A report of child abuse is made every ten seconds in the United States. Child abuse is an unfortunate occurrence that is far more common than any parent would hope. Many survivors delay reporting or never report abuse. Therefore, statistics likely underestimate the true impact of the problem. Although estimates vary across studies, the research shows:

• Approximately 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 13 boys in the United States experience child sexual abuse before they turn 18.

• Someone known of trusted by the child, or a member of the child’s family, is the offender in 93% of incidents of child abuse. Stranger child abuse is comparatively uncommon.

• Experiencing child abuse (physical, sexual, or emotional) can affect the way a person thinks, acts, and feels over a lifetime. This can result in short- and long-term physical, mental, and behavioral health consequences. Felliti, V. J., et al. (1998). The Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Study. American Journal of Preventative Medicine, 14, 245-258.

Amber provides experienced, caring representation to children and adult survivors of child abuse. With her vast experience in both physical and sexual abuse to children, she can assist your family through the confusing and frightening process of seeking justice and fair compensation. Amber takes a trauma-informed approach to her representation and will be guided by the survivor’s needs and the family’s best interests.

After learning that their child has been abused, parents often feel angry, desperate, and powerless. Many are often unaware that they can take action against those who committed the abuse or allowed it to happen. Criminal charges are often filed by the State in child abuse cases, but as a parent you also have the right to initiate a civil lawsuit on your child’s behalf against the abuser. To learn more about a civil vs. criminal lawsuit, click here.

If the abuser was in a position of trust or authority, you are likely not alone as a survivor.

Oregon laws allow survivors of child sexual abuse increased time limits to file civil lawsuits and initiate criminal prosecutions. Oregon’s lawmakers recognize the inherent difficulty for survivors to disclose child sexual abuse. Similarly, it may take years to discover the full scope of the injury and harm caused by the abuse. If you or someone you know is a survivor of child sexual abuse, speak to an attorney to learn about whether a claim is still possible.

Empower yourself. Protect other children.