Sexual abuse and sexual violence affect millions of Americans. According to recent data, on average, there are 463,634 victims (age 12 or older) of rape and sexual assault each year in the United States. The consequences of sexual assault and rape are often devastating. The same data states that sexual assault victims are 6 times more likely to use cocaine and 10 times more likely to use other major drugs than the general public.
Given these facts, survivors of sexual abuse need to get medical attention and legal help as soon as possible. Finding the best sexual abuse lawyers in Utah is necessary to bring the perpetrators to justice. For most people, the criminal justice system can be cumbersome and daunting. That’s why sound legal representation is essential from day one.
When choosing sexual abuse lawyers in Salt Lake City, watch out for the following qualities.
1. Experience
One of the first things you have to look for in sexual abuse lawyers in Salt Lake City is experience. Sexual assault cases can be very tricky and complicated. You need an attorney who knows their way around the criminal justice system. In other words, you are going to need an experienced lawyer to fight for your legal rights.
- When you meet a lawyer, ask them the following questions.
- How long have you been a sexual abuse attorney?
- Have you handled cases similar to mine?
- What was the outcome of the cases you handled?
These three questions will help you understand how experienced the lawyer is. Most sexual abuse lawyers in Salt Lake City will be willing to share case studies and successes they have had. However, this requires consent from the clients. Do keep that in mind.
2. Compassion
Most sexual assault victims are in an emotionally vulnerable situation. They are also in need of an effective solution. That’s why, unlike tax lawyers, sexual abuse attorneys should be compassionate when dealing with their clients.
A compassionate lawyer can better understand the emotional stress a sexual assault victim is experiencing. This helps in building a strategy that is less likely to fail.
Communication Skills
Communication skills are equally important. Your attorney needs to communicate effectively with the judge and jury. But good communication skills also involve excellent listening skills. Most successful sexual abuse lawyers in Salt Lake City will have these skills.
Having an attorney that listens to your concerns and case details can help you build the formidable strategies needed to defend you. Likewise, your lawyer should communicate effectively with other lawyers, especially during negotiations.
How your lawyer communicates during negotiations and in the courtroom will affect the outcome of your case. The more confident your sexual abuse attorney is, the better.
3. Research and Investigation
Sexual assault cases often involve a lot of research and investigation. In these investigations, the police will gather evidence and information from the victim, the suspect, the witnesses, and the crime scene. You can also bring in expert witnesses to defend your case. That’s where your sexual abuse lawyers in Utah can help.
Most sexual abuse attorneys have a network of private detectives, independent investigators, and expert witnesses. Your lawyer will make sure all the sources get investigated thoroughly. Plus, they can help find other sources of evidence and information. This is probably the best way to find something that has been overlooked.
4. Analytical Skills
Sexual abuse lawyers in Salt Lake City also need to have impeccable analytical skills. Your lawyer will need to check dozens of documents and process complex information. And the ability to analyze details, ascertain information, infer context from the evidence, and witness testimony will prove helpful in this regard.
5. Availability
It should be easy to approach your lawyer. This is a critical factor you must consider when you hire a sexual abuse lawyer in Utah. Most successful attorneys are busy and may have a ton of caseload. But as this is the person you are counting on, they need to be approachable. Sexual abuse attorneys also need to make you feel comfortable.
Fortunately, a busy lawyer can make time for you with effective time management. They will keep everything on track, such as client meetings, mediation, hearings, and other tasks. And you should hire a lawyer who is approachable and capable of communicating with you when needed.
6. Writing Skills
Penmanship plays a critical role in any practice, and sexual assault cases are no exception. Sexual abuse lawyers in Salt Lake City have to prepare motions, discovery documents, query letters, letters of demand, briefs, and memoranda. That’s why you need a lawyer with strong written communication.
Only a lawyer with good writing skills can help you prepare documents on time. Remember, mistakes in document preparation can lead to delays. Moreover, it might affect the outcome of your case negatively.
7. Familiarity with the Local Legal Community
Every local legal community has its own structure. It makes sense to hire a sexual abuse lawyer in Utah who knows the local legal community. This includes understanding how the local law enforcement, courts, and jury works. This information can help your lawyer collect important information and get things done quickly and efficiently.
8. Confidentiality
When it comes to sexual assault cases, you want your information to remain confidential. Exposing sensitive information will cause more harm than good. For starters, it can delay case proceedings or even result in a fine or misconduct. This reflects poorly on you and your legal representation. Make sure to find sexual abuse lawyers in Salt Lake City who will keep your information confidential.
9. Out of the Box Thinking
Thinking outside the box can help a lawyer find creative solutions to your case. This is a critical factor in sexual assault cases where all may seem lost. Given the complexity of such cases, the creative approach can turn the tide in your favor. Besides, it can save time and money.
The Bottom Line
Sexual assault cases are often complicated and emotionally stressful. It takes experience, creativity, and integrity to bring an assault case to a successful conclusion. So, when seeking justice, look for only the best sexual abuse lawyers in Salt Lake City. Hopefully, the above qualities will help you find one. Make sure to look for the above personality traits.
Are you looking for experienced sexual abuse lawyers in Salt Lake City? Your search ends at Carlson Injury Law. Our skilled sexual assault lawyer can help you seek justice. Please schedule a consultation with us to know how we can help.