ARE YOU A VICTIM OF ASSAULT?
If you are a victim of sexual or physical assault, it can be a traumatic, life-changing experience. Long after the assault itself, the psychological scars can persist, and have a profound impact on your life. We understand that victim compensation can’t take away the distress, but it can help with the healing process. Wyatts experts can help victims of sexual and physical assault get the compensation they deserve. Compensation can cover the psychological impact of the assault upon the victim, medical services, psychological support, ensuring their safety by cover living expenses and recovering lost income.
We hear you, we believe you, and we’re here for you.
WHO CAN CLAIM COMPENSATION FOR SEXUAL AND PHYSICAL ASSAULT?
Unfortunately, sexual or physical assault is most commonly committed by a stranger, spouse, de facto partner, boyfriend or girlfriend. It can also occur within institutional settings including schools, churches, universities, sporting clubs or any number of organisations or institutions.
It does not matter where, when or in what circumstances sexual or physical abuse occurred. Victims of assault are entitled to seek support, justice and financial compensation for their suffering. Wyatts lawyers have many years of experience working with and representing victims of assault, and they can help prepare your case while supporting you with respect, care and compassion.
Circumstances where people may consider making a compensation claim for assault:
- If they have been physically assaulted at a pub, club, in a public or private place
- If they have been sexually assaulted
- If they, or someone they love, has been the victim of child sexual abuse
- If they were abused at the hands of a person or an institution they thought they could trust
WHAT YOU CAN CLAIM
Victims of sexual and physical assault can claim compensation for:
- Pain and suffering
- Past and future loss of income
- Past and future costs for medical treatment or ongoing care
- Legal costs incurred
HAVE YOU BEEN SEXUALLY ASSAULTED?
Any unwanted, uninvited, coercive or forced sexual act that occurs against you is sexual assault. It is any sexual behaviour that is forced upon you without your consent, and without you freely agreeing to participate in the sexual activity (including you not understanding what is involved in the act).
Consent cannot be given if you are intoxicated, asleep or unconscious. It can also not be given if someone uses their physical strength, age, size, or position of power or trust to force or coerce you into sexual behaviour. Sexual assault can range from sexual touching through to forceful or violent conduct or rape.
If you’re not sure about your situation, one of our expert sexual assault lawyers can provide obligation-free advice.
HOW TO GET STARTED
We understand that making a compensation claim can be overwhelming when you are at your most vulnerable. Our specialist team of sexual abuse compensation lawyers have the knowledge and experience to help you with your claim. Most importantly, they take the time to listen to you, and always treat you with care, respect and compassion.
The caring team at Wyatts understands how challenging it can be for victims of sexual and physical assault to take that difficult first step towards seeking legal support and making a claim for financial compensation for the abuse and injustices inflicted upon them. We have many years of experience helping victims make successful compensation claims for sexual and physical assault.
We’ve helped hundreds of people just like you, providing each person with care, support and expert legal advice.
01
CONTACT WYATTS
Tell us about your situation. We’ll listen to you and take the time to get to know you so we can fully understand your situation, physical condition and needs.
02
YOUR ELIGIBILITY
We will explain in simple terms what you are entitled to claim based on what you have told us. Then we’ll offer to get started working on your behalf.
03
WE GET STARTED
You decide if you would like one of our expert lawyers to start your case. Then we get to work for you.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Sexual Assault
Sexual assault is any unwanted, uninvited, coercive or forced sexual act that occurs against your will. In other words, it is any sexual behaviour that is forced upon you without your consent – without you freely agreeing to participate in the sexual activity and/or without you understanding what is involved in the act. Consent cannot be given if you are intoxicated, asleep or unconscious. It can also not be given if someone uses their physical strength, age, size, or position of power or trust to force or coerce you into a sexual behaviour.
Sexual assault or abuse is a criminal offense that can be committed by anyone, including a stranger, friend, acquaintance, family member, intimate partner, work colleague, employer, carer, clergy member, teacher, or medical professional. Sexual assault or sexual abuse can range from sexual touching, through to forceful or violent conduct and rape.
Physical Assault:
Physical assault occurs when a person uses physical violence and causes injury or harm to another person’s body. A physical assault may include types of harm such as pushing, shoving, slapping, punching or kicking.
Physical assaults can occur in a range of different social settings. These could include places such as at home, in public, within a licensed venue such as a bar or pub, shopping centre etc.
If you have been the victim of sexual or physical assault, you have a right to seek justice, and to have access to legal support and compensation.
If you have been a victim of a physical or sexual assault and suffered personal injuries as a result (physical or psychological), you may be eligible to bring about a compensation claim. If you were injured in a public place, you may be able to bring a claim against theorganisation which owed you a duty of care at the time the assault occurred. Alternatively, you may be eligible to bring a claim against the actual individual who assaulted you. This type of common law claim is called an intentional tort claim.
An intentional tort claim is brought against the actual individual who assaulted you. To successfully progress with a claim as such, it is helpful if you have reported the assault to the Police, the individual has been charged for their tortuous actions and the individual has some assets to pay the compensation Wyatts will work towards securing for you.
To get started and determine your eligibility, contact our expert physical and sexual assault lawyers today. Our legal team will support you through the challenging process of seeking compensation. We will listen and respond to your situation with compassion, dedication and care.
Claims made under the NSW Victims' Support Scheme
In New South Wales, sexual and physical assault claims can also be made under the NSW Government’s Victims’ Support Scheme. While victims of sexual and physical abuse are entitled to claim compensation under this scheme, it is helpful to have an experienced lawyer by your side. A competent lawyer will have a great deal of knowledge about the rights of victims, and can explain these rights to you. They can provide you with comprehensive advice on seeking compensation, appearing in court, and lodging complaints, dispute and appeals. Importantly, a lawyer should listen carefully and compassionately to your story, advocate for you and direct you to services that can provide you with additional support.
Securing compensation for victims of sexual and physical assault can go a long way to helping them on their road to recovery and seeking justice for the horrible actions they were subject too.
Compensation seeks to help cover:
- Counselling services to assist with trauma and psychological injury
- Financial support for immediate needs – medical expenses, costs associated with ensuring safety and wellbeing
- Financial support for economic loss – ongoing medical expenses, living costs, lost income
- Recognition – lump sum payment to acknowledge their pain and suffering.
For a comprehensive and compassionate service, contact Wyatts today. We are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for you.
If you have been a victim of physical or sexual assault, the amount of compensation you may be entitled to claim is different for each individual and is assessed on a case-by-case basis. There are various factors that determine the total lump sum payment you can claim. Some factors may include lost income, lost superannuation, medical needs and expenses and the extent of your psychological injuries.
To gain a better understanding of the potential value of your claim, speak with our expert legal team today. We are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for you.
Claims made under the NSW Victims' Support Scheme
Under the NSW Government’s Victims’ Support Scheme, you are eligible to receive:
- A maximum of 22 hours of counselling
- Immediate financial assistance up to $5000 for primary victims
- Financial support for continuing costs up to $30,000 for primary victims or parents of a child victim
- A recognition payment up to $10,000 depending on the nature of the assault
Wyatts Compensation Lawyers can provide you with legal advice and assistance when you are submitting your claim. Importantly, they can assess your case and advise as to whether you are eligible for additional compensation through an alternative scheme. They can also advise as to whether civil litigation should be sought through the court system.
When making a claim for compensation arising from physical or sexual assault, the limitation period to bring about the claim is 3 years from the date the action occurred, or was discoverable.
When deciding how or whether it is worth making a claim for injuries arising from a physical or sexual assault, we must consider how the injuries were sustained, the severity of the injuries, the claimable damages available to you, and the limitation period.
To determine whether you are eligible to make a claim, speak with our expert legal team today. They will be able to advise you as to what your best options are and whether you are within the limitation period. We will listen and respond to your situation with compassion, dedication and care.
Sexual Assault
As part of the Victims’ Support Scheme, victims of sexual assault can apply for compensation. However, there are time limits in place for accessing particular forms of financial assistance. For example, if the victim is an adult, claims for financial assistance for economic loss must be made within 2 years of the incident. However, if the victim was a child (under 18 years of age), there are no time limits imposed. Given that different time limits apply for different forms of assistance, it is important that you act as soon as possible. The team at Wyatts can help you understand your rights as a victim, and can provide expert, personalised, and compassionate legal support.
Institutional Child Sex Abuse
As part of the NSW Government’s response to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, time limits for civil claims have been removed. This change to the law was brought into effect under the Limitation Amendment (Child Abuse) Act 2016. This means that you can pursue a compensation claim no matter how long ago the abuse occurred.
Our team of lawyers understands that talking about child sexual abuse and sexual assault can be difficult, and it takes great courage to speak-up. We will listen to you with compassion and sensitivity, and will support you in your journey. Please contact us today to take the first step towards claiming compensation.
Child sexual abuse compensation claims can be made by any person who has experienced sexual abuse when they were under 18 years of age, and while in an institutional setting – regardless of when the abuse occurred.
An institution is any public or private agency, association, club or organisation that provides, or has provided, activities, facilities, programs or services of any kind that allows adults to have contact with children. Child sexual abuse in an institutional setting can happen either on the premises of an institution, or where the activities of an institution take place.
If you or a loved-one has experienced child sexual abuse, Wyatts Compensation Lawyers are here to help. We understand that taking the first steps towards compensation can be challenging, so we offer our legal services with compassion and sensitivity. Please contact us today to speak with one of our lawyers. We will listen with compassion, care and sensitivity.
TALK TO AN EXPERT
You might feel overwhelmed and vulnerable about the idea of making a claim for sexual or physical assault. You don’t have to face this alone. Our expert team understands what you are going through and has years of experience helping people in similar situations to you. Let us manage your claim and all the paperwork while you focus on your health and recovering.
If you or anyone you know needs support, these services can help:
Blue Knot Foundation
Reach Out Sexual Assault Support
Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse Support Services
FREE CASE EVALUATION
MEET OUR EXPERT TEAM
Julie Wyatt
Solicitor Director
Neville Wyatt
Solicitor Director
Mitchell Broom
Special Counsel
Silvia Thompson
Senior Associate, Motor Accident Practice Leader
Khristopher Narsimullu
Senior Associate, Work Injury Practice Leader
Kirstin Hansch
Chief of Staff
Georgia Barlow
Business Development Manager
Olivia Power
Associate Solicitor
What Our Clients Say
L.
Motor Vehicle Accident
We tried to deal with the insurance company ourselves for some time before we realised we needed professional help. We met the Wyatts team and knew the experience would be positive from the start. They were honest with us, communicated every step of the way and were very knowledgeable and organised. They produced a result 20 times more than what we were initially offered by the insurance company. We can’t recommend Wyatts highly enough.
D.M.
Personal Injury
Wyatts was there to advise and help me at every stage of my claim. I knew I had a great team behind me. It was a relief when my matter settled, and I was happy with the result.
D.P.
Personal Injury
What a nice group of people that do care about you and your claim, they treat you with respect and kindness and are always a pleasure to talk to and work through whatever your matters are. If you ever find yourself needing to contact lawyers about making a claim for any personal injuries or anything else, I highly recommend these wonderful people.
C.S.
Institutional Abuse
The team at Wyatts have been nothing but golden, they have been so supportive and have really helped give me a life back. I’ve never met people that are so helpful, so kind and so genuine. The team worked hard with me to help build a strong legal case and have offered nothing but support in getting me the best possible outcome. They have really helped restore my happiness and my faith in humanity.
G.G.
Institutional Abuse
Wyatts lawyers was a great choice for my complex historical sexual abuse compensation claim. Not only did I get a result I never thought was possible, but they were professional, gentle and patient with my sensitive mental health. Although the case wasn’t the easiest of cases, with many bumps along the way, the Wyatts team had a heap of resources and people who could help in all areas.
T.S.
Medical Negligence
Wyatts took over my medical negligence claim from another firm that I wasn’t happy with. Wyatts prepared my claim for a hearing in the Supreme Court and negotiated a great settlement for me and my family. They treated me and my family with respect and sensitivity through this emotional time.
J.S.
Motor Vehicle Accident
I want to thank Wyatts for all the help they have given me throughout my claim. I did not know anything about the process or whether I could get anything at all from the CTP insurer, but you knew what to do. You have really made it worthwhile.
S.B.
Workers Compensation
My life has been one big blur the last month or so and I never expected the result we got. I just wanted to extend my great appreciation towards you. You have defiantly gone above and beyond, and I am blessed to have found such a great solicitor like yourself. You have no idea how much this money will change my life and I can’t thank you enough.
Anonymous
Institutional Abuse
My biggest fear was going to court again. Due to Camille and her team’s hard work, we managed to settle out of court, which was a dream come true. The settlement doesn’t take away the pain that the abuse caused me and what I have had to live with, but it certainly helps. An amazing outcome for myself and my family which would not have been possible without the dedication of Wyatts Compensation Lawyers.
R.A.
Medical Negligence
I chose Wyatts because they were a highly reputable firm, and I would know who was handling my claim the whole time. The directors were available to speak to me if I had any concerns. After some medical appointments and some negotiation, they got a great result for me, and I couldn’t have asked for anything more. Thank you, Neville and Julie.
WIN WITH WYATTS
Free case assessment
Talk to us today about your situation and receive expert legal advice and your obligation-free assessment at no cost to you. Our specialists know the law inside out and they will tell you honestly about your chances of making a successful claim and what the next steps are if you decide to go ahead.
No win, no fee*
When we take on your claim, you will never be out of pocket. If your case is unsuccessful, you won’t have to pay our legal fees. You can have complete peace of mind when you work with Wyatts that your case is in good hands, and we are committed to getting the best result for you.
We care about you
If you’re suffering from physical and psychological injuries, and facing financial losses due to someone else’s actions, we understand the stress of your situation. Our team don’t just provide legal advice, but also the compassion, support and care you need to get your life back on track.
A winning team
We’re proud to have helped thousands of people during their hardest moments, providing them with hope for a better future – and compensation to pay for it. With our expert legal advice and support, you will have the best possible chance of making a successful compensation claim.
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WHERE YOU CAN FIND US
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Sydney NSW 2000
Parramatta
7/91 Phillip St
Parramatta
NSW 2150
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Liverpool
NSW 2170
Melbourne
Level 19,
180 Lonsdale Street
Melbourne VIC 3000
Brisbane
Level 19,
10 Eagle St
Brisbane QLD 4000