Sexual Abuse Claims Solicitors — Scotland

If you have experienced sexual abuse, starting the legal process to claim compensation can feel overwhelming and emotionally challenging. No legal claim will ever erase the trauma and harm you have experienced, but it may help you to secure the compensation you deserve and move forward. At Watermans, our sexual abuse claims solicitors are here to guide you through every step.  

Claims Calculator Start your claim

Straightforward Experience

“I have had a thoroughly straightforward, hassle-free experience. I was kept informed every step of the way, without query, about the progress of my case.”

J Logan, Personal Injury Claim

The Short of It

  • Suffering from sexual abuse causes severe emotional and physical harm.

    You are entitled to make an abuse claim.

  • While no amount of money can undo the past, obtaining compensation

    can help rebuild your life. 

  • Our personal injury lawyers

    have experience in handling physical and child sexual abuse claims with compassion and discretion.

  • Everything we do at Watermans is about getting you the resolution you need

    and providing straightforward legal advice. It should be that simple. 

    • The Long of It

    Sexual abuse cases

    Sexual abuse claims

    If you or a loved one has been sexually abused, it’s essential to speak to a solicitor with specialist knowledge in these deeply sensitive matters. Victims of sexual abuse are often left feeling physically hurt, emotionally vulnerable, violated and unsure of what to do next — but we are here to help.

    Our lawyers for sexual abuse offer clear legal guidance and can connect you to dedicated support organisations to aid your recovery. Whether the abuse suffered was recent or historic, we’ll help you claim through civil courts, the Criminal Injury Compensation Authority (CICA) or other appropriate routes.

    Recovery from sexual abuse is a deeply personal journey, often marked by uncertainty and emotional complexity. Our dedicated sexual abuse lawyers are here to support you every step of the way, guiding you through each stage of your compensation claim. We’ll stand by your side as you pursue justice against those responsible.

    Types of Sexual Abuse Claims 

    We can help with various types of sexual abuse compensation claims, including:

    • Childhood abuse: These cases can involve abuse in care homes, schools, or youth clubs.
    • Sexual assault: This covers sexual offences against both adults and children, resulting in emotional trauma and physical injuries.
    • Claims against institutions: These can be made against social services, employers, or organisations linked to the perpetrator.
    • Claims against individual abusers: You deserve justice against those who directly committed the sexual offences, including cases involving foster parents.
    • Historical sexual abuse claims: Our abuse team handles cases where the limitation period may be extended in certain circumstances.
    • Claims for vulnerable individuals: We assist in cases for vulnerable adults, such as the elderly, those with reduced mental ability, or disabilities in care settings.

    We know every sexual assault case is different. That’s why we treat each claim on a case-by-case basis, with confidentiality and respect for your privacy and situation. Our personal injury team takes the time to understand your experiences and help you pursue compensation for sexual assault and child abuse claims.

    Making a Claim

    How do I make a sexual abuse claim?

    Sexual abuse claims are highly complex and emotional issues. Survivors of abuse are incredibly brave to stand up against their abuser, and it is your human right to seek compensation for the harm suffered.

    Our lawyers for sexual abuse cases will take care of the legal proceedings so you can focus on recovery and reclaiming your life.

    The process for sexual abuse compensation claims proceeds as follows: 

    • Initial consultation: Our solicitors will listen to your story with empathy and discretion, explaining the claims process and your options.
    • Gathering evidence: We’ll help collect necessary documentation, including medical records, witness statements, and any reports from your local authority, police or social worker.
    • Medical assessment: We may consult medical experts to document the physical and psychological impact of the abuse.
    • Calculating compensation: Our experienced lawyers will work to ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible for your suffering.
    • Negotiation or court action: We’ll negotiate with the responsible parties or their insurers. If necessary, we’ll represent you in court to make a claim.
    • Resolution: We strive to resolve your case efficiently, securing compensation that supports your recovery.
    • Ongoing support: Understanding that abuse varies widely, we offer further advice and support throughout your legal journey.

    We take on most claims through our no-win, no-fee agreement, meaning there’s no financial risk involved if your case is unsuccessful. This enables survivors to access legal representation without worrying about upfront legal fees.

    How much compensation?

    How much compensation can I claim for a sexual abuse claim?

    As with all compensation claims, the amount awarded varies depending on the details of each case. We conduct a thorough investigation for each case to ensure we get the maximum compensation possible.

    You may receive compensation for the following:

    • Psychological harm: This includes the emotional trauma and mental health impacts resulting from the abuse. This often forms a significant part of the claim.
    • Physical injuries: If applicable, compensation for any bodily harm caused by the physical abuse.
    • Financial losses: Reimbursement for loss of earnings if the abuse has affected your ability to work, both past and future.
    • Treatment costs: Coverage for expenses related to counselling, therapy, or other treatments related to the effects of the abuse.
    • Care costs: Compensation for any care or assistance you’ve required due to the abuse.

    While financial compensation will never remove the effects of sexual abuse, it can provide meaningful support as you work toward healing. Personal injury claims are designed to help you improve aspects of your life and enable your steps toward recovery and stability.

    Why Watermans?

    Why should I choose Watermans to pursue my claim?

    At Watermans, we understand the severity of your situation. Suffering from abuse is harrowing, and the mental scars last a lifetime. Our specialists have a long-standing reputation for handling high-profile cases and sensitive claims with expertise and care. We are dedicated to helping you get justice and the compensation you deserve.

    Trusted Personal Injury Solicitors in Scotland

    Our personal injury solicitors know how important it is for you to trust your legal team. That’s why we offer straightforward, clear legal advice so that you are fully informed every step of the way. Each lawyer on our team is committed to seeking the best possible resolution for you and handles all information related to your case with sensitivity and care.

    We represent thousands of clients throughout Scotland each year, securing millions of pounds in compensation for our clients.  We work hard to protect children, support survivors and help you get the justice you deserve.

    FAQs About Sexual Abuse Compensation Claims

    In most cases, there’s a three-year time limit from the date of the incident to make a civil claim. However, if a minor suffered the abuse, there is no time limit. There may be extensions to this time limit, so it’s recommended to consult with our sexual abuse solicitors at Watermans for an expert opinion on the best course of action. We can advise you as to whether you have a valid claim.

    There are other ways of making sexual abuse claims, such as the Government’s REDRESS scheme and the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). At Watermans, we’ll advise on the best course of action for pursuing compensation.

    Not necessarily. Many sexual abuse claims are settled without a court hearing. Our priority is to resolve your claim without causing additional distress. If criminal proceedings are ongoing, we can advise on pursuing a civil claim in parallel.

    However, in certain circumstances, a hearing may be necessary. If that happens, our team will support you every step of the way, ensuring your voice is heard with dignity and respect.

    Yes. Many claims are made against individuals or a public authority, such as social services, care institutions, or the local authority responsible for your welfare.

    Seeking compensation for sexual abuse can be daunting, but you don’t have to face it alone.
    Contact our experienced sexual abuse claims solicitors to get the justice you deserve.

    How much could you claim?

    The figures quoted are a rough guide to show you the amount you could receive as compensation for your injury. Our solicitors will advise you in more detail about your specific claim.

    Reset Calculator

    Your claim could be worth...

    Claim Worth

    The figures quoted are a rough guide to show you the amount you could receive as compensation for your injury. Our solicitors will advise you in more detail about your specific claim.

    Return to calculator

    Get in touch with us

    Everything we do at Watermans is about getting you the resolution you need and making that process straightforward. Start the process by sending us your details below or calling us on 0131 555 7055

    Our personal injury claims expert

    “Making a claim for compensation can be such a daunting process for people, so I try to make it as straightforward and easy to understand as I can for them.”

    Susanne McGraw, Head of Personal Injury

    Related Help & Advice

    View all articles