How to Civil Sue a Sexual Predator
One of the most devastating things some parents face is the sexual abuse of their children. If you find yourself dealing with the aftermath of an assault on your child by a sexual predator, you may wonder whether there is any justice for you (and your child) beyond criminal prosecution. The fact is, you can pursue a civil suit against the sexual predator who harmed your child.
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Instructions
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Write a demand letter to the sexual predator. The laws in all states require you to make a demand for payment of damages before you formally file a lawsuit. In the demand letter, set forth the basic nature of the claim (the assault on your child) and the amount of money you are seeking in compensation for the damages.
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Prepare a petition. A petition is the legal document that commences a civil lawsuit. If you do not receive the payment requested from the sexual predator in the demand letter within 30 days of sending the demand letter, begin preparing the lawsuit.
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File the lawsuit with the clerk of the court. You need to sue the sexual predator either in the county in which the sexual assault occurred or in the county where the abuser resides.
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Have the clerk put the petition you've prepared together with a summons served on the sexual predator by the sheriff's office.
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Tips & Warnings
Suing a sexual predator is a very challenging type of legal action. Along with complex legal issues that need to be addressed, the emotional nature of such a case makes it all the more difficult and painful. Understanding these realities, your interests and those of your child are likely best served by engaging the services of an experienced trial attorney.
