Parents and guardians can protect children from sexual assault by getting to know the people in the child’s life, such as their teachers, coaches, parents of their friends, tutors, and after-school caregivers. Be diligent about choosing babysitters. Encourage open communication so your child knows it is safe to talk to you. Finally, know the signs of child sexual abuse, which can include phobias, changes in hygiene, nightmares, bed-wetting, and running away from home.
Personal injury lawyers at Crowe Arnold & Majors, LLP offer compassionate legal representation for survivors of sexual abuse and assault. Our attorneys handle civil sexual assault cases against institutions and organizations that, through negligence or willful misconduct, allowed or facilitated the abuse. Please contact us and schedule a free consultation if you suspect your child has been sexually assaulted.
No Fees Unless We Win!
What Is Child Sexual Abuse?
Sexual assault of children transcends race, religion, culture, and socioeconomic status. Here is an overview of how Texas Family Code 261.001 defines child sexual abuse:
- Sexual conduct harmful to a child’s physical, emotional, or mental well-being, including sexual abuse, sexual assault, or aggravated sexual assault.
- Compelling or encouraging a child to engage in sexual conduct.
- Causing, encouraging, permitting, or engaging in filming or photographing a child in an obscene or pornographic way.
- Causing, encouraging, permitting, or engaging in child trafficking.
Texas law also considers a failure to make a reasonable effort to prevent sexual harm to a child a form of abuse.
Experienced Sexual Abuse Attorney.
How to Protect Your Child
According to RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network), the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization, 93 percent of victims under the age of 18 know their abuser.
Encourage Open Communication
Check in with your child often. Talk about their day. Get to know their teachers, coaches, tutors, or after-school caregivers. Ensure that you know their friends and their parents. If your child uses the internet, teach them about cyberbullying and online predators and practice safe technology use.
Children are more likely to speak up if they know it’s safe to share their feelings and that they will be heard. As soon as a child can verbalize their emotions, it’s time to have these conversations. Use age-appropriate language to teach children about their bodies so they can articulate if something feels wrong to them.
Explain the importance of boundaries and that no one has the right to touch them if it makes them uncomfortable—even hugs from a family member. Provide a safe space where the child feels secure enough to ask questions and express themselves without worrying about being judged or punished.
Screen Caregivers
Be selective about who has access to your child. Always check references for a nanny or sitter. While most educators and coaches must complete background checks, don’t hesitate to contact their employer if you have concerns. You can also search the National Sex Offender Registry by name and location to see if a teacher, or a member of a religious or youth organization has committed a past sex crime. Trust your gut and teach your child to do the same.
No Fee Unless We Win. Call Today and Speak to an
Experienced Sexual Abuse Attorney.
Report Abuse
Texas law requires anyone who suspects child abuse or neglect to report it immediately. Call 911 in an emergency, then call the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) Texas Abuse Hotline at 800-252-5400.
Reporting is not just a parent’s responsibility. Teachers, caregivers, healthcare providers, or anyone who believes a child is being abused or neglected must report their concerns. Learn about expectations when reporting child sexual assault. As a parent or guardian, do not hesitate to report your concerns.
Contact Crowe Arnold & Majors for a Free Consultation
Local law enforcement oversees criminal proceedings in child sexual assault cases. Child abuse survivors can seek justice in civil court as well. Our team of caring and compassionate Dallas sexual assault lawyers has the skill and experience to oversee complex claims against abusers and the schools, churches, and institutions that harbor them.
We are committed to securing the maximum compensation that reflects all of the ways abuse has impacted a child’s health and well-being. Damages for civil claims can include everything from medical bills and physical pain to mental anguish and emotional trauma. Schedule a free and confidential consultation. Based in Dallas, we assist clients across Dallas County and throughout Texas.
