Finding a San Jose Sex Crime Lawyer

As defendants in criminal cases, accused sexual offenders are tried in criminal court. If convicted, they typically serve significant prison sentences, and must register as a sexual offender upon release.  When the system works, victims may find some comfort knowing that the offender who harmed them is off the streets—but  this knowledge does not help them put their lives back on track. They typically need the help of San Jose sexual assault lawyers to pursue the compensation needed to start a new life.

Without help, sexual assault victims face a lifetime of trauma

The sad truth is that sexual assault victims can range from very young to very old, male or female, and the victims of abuse can be anyone from a family member to a total stranger. The one thing they all have in common is the far-reaching effects of the crime. Even if physical injuries are relatively minor, San Jose assault victims typically face devastating emotional scars that damage their ability to live the lives they deserve. Just a few of the effects are the following:

• Inability to have normal relationships
• Fear of leaving their homes—or the need to find a new place to live if the assault occurred in the home
• Inability to work due to fear of co-workers or outside business contacts

The return to a normal life may be possible through years of expensive therapy. Yet many San Jose sexual abuse or assault victims do not recognize that all expenses can be compensated under California personal injury law. Sex crime lawyer Fernando V. Hernandez has the skills and compassion needed to help victims take steps toward a new life.

Dispelling the myths about sexual assault and abuse cases

In some cases, victims of sex crimes are not aware of their rights to compensation under California personal injury law. But others avoid taking civil action due to common misconceptions, including the following:

• Criminal proceedings prevent civil actions.  Even when the perpetrator is being tried in criminal court, victims are allowed to pursue compensation for their losses in civil court.
• A criminal verdict of innocent harms the chances of success in civil cases.  The rules of evidence are different between criminal and civil court. In fact, civil cases often provide victims with full and fair compensation, even when an offender is declared innocent during the criminal process.
• It is too painful to face a civil trial.  Some cases can be successfully negotiated through out-of-court settlements. And even when a case goes to trial, an experienced and compassionate lawyer fully prepares clients for the courtroom. In the end, the potential results of a successful trial can significantly outweigh the stress—as long as an experienced and compassionate attorney is at your side.

Contact an experienced and compassionate sexual assault lawyer in San Jose

Even a severe injury can be less stressful than the emotional trauma victims of San Jose sexual abuse face for a lifetime. Fernando V. Hernandez has the legal experience—and the deep understanding—to help you work toward the best possible future after being victimized by a sexual crime. Contact us today to find out how the firm can assist in your situation. As San Jose accident attorneys most initial consultations are without obligation. Se habla español.