Experienced Portland Group Home Sexual Abuse Lawyer
Portland Group Home Sexual Abuse Lawyer
Find out why we have some of the best Portland group home sexual abuse attorneys
If You or Someone You Know Has Experienced Sexual Abuse in a Group Home, It’s Important to Take Action and Seek Justice.
Goldberg & Loren, the leading sexual abuse lawyers in Portland, Oregon, are here to help. With their expertise and experience, they are committed to fighting for the rights of those who have been victimized in group homes.
Call Goldberg & Loren today to schedule a free consultation and begin the process of holding those responsible accountable for their actions. Your healing journey starts here.
What is Sexual Abuse?
Sexual abuse in a group home refers to any non-consensual sexual activity or behavior that occurs within the context of a residential facility where individuals with disabilities, mental health issues, or special needs live.
Group homes are intended to provide a safe and supportive environment for residents, but unfortunately, instances of sexual abuse can occur.
- Forced sexual acts: This involves any form of sexual penetration or intercourse performed without the individual's consent, often against their will.
- Sexual exploitation: This occurs when someone takes advantage of a resident's vulnerability or dependency to engage in sexual activities. It may involve situations where residents are coerced, manipulated, or bribed into engaging in sexual acts.
- Inappropriate touching or fondling: Any unwanted physical contact of a sexual nature, such as groping, touching intimate areas, or any form of sexual contact without consent, constitutes sexual abuse.
- Sexual harassment: Unwanted sexual advances, comments, or behaviors that create a hostile or offensive environment for residents can also be considered sexual abuse.
Sexual abuse in group homes is not limited to residents being abused by staff members. It can also involve abuse perpetrated by other residents or third parties who may have access to the facility.
Federal statistics show people with disabilities are four times more likely than people without disabilities to be sexually abused. [1]
Child Sexual Abuse in Portland Group Homes
Group homes are responsible for providing a nurturing and protective environment for children who require assistance and care. A lack of sufficient staff or inadequate training can create opportunities for abuse to happen right under their noses.
Power imbalances are another contributing factor to child sexual abuse in group homes. Many children in these facilities may have experienced trauma or come from disadvantaged backgrounds, making them highly vulnerable. Individuals in positions of authority may manipulate this power dynamic to exploit and abuse these innocent children.
Lack of accountability within the group home system contributes to the perpetuation of child sexual abuse. When incidents go unreported, uninvestigated, or unpunished, it creates a culture of impunity that enables abusers to continue their harmful behaviors.
Isolation of children in group homes further contributes to their vulnerability. Many children in these facilities may have limited contact with the outside world, making it difficult for them to disclose instances of abuse or seek help.
A study comparing the prevalence of maltreatment in foster and residential care to the prevalence in the general population suggests that sexual and physical abuse occur more frequently in residential care settings than the general population (Euser et al., 2013). Sexual abuse occurred more frequently in residential care than in either foster care or the general population. [2]
A total of 70% of individuals with developmental disabilities in group homes have been neglected, assaulted, or otherwise physically or sexually abused. More than 50% of these individuals reported suffering physical abuse, and 41% reported sexual abuse, according to a survey performed by the Disability and Abuse Project between May and October of 2012. [3]
Adult Sexual Abuse in Portland Group Homes
Many adults residing in these facilities may have experienced trauma or come from vulnerable backgrounds, placing them at a higher risk of abuse. It is the responsibility of group home administrators to establish an environment that minimizes power imbalances and encourages residents to report abuse without fear of retaliation.
Lack of accountability within the group home system contributes to the continuation of adult sexual abuse. Group home administrators must take all reports of abuse seriously, conduct thorough investigations, and implement appropriate disciplinary measures when necessary.
Isolation experienced by adults in group homes further exacerbates their vulnerability. Creating opportunities for socialization, maintaining open lines of communication, and providing access to support services are steps that can be taken to address this issue.
What to Do if You Were Sexual Abused in a Group Home
Ensure Your Safety:
Your safety should be your top priority. If you are currently in immediate danger, remove yourself from the abusive situation and seek a safe place. This could mean leaving the group home or finding someone you trust who can offer you a safe haven.
Document the Abuse:
As difficult as it may be, try to document any evidence related to the abuse. This may include taking photographs of physical injuries, saving text messages or emails that contain threats or inappropriate content, or writing down dates, times, and details of each incident for future reference.
Report the Abuse:
Report the inappropriate sexual conduct to the appropriate authorities. Contact your local law enforcement agency or adult protective services to file a report. They have the experience and resources to investigate the situation. Be prepared to provide them with as much information as possible to aid in their investigation.
Seek Medical Attention:
Consult with a healthcare professional to ensure your physical and emotional well-being. They can assess any injuries sustained during the abuse and provide necessary medical treatment.
Consult with a Group Home Abuse Lawyer:
Seek legal counsel from our experienced group home abuse lawyers. We will guide you through the legal process, explain your rights, and help you determine the best course of action. Our lawyers will advocate for your interests and work towards securing the justice and compensation you deserve.
Reach Out for Support:
Do not face this traumatic experience alone. Reach out to trusted friends or family members for emotional support. Consider joining support groups specifically designed for survivors of sexual abuse.
These groups can provide a safe space to share your experiences, express your feelings, and receive support from others who have gone through similar situations.
Portland Oregon Group Home Sexual Abuse Lawyer
Have you or someone you know been sexually abused in a group home?
Goldberg & Loren is a team of experienced and dedicated lawyers in Portland, Oregon, specializing in sexual abuse cases in group homes. We understand the pain and trauma you may have experienced, and we are here to help you seek justice and compensation for what you have endured.
By choosing Goldberg & Loren as your legal representation, you can have peace of mind knowing that you have a team of compassionate and skilled lawyers fighting for your rights. We will work tirelessly to hold those responsible accountable for their actions, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Contact Goldberg & Loren today to schedule a confidential consultation and take the first step towards reclaiming your life. You don’t have to face this fight alone.
Sources:
[1] A New Lawsuit Opens a Window Into Alleged Sexual Abuse of Developmentally Disabled Oregonians. (2022, May 4). Willamette Week. https://www.wweek.com/news/2022/05/04/a-new-lawsuit-opens-a-window-into-alleged-sexual-abuse-of-developmentally-disabled-oregonians/
[2] Group Care in the United States. (n.d.). Retrieved September 28, 2023, from https://www.courts.ca.gov/documents/BTB24-PreCon1A-1.pdf
[3] Abuse of Special Needs Children – NALA. (n.d.). https://nala.org/abuse-of-special-needs-children/
Goldberg & Loren Personal Injury Attorneys
6500 S Macadam Ave #300,
Portland, OR 97239
(971) 339-8080
If you or someone you care about has experienced sexual abuse in a group home in Portland, they may be entitled to compensation. Contact us to determine if you have a potential case worth pursuing.
We Represent Those Affected by Group Home Sexual Abuse in the Following Cities and Communities Near Portland, Oregon.
- Beaverton, OR
- Hillsboro, OR
- Vancouver, WA
- Clackamas County, OR
- Clark County, WA
- Columbia County, OR
- Multnomah County, OR
- Skamania County, WA
- Washington County, OR
- Skamania County, WA
- Yamhill County, OR
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