Being the victim of a crime, like assault and battery, sexual assault, or armed robbery, changes your life forever. As a crime victim, you deserve to see justice done to the assailant or assailants who harmed you. If they are convicted of the crime, you may feel safer and reassured, and we hope that they are. Unfortunately, many crime victims are victimized a second time, with high medical bills, possible injuries that make working or going to school difficult, or significant loss of property. At Deitch + Rogers, we believe that you deserve the opportunity to hold the perpetrator accountable for the financial harm they caused you, as well as held accountable for the crime they committed. Contact our firm today for a free consultation with a DeKalb County crime victim lawyer.
How Can A DeKalb Crime Victim Lawyer Help Me?
Our crime victim attorneys are civil litigators pursuing a claim for compensatory damages against the perpetrator(s) of the crime and any other party that may have created conditions for the crime to occur. This could include a negligent property owner who failed to place adequate security measures around their property, for example. Who we name as a defendant depends on the circumstances surrounding the crime. We employ savvy investigators and other experts to build a strong, evidence-based case against all parties liable for the crime.
Our goal is to secure full and fair compensation for all your material losses, like loss of property, medical bills, and unearned wages, plus non-material losses, like the emotional trauma of the accident and pain and suffering from your injuries. As your legal advocate, we provide insightful advice for your situation and represent your interests in court and in settlement negotiations.
Proven Representation For Crime Victims And Their Families
Our attorneys are strong advocates for crime victims’ rights. We have a strong track record of successfully settling cases and achieving victories in court. We represent crime victims in many types of cases, but only in civil court, not criminal.
Some of the cases we represent include:
- Sexual assault: Rape and other types of sexual assaults may be foreseeable and often preventable by people in positions of authority or property owners.
- Assault and battery: Often, stabbings, armed robbery, and stabbings occur due to inadequate security.
- Assaults in apartments: Your landlord is responsible for providing tenants with a safe and secure home.
- Bar assault: When alcohol is involved, the chances of a crime increase. Bar owners should provide security and screening for people carrying weapons into the facility.
- Police misconduct: The city or county police force can be a formidable opponent, but if they engage in misconduct and you are harmed, we are prepared to hold them accountable for their actions.
We provide crime victims with the tenacious and knowledgeable legal representation that they deserve. We help you understand your rights under the Georgia civil justice system and help victims like you hold those responsible accountable for their actions. We also help you understand your options for accessing the benefits available to you through the Georgia Crime Victims Compensation Program (GCVCP), which may include monetary compensation for victims.
Support And Advocacy For Georgia Crime Victims
If you or someone you love was a victim of a crime, a DeKalb County crime victim lawyer can help you learn more about your options for seeking compensation for your losses. We want to help you. The attorneys at Deitch + Rogers advocate for you and protect your rights. Call today for a free consultation.
Common Misconceptions Regarding Crime Victims
Crime victims often face not only the trauma of their experiences but also a wide range of misconceptions that can impact their recovery and the justice they seek. By recognizing these false beliefs, our DeKalb County, GA crime victim lawyer can foster a more compassionate and understanding environment for those impacted by crime. If you or someone you know needs help navigating this path, our team at Deitch + Rogers is here to listen, provide guidance, and stand by your side. With over three decades of legal experience, we can clarify some common misconceptions that continue to surround crime victims.
Crime Victims Are To Blame For What Happened
One of the most harmful misconceptions is the idea that victims are somehow responsible for the crimes committed against them. This false belief can manifest in questions or comments about what the victim could have done differently, such as “Why were you there?” or “Why didn’t you do this?” This line of thinking shifts responsibility away from the perpetrator and places it unjustly on the victim, furthering their emotional pain. We must always remember that the blame lies solely with the person who committed the crime.
Reporting Crimes Is Always Easy For Victims
Many people assume that reporting a crime is a straightforward decision, but the reality is often more complex. Fear of not being believed, concerns about retaliation, and the emotional toll of recounting traumatic events can all make the decision to report incredibly difficult. Additionally, cultural, social, or personal factors can further complicate this choice. Our DeKalb County, GA crime victim lawyers understand that supporting victims means respecting their pace and understanding the various reasons they might hesitate to come forward.
All Crime Victims Seek Legal Action
While legal action is one avenue for victims seeking justice, it’s not the path every victim chooses. Some may prioritize emotional healing, safety, or simply moving forward without the added stress of a legal battle. Others might feel that the legal system won’t provide the resolution they need. Recognizing that each victim’s journey is personal helps us better support their choices without imposing expectations.
Crime Victims Are Always Visibly Distressed
There is a common expectation that victims will display obvious signs of distress, such as crying or expressing anger. However, responses to trauma are highly individual, and not all victims will show visible emotions. Some may appear calm or detached as a coping mechanism, while others might keep their feelings deeply internalized. We should never assume that a person’s outward demeanor reflects the extent of their trauma.
Only Certain Types Of Crimes Deserve Sympathy
Another damaging misconception is the idea that some crimes are “more serious” than others and therefore more deserving of sympathy. Every crime leaves its mark, and minimizing someone’s experience because it doesn’t fit a certain narrative only adds to their burden. Whether it’s a physical attack, financial crime, or emotional abuse, each experience is valid and deserves understanding and support.
Moving Forward Together
Our DeKalb County, GA crime victim lawyers understand that we all have a role to play in supporting crime victims and challenging the misconceptions that can make their journey even more difficult. Addressing these misunderstandings helps us all create a more supportive environment for those affected by crime. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our skilled team at Deitch + Rogers. Our dedicated support is just a call away.