Legal Question in Family Law in Texas

Out of Court Settlement for Sexual Child Abuse

was sexually abused by step-father.When confronted he admitted to it & stated hed prefer out of court monetary settlement vs. criminal/civil cases made against him. How do you figure out monetary price tag?What most recent settlements for child sexual abuse can you list(w/the amts of settlement)& we need something drawn up for parties involved.We live in Dallas,TX & need someone discreet to assist & also be prepared to pursue it civil/criminal charges if he renigs.Help!Nothing to lose!


Asked on 7/12/01, 4:22 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys

Jean Sudduth Jean Sudduth, Attorney at law

Re: Out of Court Settlement for Sexual Child Abuse

Who was sexually abused? How old is the person who was abused. This really is a criminal matter. Child abusers often find new victims when the early victims grow up. No reputable lawyer would be able to say what they might advise without knowing many more details. If you are the victim or a relative of the victim, think hard about possible fututre victims before you go forward.

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Answered on 7/14/01, 12:54 pm
John Pfister, Jr. Pfister & Associates

Re: Out of Court Settlement for Sexual Child Abuse

This is difficult to calculate. There would be so many different factors to consider in determining what a fair settlement would be. Hard to place a price on sexual abuse. However, if going to do so, would look at following factors: costs to child in psch. treatment, any economic damages to child, how often abuse occured, how serious was the abuse, effect on others in family, and, of course, financial status of abuser to pay damages. I handle both family and personal injury cases if you are interested in pursueing a civil settlement or lawsuit for damages. If you want to press criminal charges, you just call the police.

Give me a call if you like to discuss the matter further.

John Pfister

972-712-9208

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Answered on 7/12/01, 9:46 pm
John Allen Law Frim of Trey Allen PC

Re: Out of Court Settlement for Sexual Child Abuse

You should be careful when negotiating a civil matter with a threat of a criminal complaint in the background. It can complicate things. If you would like to keep the matter discrete, call me at 214 559 6173, and I would be happy to discuss your options with you.

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Answered on 7/12/01, 10:16 pm


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