Although Texas lawsuits are considered public records, minors are permitted to use pseudonyms in civil sexual abuse cases brought by their parents or guardians. They are referred to as Jane or John Doe or by their initials. However, they are required to provide their names in court. Witnesses, experts, and other parties involved in the case may learn their identities during proceedings.
Dallas sexual assault attorneys at Crowe Arnold & Majors, LLP understand the trauma of sexual abuse. We are steadfast in the pursuit of justice for victims of sexual violence, exploitation, and sexual assault. We will handle your case discreetly and professionally while working tirelessly to achieve maximum recovery for your losses. Schedule a free consultation to learn more about how we could help you.
Anonymity and Texas Sexual Abuse Lawsuits
In Texas, sexual abuse lawsuits and other civil claims are public records. However, because of the sensitive nature of the offense, the state allows minors to remain anonymous during civil proceedings. Their name is redacted and referred to by their initials or as “Jane Doe” or “John Doe.”
No Fees Unless We Win!
There are some benefits to remaining anonymous in sexual abuse cases:
- The survivor’s name is not searchable online.
- Survivors can determine if and when they want to share their experiences with others.
- The parties involved in the case cannot share details about the plaintiff’s identity or discuss it with anyone.
It’s important to note that even if the parents or guardian files anonymously, that decision won’t impact the strength of the case. We will investigate your claim and gather all necessary evidence while protecting your child’s identity as much as possible. However, witnesses, experts, and other parties may learn their identities during proceedings. We can request that all parties sign a confidentiality agreement prohibiting them from discussing the case outside of court.
Civil Lawsuits for Child Sexual Abuse
When churches, schools, camps, and other youth organizations fail to prevent child sexual abuse by ignoring complaints about an employee or by not vetting employees, they can be held accountable. Sexual assault civil lawsuits allow survivors to seek financial compensation for all of the ways it has impacted their lives. In Texas, three types of damages are possible in these cases.
- Economic damages: Direct financial losses resulting from sexual abuse, including medical bills, counseling costs, and lost income
- Non-economic damages: Intangible losses including pain and suffering, emotional distress, mental anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life
- Punitive damages: Additional damages imposed to punish the defendant(s) and deter them or others from offending in the future
Your attorney will evaluate your case to calculate your damages based on your losses. Many sexual abuse cases settle out of court. However, if we cannot reach a fair settlement, our team is prepared to take the case to trial.
Tap Here to Call Our Law Office
Can an Adult Survivor of Child Sex Abuse Remain Anonymous?
While it is understandable that an adult survivor of child sex abuse may not want to reveal their identity when filing a civil lawsuit against the offender, using their real name is the only way adults can pursue this path to justice. Many survivors do not report sexual assaults, and they are left to deal with the aftermath on their own. By filing a lawsuit– even if you cannot use a pseudonym– you may receive damages to pay for ongoing counseling and other therapies to help you rebuild your life.
Take the First Step Toward Justice: Let Us Handle the Legal Battle.
Our Dallas sexual assault lawyers support and empower survivors and handle every case with care and compassion. Schedule a free and confidential consultation about bringing a civil case for your minor child or if you are an adult survivor of child sexual abuse or assault. Crowe Arnold & Majors, LLP proudly represents clients across Dallas and all of Texas.
