Firm News

Victim blaming occurs when the blame, fault or responsibility for a crime is placed on the victim rather than the perpetrator. For example, the victim may be told that he or she could have done something differently to prevent the crime, such as being more careful or behaving in a different way. This misplaced blame on the survivor of a crime or…

It is often difficult for people to understand why a rape victim would ever protect his or her rapist. This is an incredibly complex and sensitive subject – as nuanced as the survivors themselves. There is no one-size-fits-all explanation for why rape victims shield their rapists or protect perpetrators. Studies have shown several common reasons behind this occurrence. Fear or Intimidation Rape…

Bullying is a significant problem that can lead to physical injuries and psychological harm to a victim. In today’s day and age, bullies are finding creative new ways to target, manipulate and harm their victims, such as through the use of technology. Being aware of the types of bullying that your child could potentially face can help you take prompt and appropriate…

Sexual abuse is one of the worst things imaginable to happen to a young and impressionable child. Studies have shown that sexual abuse does not only inflict short-term harm on a victim; it has lasting behavioral, emotional and psychological effects that can significantly impact child development and affect the victim for the rest of his or her life. Physical Effects Sexual abuse…

Bullying can refer to physical, verbal, emotional or social attacks against a victim, typically in a school setting. Bullying is not something that should be taken lightly. It has been connected to serious physical injuries, psychological harm, post-traumatic stress disorder, sexual assault and even suicide. Help put an end to bullying by teaching your child how to handle a bully. Seek Assistance…

Sexual harassment is prohibited by federal and state laws in Kansas. Yet workers in Kansas still frequently experience sexual harassment that puts them at risk of adverse employment outcomes, job termination, harm to their careers, and significant personal pain and suffering. Learn more about sexual harassment and your rights as a victim in Kansas during a free and confidential case review at…

Living through sexual abuse or assault can have significant psychological repercussions for a survivor. One common outcome is post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, which can have both physical and emotional symptoms. PTSD from sexual trauma can last weeks, months or even years. Understanding PTSD can help you get the care that you need as a sexual abuse survivor. What Is Post-Traumatic Stress…

Gaslighting is a form of psychological abuse that can occur in an unhealthy relationship – including one that involves sexual abuse, assault or violence. It is a manipulation tactic used by an abusive partner to make a victim question his or her reality, beliefs or sanity. Gaslighting can trap a victim in an abusive relationship and impact the victim’s mental health. What…

Trauma bonding is a dysfunctional attachment that can develop in an abusive relationship with a cycle of physical or emotional trauma paired with positive reinforcement. Trauma bonding can make an abuse victim more reliant or dependent on his or her abuser, as the victim is convinced that he or she is in a loving relationship. This can make it more difficult to…

Coming forward as a sexual assault survivor is no small feat. It takes a great deal of courage and strength to tell your story. For many survivors, the thought of having to testify against their abusers is the biggest reason why they stay silent. What many survivors do not know is that they are not legally required to testify in a civil…