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Reviewed: August 25th, 2011
A Survivor‘s Guide to Filing a Civil Law Suit
The purpose of this guide is to help you, the survivor or guardian of a child survivor, understand the advantages and disadvantages of suing your perpetrator or other responsible parties in civil court.
Use the information in this guide to help you determine whether a civil lawsuit is right for you. Consult your attorney, rape crisis advocate and therapist (if you are in counseling) when making this decision. These professionals can help you determine whether a civil suit meets your needs. Keep in mind that a decision not to sue also can be empowering. Ultimately, you must make the decision that is best for you. Also keep in mind that this guide is tailored to those able to make informed choices about their own healing journey. If you are a guardian interested in pursuing a civil lawsuit on behalf of a child, there are additional factors to consider regarding the child and yourself. Consult with an attorney or child advocate to discuss these matters.
