Miami Sexual Abuse Lawyer – Fighting for Survivors with Dignity and Strength

Standing Up for Survivors in Miami, FL

If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse, you are not alone, and you deserve justice. At Rafaeli Law PLLC, our Miami sexual abuse lawyers are committed to helping survivors hold abusers and negligent institutions accountable. We understand the courage it takes to speak out, and we are here to offer compassionate, confidential, and aggressive legal support every step of the way.

Understanding Sexual Abuse Under Florida Law

Sexual abuse refers to any non-consensual sexual act, including assault, exploitation, or harassment. Under Florida Statutes § 794, sexual battery and related offenses carry serious penalties and may also be grounds for a civil lawsuit.

Common Examples of Sexual Abuse:

Child Sexual Abuse – Involving inappropriate contact or exploitation of a minor, this often includes grooming, molestation, or digital exploitation, and may result in criminal charges and lifelong psychological harm.
Workplace Sexual Harassment – Unwanted advances, coercion, or threats in professional settings can interfere with employment rights and create a hostile work environment. Read more about employer liability on our Premises & Property Injuries page.
Clergy Abuse – Sexual misconduct involving religious leaders or institutions, often involving breaches of trust and authority.
Assault by Medical or Care Professionals – Abuse of authority by doctors, nurses, therapists, or nursing home staff, usually involving incapacitated patients. Related concerns may fall under Medical Malpractice and Nursing Home Negligence.
Institutional Abuse – Occurring in schools, detention centers, or residential facilities where oversight may be lacking. In these cases, Wrongful Death or gross negligence may also apply.

Learn more about your legal rights and remedies for abuse.

Miami Sexual Abuse Statistics

Sexual Assault Statistics in Miami-Dade

According to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), Miami-Dade County reports hundreds of sexual assault cases each year. In 2022, more than 1,300 sexual offenses were documented in the region, covering both adult and juvenile victims.

Underreporting and Support Resources

National data from RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) show that only about 25% of sexual assaults are reported to law enforcement, meaning actual incidents are likely much higher. Survivors across Florida can find guidance and victim assistance programs through the Florida Council Against Sexual Violence (FCASV), which provides policy updates, training, and statewide support services.

What To Do If You Are a Victim of Sexual Abuse in Miami

Taking action after abuse can feel overwhelming, but some steps protect your rights:

Ensure Your Safety – Get to a secure place and avoid contact with the abuser.
Seek Medical Attention – Visit a clinic or emergency room to assess injuries and collect physical evidence. Timely exams can also provide important documentation.
Report the Incident – Contact law enforcement or file a report with a trusted authority such as HR or a supervisor.
Document Everything – Save digital evidence, such as texts or emails, and write down your recollection of events while they’re fresh.
Reach Out for Legal Support – An attorney can help you understand your options and preserve your legal rights.

We offer a safe and respectful environment where you can tell your story without judgment.

Your Rights as a Survivor in Florida

Under Florida civil law, you have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit for damages related to sexual abuse. This is separate from criminal charges and can include a broader scope of liability.

You may be entitled to compensation for:

Medical and psychological treatment – Including hospital care, therapy, medication, and long-term mental health support.
Pain and suffering – Emotional and physical anguish directly caused by the abuse.
Emotional trauma – Effects such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, or self-esteem issues.
Lost income or job opportunities – Financial disruption due to leaving a job, inability to work, or career setbacks.
Punitive damages – Monetary penalties against the offender or institution, designed to punish and deter similar future conduct.

Florida law (SB 1794) also allows survivors of child sexual abuse to pursue civil claims at any time, with no statute of limitations. Adult survivors typically have 4 years from the date of discovery.

Types of Civil Damages Available to Sexual Abuse Survivors

Damage Type	Description	Legal Relevance
Medical Expenses	Costs related to physical injuries, exams, and long-term treatments	Compensatory – direct reimbursement for out-of-pocket costs
Emotional Distress	Compensation for PTSD, anxiety, depression, and related conditions	Non-economic damages allowed in most abuse cases
Loss of Earnings	Missed workdays, reduced earning potential, or job loss	Often substantiated with vocational and economic expert testimony
Loss of Consortium	Harm to relationships, including with spouse or children	Recognized under Florida tort law in many abuse cases
Punitive Damages	Intended to punish the defendant and deter similar misconduct	Applicable in cases of gross negligence or intentional harm

Civil vs. Criminal Sexual Abuse Cases

It’s important to understand the difference:

Criminal Cases: Prosecuted by the state to punish the offender. Penalties include jail time, fines, and sex offender registration.
Civil Lawsuits: Filed by the survivor to seek financial compensation and public acknowledgment. These cases can include broader discovery and institution-level liability.

You can pursue both, whether or not a conviction occurs. Civil actions often uncover more detailed information and give survivors greater control.

For more info, visit our Personal Injury, Medical Malpractice, or Slip & Fall practice area pages.

Why Choose Rafaeli Law PLLC as Your Personal Injury Lawyer

Experienced Litigators – We are trial-tested and unafraid to go to court, taking on powerful institutions or individuals.
Personalized Representation – Each case is treated with dignity, respect, and attention to the survivor’s emotional needs.
Local Knowledge of Miami Courts & Institutions – With decades of experience in South Florida legal systems, we know how to build winning strategies.
Access to Expert Witnesses & Medical Professionals – We use evidence from trauma therapists, forensic experts, and financial professionals to prove your claim.
No Fees Unless We Win – We take all cases on a contingency basis to minimize risk and cost for survivors.

Explore our Case Results, meet our Attorneys, and read Testimonials from clients who found support and justice.

Who Can Be Held Liable?

In a civil sexual abuse case, multiple parties may be responsible:

The individual abuser – The person who committed the act, regardless of criminal conviction.
The employer or institution – Workplaces, churches, schools, or hospitals may be liable for negligence or cover-ups.
Supervisors or staff who ignored warning signs – Failure to act can create legal liability for enabling abuse.

We help clients investigate, gather evidence, and uncover patterns of negligence.

Testimonials

What Our Clients Are Saying

Hear from the clients who trusted us to fight for their justice—and found peace, resolution, and results.

Rafaeli Law is top-notch! From the very first call, their team was professional, responsive, and clearly knew what they were doing. They didn’t waste any time — they moved fast, kept me informed, and went after results with real determination. You can tell they’re go-getters who truly care about their clients. If you need a law firm that’s sharp, efficient, and fights for you, I highly recommend Rafaeli Law.

Maurice M.

Kerollos A.

Can't say enough good things about Rafaeli Law. Their team is incredibly professional, responsive, and genuinely committed to helping you through every step of the process. Their attention to detail and dedication to achieving the best possible outcome truly sets them apart. If you're looking for a trustworthy, knowledgeable, and results-driven legal team, Rafaeli Law is the place to go.

Heather H.

I had a great experience with Rafaeli Law after my car accident. They were professional, responsive and always made sure I understood each step of the process. A special thank you to Jindy - she was absolutely amazing. She was kind, patient and incredibly helpful every time I had questions or concerns. I highly recommend them to anyone who needs legal help after an accident.

Lorena Z.

Rafaeli Law, not only took the time to really listen to my situation but made me feel like they truly listened so they could understand and do the best they possibly could in asserting my case. In every step of the process they communicated with me. If I ever need a lawyer in the future I will be reaching out to them and will be recommending them to my friends and family.

Vanessa C.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do immediately after experiencing sexual abuse?

Secure your safety, get medical attention, report the abuse, document the incident, and contact an attorney as soon as possible.

2. Is there a time limit to file a sexual abuse lawsuit in Florida?

Yes. Adult survivors usually have 4 years from discovery. However, child survivors now have unlimited time due to Florida SB 1794.

3. Can I sue even if the abuser wasn't convicted criminally?

Yes. Civil lawsuits have a lower burden of proof and can proceed regardless of criminal trial outcomes.

4. What compensation can I receive as a survivor?

Compensation may cover therapy, medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, and punitive damages for egregious conduct.

5. Can Rafaeli Law keep my identity private during a case?

Yes. We treat every case with the utmost confidentiality and offer discreet representation to protect your privacy.

6. What if the abuse happened years ago?

You may still be eligible to file, depending on your age and when you discovered the abuse. Contact us to evaluate your case.

7. Who can be held liable in my sexual abuse claim?

In addition to the abuser, employers, institutions, or supervisors who enabled or ignored abuse may also be liable.

8. How do I prove sexual abuse occurred?

Documentation, medical records, digital evidence, and expert testimony all play critical roles in proving your civil case.

9. Does Rafaeli Law charge upfront fees?

No. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Schedule a Consultation

Get a Free Consultation

If you are facing a personal injury or insurance dispute, Rafaeli Law PLLC is here to help. We are dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you secure the compensation you deserve.

1500 Weston Rd Suite 200, Weston, FL 33326

info@rafaelilaw.com

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