Mount Pleasant Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Statute of Limitations for Sexual Abuse Cases in South Carolina

The statute of limitations dictates how long survivors have to file a lawsuit. South Carolina law provides different time limits for criminal and civil sexual abuse cases, depending on the circumstances. These deadlines can have a significant impact on a survivor’s ability to seek justice, which is why it is important to understand how they apply to your case. In some situations, legal exceptions may allow survivors to file claims even after the standard deadlines have passed.

Time Limits for Criminal Cases

For serious sexual offenses, there is no statute of limitations, meaning survivors can report the abuse at any time, even decades after the crime occurred. This ensures that perpetrators of particularly egregious offenses can still face prosecution, regardless of how much time has passed.

That said, for lesser sexual offenses, specific deadlines may apply, limiting the timeframe in which law enforcement can press charges. Because these laws can be complex, it is critical to consult with an attorney who understands South Carolina’s criminal statutes and can help determine whether criminal prosecution is still an option.

Time Limits for Civil Lawsuits

Survivors who wish to pursue financial compensation through a civil lawsuit typically have three years from the date of the abuse or from the date they discovered its impact to take legal action. However, there are important exceptions to this rule. For cases involving minors, the clock may not start until the survivor turns 18, allowing them time to come forward as an adult.

If an institution, such as a school, religious organization, or employer, played a role in enabling the abuse, the deadline may be extended to account for negligence or cover-ups.

Why You Should Act Quickly

Even if you believe too much time has passed, consulting an experienced attorney is crucial. Some survivors may not recognize the full extent of their trauma until years later, and South Carolina law allows for exceptions in certain cases.

Our legal team will evaluate your situation, review any applicable extensions, and work tirelessly to ensure you have the opportunity to seek justice. Do not assume you are out of options — contact us today to discuss your case confidentially.

Compensation for Sexual Abuse Survivors

Survivors of sexual abuse may be entitled to substantial financial compensation. While no amount of money can erase the trauma, compensation can provide the resources needed for recovery and a sense of justice. Civil lawsuits typically involve three types of damages: economic, non-economic, and punitive damages.

Economic Damages

Economic damages cover tangible financial losses resulting from the abuse. This may include medical expenses, therapy and counseling costs, and lost wages if the trauma impacted your ability to work. Our attorneys work with financial and medical experts to calculate the full scope of damages to ensure survivors receive the compensation they need for long-term recovery.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages address the emotional and psychological impact of abuse. This includes compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Courts recognize that survivors endure lifelong trauma, and these damages aim to provide financial relief for their suffering.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are awarded in cases where gross negligence or institutional misconduct contributed to the abuse. These damages serve as a form of punishment against the responsible party and send a strong message that such actions will not be tolerated.

At Lanier Law Group, we fight for the maximum compensation possible, ensuring that survivors receive the justice they deserve.

Dispelling Common Misconceptions About Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse is a deeply sensitive and complex issue, yet many harmful misconceptions persist, making it even more difficult for survivors to come forward. These misunderstandings can lead to victim-blaming, shame, and hesitation in seeking justice. At Lanier Law Group, we believe that dismantling these myths is essential to empowering survivors and ensuring accountability for abusers.

Sexual Abuse Only Happens to Women

While the majority of reported sexual abuse cases involve female survivors, sexual abuse affects people of all genders. Men and boys can also be victims, yet many hesitate to report their abuse due to stigma, fear of not being believed, or societal pressures to remain silent. No survivor should feel ashamed or invalidated because of their gender.

Survivors Should Have Fought Back

One of the most damaging myths about sexual abuse is that victims should have physically resisted their abuser. The reality is that many survivors experience “freeze” responses due to fear, shock, or trauma. Abusers often use manipulation, coercion, threats, or authority to control their victims, making physical resistance either impossible or extremely dangerous. Not fighting back does not mean consent — it means survival.

Only Strangers Commit Sexual Abuse

Many people imagine sexual violence as a crime committed by a stranger in a dark alley, but in reality, most victims know their abuser. Whether it’s a family member, teacher, coach, religious leader, co-worker, or trusted friend, sexual abuse often occurs within relationships of trust and authority. This dynamic can make it even harder for survivors to come forward, as they may fear retaliation, disbelief, or further harm.

If a Survivor Delays Reporting, They Must Be Lying

Some survivors wait months, years, or even decades before coming forward about their abuse. This does not make their experience any less valid. Trauma affects memory and decision-making, and many survivors hesitate to report their abuse due to fear, shame, threats, or concerns about how they will be treated by society or the legal system. The passage of time does not erase the crime or the survivor’s right to seek justice.

Filing a Civil Lawsuit Is Only About Money

Some believe that survivors who file civil lawsuits are only seeking financial gain. In reality, these lawsuits serve a critical role in holding abusers and negligent institutions accountable. Compensation helps survivors access therapy, medical care, and financial stability, allowing them to rebuild their lives. Civil lawsuits also expose patterns of abuse, potentially preventing future harm.

At Lanier Law Group, we are committed to dispelling these misconceptions, supporting survivors, and fighting for the justice they deserve. If you have been affected by sexual abuse, you are not alone — we are here to help.

Why Choose Lanier Law Group?

Lanier Law Group has built a reputation as a powerful advocate for survivors of sexual abuse. Our team has handled more sexual abuse cases than any other firm in North Carolina, and we bring that same level of commitment, experience, and fierce advocacy to survivors in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina.

Every attorney at our firm has undergone extensive trauma-informed training, ensuring that survivors feel heard, respected, and supported throughout the legal process. We understand the deep emotional and psychological impact of sexual abuse, and we take a survivor-centered approach that prioritizes safety, empowerment, and healing. From the moment you reach out to us, we work to create a secure and judgment-free space where you can share your story on your own terms.

Compassionate, Trauma-Informed Representation

We recognize that navigating the legal system can be overwhelming, especially for survivors of sexual abuse. Our team is trained in trauma-informed responses, meaning we approach every case with sensitivity, patience, and an understanding of how trauma affects survivors. We prioritize your well-being at every stage, ensuring that you never feel pressured or retraumatized during the legal process.

Aggressive Litigation Against Abusers and Institutions

While we treat our clients with compassion, we take an aggressive stance against abusers and the institutions that protect them. We do not back down from powerful organizations, and we fight relentlessly to hold those responsible accountable. Whether through negotiations or in the courtroom, we are committed to securing justice for survivors.

Decades of Experience Handling Complex Sexual Abuse Cases

Sexual abuse cases require a deep understanding of legal strategy, forensic evidence, and institutional negligence. With decades of experience, our attorneys know how to build strong cases that maximize the chances of success. We have successfully represented survivors in lawsuits against individuals, employers, schools, religious organizations, and other entities that failed to prevent abuse.

No Fees Unless We Win — Survivors Pay Nothing Upfront

We believe that every survivor deserves access to high-quality legal representation, regardless of financial circumstances. That is why we work on a contingency fee basis — you do not pay anything unless we recover compensation for you. Our goal is to remove any barriers that may prevent you from seeking justice.

Survivors deserve justice, accountability, and a voice. At Lanier Law Group, we are here to fight for you and ensure that your story is heard.

Take the First Step Toward Justice

If you or someone you love has been a victim of sexual abuse in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, you do not have to face this battle alone. At Lanier Law Group, we are ready to stand by your side, fight for your rights, and seek the compensation you deserve.

Your voice matters, and justice starts with one step. Call 919-342-1368 or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation with an experienced sexual abuse attorney. Let us help you take back your power and move forward with strength, dignity, and confidence.