and mandatory sex offender registration. However, criminal convictions do not provide compensation to victims for their suffering. That’s why many survivors pursue civil lawsuits to seek damages for medical expenses, emotional trauma, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Our experienced Atlanta rape victim lawyers provide compassionate, confidential support to survivors, guiding them through the complex legal process. We thoroughly investigate each case to identify all responsible parties, including third parties whose negligence may have contributed to the assault. For example, under OCGA § 51-3-1, property owners can be held liable if inadequate security, such as poor lighting or broken locks, enabled the attack. 

Additionally, employers may be responsible under OCGA § 34-7-20 if they failed to perform proper background checks or ignored prior complaints about an employee’s behavior. We leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of justice, ensuring that all negligent parties are held accountable.

Our rape victim lawyers understand the emotional toll of surviving rape, and we are committed to helping you rebuild your life. Our team provides a safe, supportive environment where your voice is heard and your story matters. We fight tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve, allowing you to focus on healing and recovery. If you or a loved one has been a victim of rape in Georgia, contact us today for a free, confidential consultation with an experienced Atlanta rape victim lawyer to learn more about your legal rights and options.

Sodomy Lawyer in Atlanta

Sodomy and aggravated sodomy are serious criminal offenses in Georgia, with severe legal consequences for perpetrators and a significant impact on victims. Under OCGA § 16-6-2, sodomy is defined as any sexual act involving oral or anal contact between individuals. 

Aggravated sodomy, a more severe offense, involves non-consensual oral or anal contact achieved through force or threats. In Georgia, aggravated sodomy is classified as a felony, carrying harsh penalties, including life imprisonment and mandatory registration as a sex offender. At Wetherington Law Firm, our skilled sodomy lawyers are dedicated to helping victims seek justice and financial compensation for the trauma they have endured.

Victims of sodomy have the right to pursue both criminal charges and civil lawsuits against their attackers. Criminal convictions can result in imprisonment and other penalties, but they do not provide compensation to victims for their pain and suffering. In civil cases, victims can seek financial recovery for medical expenses, counseling costs, lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages. Civil claims can be filed not only against the perpetrator but also against third parties whose negligence contributed to the assault. 

This includes property owners, employers, or institutions that failed to provide adequate security or respond to known threats. Under OCGA § 51-3-1, property owners can be held liable if unsafe conditions, such as poor lighting or lack of security personnel, created an environment where the assault occurred.

Our experienced Atlanta sodomy lawyers provide compassionate legal support to victims, conducting thorough investigations to build a strong case against all responsible parties. We collaborate with security experts, medical professionals, and investigators to gather evidence and secure maximum compensation. 

At Wetherington Law Firm, we understand the sensitive nature of these cases and handle them with the utmost care and confidentiality. If you or someone you know has been a victim of sodomy or aggravated sodomy in Georgia, contact us today for a free, confidential consultation with a trusted Atlanta sodomy lawyer to explore your legal options and start your journey toward justice and healing.’s enough if someone makes you scared of being hurt.

Explanation of Civil vs. Criminal Proceedings for Compensation in Assault and Battery Cases

When someone commits assault and battery, it means they’ve hurt someone else on purpose. This can be both a crime and a tort. Let’s break down what that means. Assault and battery are not just crimes; they are also torts. This is important. A prosecutor may decide to charge the person who hurt you with a crime, but you can also take them to civil court. This is separate from any criminal case.

Criminal Case for Assault and Battery:

1. Prosecutor’s Role: In a criminal case, a prosecutor (a lawyer who represents the government) decides if they should charge the person who caused harm. This is about breaking a law.
2. Penalties: The penalties in a criminal case can include jail time or fines.
3. Purpose: The main goal here is to punish the wrongdoer and protect society.

Civil Case for Assault and Battery:

1. Victim’s Role: In a civil case, you (the victim) can start a lawsuit against the person who hurt you. This is about the harm you suffered.
2. Compensation: You can ask for money to cover different things like:
   • Medical Bills: For treatment of injuries from the attack.
   • Counseling: If you need help to cope with the emotional impact.
   • Lost Wages: Money you couldn’t earn because you were recovering.
   • Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional distress.
3. Punitive Damages: In Georgia, you can also seek punitive damages. These are special and are given when the attacker’s actions were extremely harmful or intentional. This is a way to punish them and discourage others from doing the same thing.

Role of an Assault Lawyer:

• In Criminal Cases: The lawyer might work for the state (as a prosecutor) or defend the accused person.
• In Civil Cases: Assault lawyers work for YOU. They help you file a lawsuit and fight for your compensation.

Understanding an Assault Lawyer’s Job in Personal Injury Cases

Criminal cases are about justice and keeping people safe. Civil cases are about getting you the help and compensation you need. Winning a criminal case doesn’t automatically give you money. You need a civil case for that. So, what can you expect from an assault and battery lawyer?

We are Great at Finding Proof

Assault lawyers are experts at finding and understanding proof in assault cases. They get all kinds of evidence, like medical reports, what witnesses say, videos, and police reports. They know what kind of proof is really strong in court and how to show it well.

We Build a Strong Case for You

Your assault lawyer uses all the evidence to make a strong case for you. They plan out how to show how bad the assault was, whether the person who hurt you meant to do it or was careless, and how the assault changed your life. They’re really good at making sure your story is told well and clearly.

We Stand Up For You in BOTH case

A big part of what assault lawyers do is stand up for your rights. We know how tough and sensitive assault cases can be. Our lawyers make sure you’re treated well and with respect. They speak for you, so you don’t have to face the person who hurt you or answer tough questions that could make you feel bad again.

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.

What to Do if You Face Sexual Abuse or Assault

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.

Do You Have to Tell the Police?

You, as the victim, don’t have to report to the police. But if a child is involved, certain adults like doctors and teachers might have to report it. Even if you don’t tell the police, you may still be able to file a civil claim with a sexual assault lawyer.

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 is 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.

Resources for Assault Victims in Georgia

It’s really important to report these crimes. This can stop the person who did it from hurting others. Depending on what they did, they could go to jail for a long time. It also helps you gain access to resources that might otherwise be unavailable. Even if you choose not to report, take a look at our 2024 Resource Guide for Assault Victims in Georgia.

Locations We Serve – Sexual Assault Attorney in Georgia

At Wetherington Law Firm, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and experienced legal representation to sexual assault victims throughout Georgia. Our knowledgeable sexual assault attorneys understand the emotional and financial challenges survivors face, and we are committed to helping them seek justice and compensation. We proudly serve clients in communities across the state, ensuring they receive the support and advocacy they need during this difficult time.

Our Sexual Assault Attorneys Serve Clients In:

• Atlanta: We represent victims throughout Atlanta, including areas such as Buckhead, Midtown, Downtown Atlanta, West End, East Atlanta Village, and Virginia-Highland. Our team is well-versed in local laws and resources to help victims navigate the legal system.
• Marietta: Our legal support extends to victims in East Cobb, West Cobb, Downtown Marietta, and Smyrna, advocating for their rights and seeking maximum compensation for their pain and suffering.
• Savannah: We assist sexual assault victims in Historic Downtown Savannah, Ardsley Park, Isle of Hope, Southside Savannah, and Georgetown, holding perpetrators and negligent third parties accountable.
• Augusta: In Augusta, we represent victims in Summerville, West Augusta, Downtown Augusta, Forest Hills, and Hephzibah, ensuring they receive justice and financial recovery.
• Columbus: Our team supports survivors in Midtown Columbus, Downtown Columbus, North Columbus, Fort Benning, and East Columbus with compassionate guidance and aggressive legal representation.
• Macon: We help victims in Downtown Macon, North Macon, East Macon, West Macon, and Lake Tobesofkee pursue civil claims against responsible parties, including property owners and employers.
• Other Areas: We serve clients throughout Georgia, including Athens (Five Points, Normaltown, Downtown Athens), Alpharetta (Windward, Crabapple, Downtown Alpharetta), Sandy Springs (Perimeter Center, Riverside, North Springs), and more. No matter where you are located, we are here to help.

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.

Talk to an Assault Lawyer

It’s a good idea to talk to a lawyer who knows about these kinds of cases. They can give you legal advice, help you understand your rights, and guide you on what to do next. Contact us today for free case evaluation.