Nashville Sexual Assault Lawyer

Sexual Assault Attorney in Nashville, TN

Anyone who has experienced sexual assault knows how damaging it can be. It can take a toll physically, mentally, and dramatically impact one’s day-to-day life. If you or a loved one has been a victim of sexual assault, you can seek justice. A Nashville sexual assault lawyer understands keenly how to help you every step of the way.

How We Can Help

At Yezbak Law Offices, we have spent the last 25 years standing up for those who have been harmed in the workplace or out. We are passionate about helping those who have been sexually assaulted get their voices heard.

Having a local law firm on your side can make a big difference because we are very familiar with the local court. Our lawyers have an in-depth understanding of sexual assault laws in Tennessee and can tailor their experience to your specific sexual assault case.

For those recovering from sexual assault, an empathetic and supportive lawyer can make a huge difference. We both have the ability to listen with care and compassion and to advocate fiercely on your behalf.

What to Do If You’ve Been Sexually Assaulted

Sexual assault is any type of sexual act or contact that is nonconsensual. This could include rape, attempted rape, indecent exposure, or unwanted touch. Being sexually assaulted can impact anyone’s ability to think clearly, so understanding the steps to take afterward is crucial:

1. Find a place of safety. If you can’t find one, call the police.
2. Report the assault.
3. Seek medical treatment, avoiding a shower or change of clothes to preserve possible evidence. The medical provider or hospital might use a sexual assault evidence collection kit, which can be used to collect DNA evidence.
4. Keep any other evidence you might have, including text messages, photographs, video, or anything else you think could be useful.
5. Prioritize your emotional well-being.  Consider speaking with a trusted friend, family member, or a trained counselor or advocate. Confidential support services are available and can help you navigate your options at your own pace.
6. Speak to a sexual assault lawyer to find out what your next legal steps could be.

Sexual assault is never the victim’s fault. If you’ve been sexually assaulted, you are a survivor, and it is possible to move forward and heal.

Your Rights as a Survivor of Sexual Assault

In the United States, 81% of women and 43% of men report having experienced sexual harassment or sexual assault in their lifetimes. Most of these incidents go unreported for a variety of reasons, but some people don’t report out of fear. According to the Victim’s Rights and Restitutions Act, survivors of sexual assault have the right to:

• Receive protection from the perpetrator and their associates
• Receive information about financial assistance
• Learn where to seek medical help, along with social services, counseling, and other support
• File charges
• Find out the status of the investigation
• Retrieve any property used as evidence when it’s no longer needed

Beyond this, the Survivor’s Bill of Rights gives you the right to a sexual assault evidence collection kit at no cost to you. You have a right to know the results of the kit, and you’ll be notified if it’s scheduled for destruction. You can request that it be preserved.

Hire a Sexual Assault Lawyer in Nashville, TN

A sexual assault lawyer can play an important part in helping a sexual assault victim regain control of their life. They are able to:

• File a sexual assault claim
• Guide you through the legal process
• Develop a solid legal strategy
• Give you confidential support
• Help you understand what type of evidence you need to support your case
• Educate you about your rights as a victim of sexual assault
• Represent you at the Davidson County Courthouse on Public Square in Nashville or elsewhere
• Negotiate on your behalf

An experienced Nashville sexual assault attorney is passionate about helping people like you seek justice so they can heal and move forward with their lives.

FAQs About Nashville, TN Sexual Assault Laws

Is Sexual Assault a Felony in Tennessee?

Sexual assault is considered a felony in Tennessee. There are many classifications of sexual assault, which means there are different classes of felonies that define the punishment. Sexual assault means that the perpetrator touched the victim in a sexual way without consent. The felony charge depends on the severity of the crime. For example, someone convicted of sexual battery could be charged with a class E felony.

What Is the Standard of Proof for Sexual Assault?

The standard of proof for sexual assault falls to the victim, who must prove through testimony and evidence that the incident occurred. Possible evidence could include:

• Medical records
• Social media posts
• Text messages
• Emails
• Police reports
• Notes from a mental health provider
• Forensic evidence
• Witness testimony

A Nashville sexual assault lawyer understands how to help you build a case to meet the standard of proof and can guide you through the process.

What Should I Do If I’ve Been Sexually Assaulted?

If you’ve been sexually assaulted, you may wonder what to do next. You have the right to report the incident and to be protected from the perpetrator or their associates. You may report the incident to local law enforcement and seek emotional support and medical treatment if needed.

A medical exam can be particularly useful as evidence in a sexual assault case. You can also contact a sexual assault attorney to find out the next steps for either a criminal or civil case.

How Hard Is It to Win a Sexual Assault Case?

Sexual assault cases can be difficult to be successful with, but your odds depend on your specific case. According to the Tennessee Department of Health, only 1 out of every 3 assaults is reported to the police. This makes it easier for the perpetrator to walk free without penalty. An experienced sexual assault lawyer can improve your chances of success. Contact a sexual assault lawyer who can provide insight into your case.

Contact A Nashville Sexual Assault Lawyer at Yezbak Law Offices Today

At Yezbak Law Offices, we take sexual assault very seriously and are dedicated to helping each of our clients seek justice. You don’t have to face this alone. To find out how we can help, contact our office today to schedule a consultation.