What To Know.

Choosing to come forward and tell your story can feel like a lot. Here is information that's important to you and your civil case that will make the process easier.

Don't Let Time Deter You.

Do not let the passage of time deter you. Recognizing the incredible difficulty survivors face in coming forward, many states have expanded statutes of limitations that allow you to file a suit even decades after the sexual abuse occurred. Some states have eliminated the statute of limitations on civil claims of child sexual abuse altogether.

Why Now?

You may wonder "how did this happen?" or "why has it taken so long for me to process the abuse?" Many survivors were victims of grooming. Grooming is a method used by sexual predators over stretches of time to build trust with a child and the adults that surround them. They exploit their position of trust and authority, assume a caring role, or become a close friend. Grooming and the abuse that follows is extremely difficult to recognize and unravel. Many survivors who contact us are just starting to process that they were abused.

Our Communications are Confidential.

From your first discussion with Kristin and Eric to your last, your communications with them are always confidential. Your privacy is paramount.

Preparing to Come Forward.

During your initial call (with Kristin and/or Eric), you don't need to tell us all the details. However, you will need to be prepared to identify who abused you and give us a brief overview of what happened.
Pace yourself. Even the initial call can be hard. Just know that we are often the first people a client has ever told of their abuse so you are in good hands.
We know your mental health is paramount. We will not ask for traumatic details unless and until we determine we may be able to help you.
We will ask you to gather as many documents as you have regarding the abuse. Don't worry if you have none; that is often the case.
Rest assured that, if we represent you, we will handle your case with sensitivity, confidentiality, and care.
There will be no out-of-pocket costs for you. If we represent you, we will likely do so on a contingency basis, meaning any costs are covered by the money we win for you.

Your Identity is Protected.

In child sexual abuse cases many courts will allow you to proceed anonymously. We know the law and fight hard to maintain your privacy without compromising your right to justice.

Know the Legal Process.

You have two primary legal paths to choose from, litigation and mediation.

Litigation is a formal process with several stages that includes testifying in court. It is public but you can proceed under a pseudonym to help protect your privacy. Litigation can be lengthy, often taking 3 to 5 years, and results in a jury verdict. Juries award money damages for the harm you sustained. They determine how much to award.

Mediation, on the other hand, is private and more informal. It is aimed at reaching a settlement through a mediator selected by the parties. This process is generally faster, typically taking between 6 months to 1.5 years. Resolution is purely voluntary and determined by both parties. If successful, the end result is a monetary settlement often coupled with an Equity Award in exchange for a waiver of claims against the wrongdoers.

We work side-by-side with survivors to help them make the best decision for their unique circumstances.

What Might I Get?

Speaking out against your perpetrator and the institution that employed them is a big step, so what's in it for you? We will be transparent with you at every step of the way regarding potential outcomes. While we cannot make guarantees, we have a combined 40 years of doing this type of work and will expertly guide you regarding potential monetary awards.

In addition, we have pioneered a special means of restitution in addition to financial repairs called Equity Awards. Together with you we craft an award, something you want from the perpetrator or an offending institution that is meaningful and will contribute to your wellbeing.

Don't Take No for an Answer.

Clients often contact us for a second opinion when other lawyers won't take their case, and they are glad that they do. We understand nuances of the legal system that other lawyers miss which means we obtain significant financial awards for clients who were told they didn't have a case.

Kristin was there for me at the toughest moments of my life. She was a fierce advocate for my case and always took the time to check in on how I was doing. Kristin changed my life and I am forever grateful that I had her on my side.

~ Jake

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