Domestic abuse is a serious matter that deserves the utmost care and attention when pursuing legal action. Victims of domestic violence can seek compensation for physical and emotional harm caused by their abuser with the help of a compassionate family law attorney.
Filing a domestic violence injury claim is separate from any criminal charges the abuser may be facing and can help cover medical bills and lost wages because of the abuse. A Tacoma domestic violence lawyer from Lutz & Associates, P.S., can guide you through the legal system to pursue justice for the unforgivable harm you have endured. Our dedicated and communicative legal team is ready to support you through this difficult time.
What Is the Difference Between Criminal and Civil Domestic Violence Cases?
Criminal and civil domestic violence cases are separate and have different focuses. Although the outcome of a criminal case may impact a civil case, it does not mean you should not pursue a civil case. Civil claims should be filed even if criminal charges are pending because it ensures you get deserved compensation for the harm you have suffered.
Civil claims pursue economic compensation for injuries while criminal charges seek to hold the abuser accountable under state law. Like all personal injury cases, domestic violence cases must demonstrate that the abuser intentionally caused you harm and that you suffered immediate damages as a result of that harm.
Types of Compensation You Deserve
Injuries resulting from domestic violence fall under personal injury law, which enables you to receive compensation for common everyday losses. This may include:
- Medical expenses: Quantifiable costs for emergency care, doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, and physical therapy
- Lost wages: Recovery of lost wages for time missed from work because of your injuries
- Non-economic damages: Victims may receive compensation for physical pain, psychological suffering, and emotional distress
Our knowledgeable and caring Tacoma attorneys could help you pursue the compensation you deserve from domestic abuse by building a strong case that reflects the full extent of your injuries. Civil cases are subject to a statute of limitations, which is three years in Washington state. Contacting a domestic violence lawyer in Tacoma promptly can help preserve evidence and protect your right to compensation.
The Importance of Preserving Evidence
As stated before, domestic violence injury claims must establish that your injuries were directly caused by an abuser. Since compensation is based on the severity of injuries, collecting evidence is essential to building a strong case. Our Tacoma attorneys could help you gather the following types of evidence to prove domestic violence.
Medical Records
Medical records are critical to an injury case. Diagnostic test results, X-rays, and imaging can help illustrate physical damage. Ongoing treatment, doctor visits, and physical therapy help quantify the financial impact of your injuries. Keeping track of out-of-pocket medical expenses can also help support your economic claims.
Police Reports
If the abuse was reported to law enforcement, they should have filed a report, regardless of whether charges are filed. Details of the incident are recorded, including a description and photos of what happened, the location where it occurred, and any physical injuries you sustained. The report should also include statements from victims, witnesses, and the abuser, if given. They are required to perform a lethality assessment to evaluate risk and offer referral services.
Consult a Tacoma Attorney Today to Protect Yourself After Domestic Violence
Domestic violence is traumatizing. You face physical and emotional pain while struggling to protect yourself and others. These stresses take a toll on your recovery, making it hard to focus on legal claims.
Consulting a Tacoma domestic violence lawyer from Lutz & Associates as soon as possible after suffering an act of domestic violence can help ease your anxiety. Our experienced attorneys have been working in family law for decades, and we could ensure that critical evidence is preserved and follow up with witnesses and medical professionals for a more comprehensive understanding of the incident. Please do not hesitate to reach out today for help by calling (253) 471-7774 or using our convenient contact form.
