Child sexual abuse cases need three things.

Long-Term Effects of Child Sexual Abuse

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Survivors often experience PTSD, including flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety, making daily life and relationships challenging.

Anxiety Disorders

Child sexual abuse can lead to chronic anxiety, panic attacks, and constant fear, impacting a survivor’s ability to feel safe and secure.

Personality Disorders

Early trauma can disrupt emotional development, increasing the risk of personality disorders such as borderline or dissociative identity disorder.

Eating Disorders

Survivors may develop eating disorders like anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating as a way to regain control over their bodies and cope with trauma.

Relationship and Intimacy Issues

Trust issues, emotional detachment, and fear of vulnerability can make it difficult for survivors to form healthy relationships or experience intimacy.

Somatic Disorders & Chronic Health Issues

Unresolved trauma can manifest as chronic pain, gastrointestinal issues, headaches, and other stress-related health conditions.

Substance Abuse & Addiction

Many survivors turn to drugs or alcohol to numb emotional pain, increasing the risk of addiction and long-term health complications.

Self-Esteem & Identity Struggles

Feelings of shame, guilt, and worthlessness can lead to low self-esteem, self-destructive behaviors, and difficulty developing a stable sense of self.

Increased Risk of Revictimization

Survivors can be at greater risk of future abuse or exploitation due to unresolved trauma, difficulty recognizing unsafe situations, and trust vulnerabilities.

It's easy to get started.

The Fee Is Free®.
Only pay if we win.

  • Number 1
    Submit your claim
    With a free case evaluation, submitting your case is easy with Morgan & Morgan.
  • Number 2
    We take action
    Our dedicated team gets to work investigating your claim.
  • Number 3
    We fight for you
    If we take on the case, our team fights to get you the results you deserve.

In Their Words

Real clients share their experience.

When it came to negotiating, they didn't just settle for anything. They definitely went to the bat for me.

Lashondra
lashondra
Wistia

They took care of me, and now we're doing okay. Thank God that I went to Morgan & Morgan.

Ray
Video thumbnail for ordsi98jme
Wistia

The company handled absolutely everything from start to finish.

Sean
image of sean
Wistia

Lashondra

lashondra

Ray

Video thumbnail for ordsi98jme

Sean

image of sean
Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Based on select nationwide reviews.

Ways We Can Help

Clergy Abuse

Religious leaders should protect, not harm, children. Clergy abuse has devastated many. We help survivors hold churches and institutions accountable.

Sex Trafficking

Children are exploited in sex trafficking, suffering severe trauma. We fight for survivors to seek justice against traffickers and enablers who profited from the trafficking.

Institutional Cover-Up

Schools, religious groups, and institutions hide abuse to protect reputations. We help victims expose cover-ups and hold those responsible accountable.

Foster Care Abuse

Foster children face abuse from parents, caretakers, and staff. We protect victims and hold agencies accountable for failing to keep them safe.

Online Exploitation and Child Pornography

Predators exploit children online through grooming, abuse, and trafficking. We help victims seek justice against offenders and negligent platforms.

Family and Domestic Abuse

Many children suffer abuse from family or acquaintances. We fight to hold abusers accountable and ensure survivors get the support they need.
FAQ
  • How do I know if I have a child sexual abuse case?

    Every situation is different, but many cases involve abuse by someone in a position of trust, authority, or supervision. This can include teachers, coaches, caregivers, religious leaders, or other adults responsible for a child’s care.

    A case may exist if abuse occurred and resulted in emotional, psychological, or physical harm. In many situations, institutions such as schools, organizations, or employers may also be held accountable if they failed to protect the child or ignored warning signs.

    If you’re unsure whether you have a case, speaking with an attorney can help you better understand your options in a safe and confidential setting.

  • What should I do if I suspect or discover child sexual abuse?

    The most important step is ensuring the child’s immediate safety. If the child is in danger, contact emergency services right away. You may also consider reporting the situation to local law enforcement or child protective services.

    Seeking medical and psychological care can also be important, even if the abuse is not recent. Preserving any evidence, such as messages or communications, may be helpful as well.

    These situations can be overwhelming, and you don’t have to navigate them alone. Speaking with an attorney can help you understand what steps to take next while prioritizing the child’s well-being.

  • How long do I have to file a child sexual abuse claim?

    The time to file a claim depends on state law, and many states have special rules for child sexual abuse cases. In some cases, the deadline may be extended because survivors may not come forward until years later.

    Because these timelines can vary and may involve exceptions, it’s important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to understand what deadlines may apply to your situation.

  • What types of compensation may be available in a child sexual abuse case?

    Compensation in these cases is intended to address the harm caused and support long-term recovery. Depending on the circumstances, this may include:

    • Costs of medical and psychological treatment
    • Therapy and counseling expenses
    • Emotional distress and trauma
    • Loss of quality of life
    • In some cases, punitive damages

    Every case is unique, and the compensation available will depend on the specific facts involved.

  • Why should I hire a child sexual abuse attorney at Morgan & Morgan?

    Child sexual abuse cases are deeply sensitive and often complex. They may involve powerful individuals or institutions, extensive evidence, and long-term impacts on survivors and their families.

    Morgan & Morgan is America’s Largest Injury Law Firm, with more than 1,100 attorneys and over 35 years of experience representing individuals and families. Our attorneys understand how to approach these cases with care, discretion, and a commitment to seeking accountability.

    We work on a contingency fee basis, which means The Fee Is Free™—you don’t pay anything unless we win your case.

    If you or someone you love has been affected by child sexual abuse, you don’t have to face it alone. Fill out a free, confidential case evaluation today to learn more about your options.

Scroll down for more