Albuquerque Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Experienced Sexual Abuse Attorney in Albuquerque

Being the victim of sexual abuse can leave you confused, overwhelmed, terrified, and angry, especially if your abuser has yet to face justice. It’s understandable to be unaware of what your first steps are when it comes to seeking a civil case. It’s important to know where you stand, what you can do, and whether your case is strong enough to proceed with legal action. An Albuquerque sexual abuse lawyer can help you through it.

The legal team at Branch Law Firm understands how difficult it can be to move forward with a sexual abuse case on your own, especially if you have not yet hired an Albuquerque sexual abuse attorney to help you through it. You may be suffering from physical injuries and severe psychological pain while also trying to navigate the state’s sexual abuse laws. Our firm can bring decades of personal injury experience to your case and help you seek the justice you deserve.

What Is Sexual Abuse in Albuquerque?

In New Mexico, sexual abuse is defined as any non-consensual act of a sexual nature that is inflicted upon an individual. State law specifically includes criminal sexual contact, criminal sexual penetration, sexual exploitation, and incest as sexual abuse.

In 2024, there were 32 individuals sentenced for sexual abuse in New Mexico. Forty percent of New Mexicans have been the victim of sexual violence at some point, while 11% reported sexual assault within the past 12 months.

If you choose to move forward with a civil sexual abuse claim in Albuquerque, your case is generally handled by the Second Judicial District Court, which can be found on Lomas Boulevard Northwest. This is the court that handles general civil claims with no financial cap. It’s highly recommended that you hire a sexual abuse lawyer to help you develop your case, seek a high amount in damages, and hold the right people civilly accountable for their actions.

What to Do After Being Sexually Abused

The trauma of sexual abuse can last a lifetime. It can leave you with psychological wounds that may never fully heal, and it’s important that you do whatever you can to hold your abuser accountable in civil court while prosecutors seek accountability in criminal court. There are certain general steps you can and should take after an incident that can help you protect yourself. Here are some of those steps:

• Prioritize your safety. After experiencing sexual trauma, your first priority should be your own health and safety. It’s normal to feel shock, confusion, and pain after being assaulted. Try to use any coping mechanisms you may have learned in the past while you contact somebody to come and help you. You may want to contact a close friend or trusted family member to come get you.
• Lean on your support system. Remember that you don’t have to go through this alone. Surround yourself with friends, family, neighbors, coworkers, and anyone who loves you and wants you to get better. Confide in those you trust implicitly who won’t try to victim-blame or otherwise shame you for what happened. If you don’t have anyone you trust that well, you may want to attend an anonymous survivors’ support group in your area.
• Consider medical options. It’s unfortunately quite common for sexual abuse survivors to be reluctant to pursue medical attention after their trauma. Choosing to see a doctor or go to a rape crisis center can be beneficial not just to your health, but to your future civil and/or criminal case, should you choose to pursue one. Medical documentation of your injuries proves that what happened was real.
• See a lawyer. When you’re ready to pursue legal options, you should contact a personal injury lawyer who focuses largely on sexual abuse claims. Many sexual abuse survivors do not reach out to the authorities and report their assault. There are many reasons for this, including the unfortunate fact that many victims are abused by someone they know and trusted. A good lawyer can help you work through the trauma and seek damages.

FAQs

What Is the Statute of Limitations on Sexual Abuse in New Mexico?

The statute of limitations on adult sexual abuse cases in New Mexico is generally two years from the date of the incident, since a civil claim is viewed as a personal injury claim. You get two years to put together a case, gather evidence, speak with a lawyer, and file a claim for compensatory damages. If you can’t file within two years, your case may be dismissed.

What Is the Romeo and Juliet Law in New Mexico?

The Romeo and Juliet law in New Mexico is a specific law that allows underage minors to have sexual intercourse with other underage minors who are near each other in age. If one partner is 18 years old, the other partner cannot be under the age of 16, as that age gap is considered far too wide. The age of consent for sexual activity in New Mexico is 16. If both partners are near enough in age, it may not be considered statutory rape.

What Evidence Is Needed to Charge Someone With Sexual Abuse?

In New Mexico, the prosecutor needs to be able to prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. It’s often much easier said than done to totally prove an individual’s guilt, which is why the court relies so heavily on detailed evidence. Helpful evidence can include DNA at the scene, victim testimony, medical records, digital and written communications, and the defendant’s past criminal actions if applicable.

Should I Hire a Sexual Abuse Lawyer?

If you wish to pursue civil damages against the person who abused you, you should absolutely hire a sexual abuse lawyer to help you. You may still be recovering from everything you’ve been through, not just physically but psychologically as well. It’s often helpful to have a lawyer’s help in overseeing your case and filing the correct paperwork.

Hire a Sexual Abuse Lawyer Today

At Branch Law Firm, we can help you build your case and pursue accountability from the right person. Contact us to speak with someone who can assist with your case.