In recent criminal and civil proceedings in the news, defense lawyers and institutional defendants have pointed to child sexual abuse victim’s substance abuse as a means of attempting to persuade a jury that the sexual abuse victim is not credible. However, this argument is short sided and is often done to persuade jurors who might not fully comprehend the depths of emotional scarring that sexual abuse victims suffer. Sexual assault and sexual abuse victims often turn to alcohol or other substances as a means to cope with emotional distress. This unhealthy reaction to the abuse allows the sexual abuse victim to temporarily escape from reality and numb the pain of what they have endured. Unfortunately, substance abuse often leads to more problems, so it is important to gain a better perspective of the abuse which can be provided in the course of counseling.

Trauma therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists can offer services to sexual abuse victims to help them better understand the abuse they have suffered and help them chart a course toward recovery. As an attorney for victims of sexual abuse and sexual assault, we often work closely and stay in communication with these health care providers to ensure that our clients best interest are being served. Some mental health care providers encourage clients to pursue civil litigation as a means for gaining closure and confronting the perpetrator in a controlled environment. Other mental health care providers might opine that a client is not yet ready to engage the course of civil litigation. If you or someone you know has fallen victim to sexual abuse it is important to understand that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Every day we provide legal counsel to victims of sexual abuse and their family members and we also help them to get the resources that they need for recovery. We do not charge for phone calls, so if you have questions do not hesitate to contact Andreozzi + Foote at 717-525-9124

Ben and Nate are great guys. They walked me through the whole process, from beginning til the end. The receptionist and very nice. Answer all my questions and concerns. I will refer them to anyone. Their not like other lawyers that talk around the topic. They tell you just how it is or how they believe it will be. Thank you guys so much.

S. W.

Ben and Nate took their time in handling my case with compassion and care. I never had to wonder what was going on. They always made sure to include me in each and every decision that needed to be made before they were made. Their entire staff was always very polite and knowledgeable. I cannot say enough kind words about Andreozzi + Foote; they are simply the best!

V. B.

One of the best personal injury lawyers in the country. Great experience. Really genuine people at Andreozzi and Associates.

B. E.

Handled our case SO well even though it took a long time to settle, and STILL helps us with paperwork related to the settlement account every now and then. They were honest with us from the get-go, worked REALLY hard on our behalf, and always kept in touch with us about what was going on. So pleased.

S. G.

When you and your child are victims of a horrid crime it's hard to understand why things are the way they are. Information and answers are what you want, but unfortunately the system doesn't offer that. Nathaniel has fielded and patiently listened to a broken mother wanting nothing more than for someone to help her understand why she has no answers, and through these phone calls Nathaniel has been very informative, honest and upfront. I would recommend Nathaniel and this firm to anyone who is seeking answers, help and professionalism in a firm when going through such difficult times.

S. L.

Can’t say enough about the kindness and compassion of this law office. They helped me immensely with a difficult case and the level of support they provided me was stellar.

L. A.

It is impossible to put into words our gratitude for Ben and Nate through the most trying time of our life. As scared, confused, and traumatized parents, the isolation and loneliness of litigation are abysmal. In the beginning, everyone surrounding you has endless bright ideas and can’t say enough how you should pursue action, but then when it comes down to it, these cheerleaders are suddenly silent and nowhere to be found in what feels to be your darkest hour. Thank God we had these two extraordinary men at our side from the moment we contacted them. Their friendship, counsel, and sound resolve to do everything they could in order to balance the scorecard meant more than we can ever convey, and is simply immeasurable. If we had known how simple this seemingly horrific ordeal would’ve been with their help from the start, we wouldn’t have agonized a single minute over doing what we did. If you are in a similar position as I’ve described, take advice from someone who’s been through the worst, thankfully with the best. Call them!

E.K.

Substance abuse in victims of sexual abuse

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