San Diego Doctor Sexual Misconduct Lawyer
Doctors and other medical professionals are held to high standards when it comes to treating their patients. They swear an oath to uphold a number of professional ethical standards, including an oath to “cause no harm.” Sadly, not all doctors can be trusted to meet these standards. Some take advantage of their positions to sexually assault, harass and abuse patients. If you are a victim of this crime in San Diego, discuss your right to bring a civil lawsuit with a lawyer at Manly, Stewart & Finaldi.
How Can a Lawyer Help You?
Hiring a lawyer to represent you during a sexual abuse case against a health care provider in San Diego can make an enormous difference to your overall legal journey. You can feel safe and protected with legal representation, trusting your lawyer to advocate for your best interests and go up against an abuser on your behalf.
If you wish your identity to remain anonymous during your case, a lawyer can make this happen. You can also have the mental peace to focus on healing and moving forward while a lawyer handles difficult legal tasks on your behalf. This includes investigating the doctor and health care center, preserving evidence to support your lawsuit, and taking on any defendant in or out of court to demand fair compensation.
What Is Doctor Sexual Misconduct?
Doctor sexual misconduct can refer to any inappropriate touching or nonphysical behaviors that are sexual in nature or intended for the purpose of sexual abuse, arousal or gratification. Doctor sexual misconduct may be immediately obvious, such as a doctor exposing his or her genitals to a patient during an appointment. In many cases, however, victims are left wondering if what they experienced was sexual abuse or not. Medical providers may assault patients under the guise or misrepresentation that what they are doing is a normal or necessary part of medical treatment.
Long-Term Effects of Doctor Sexual Abuse
Being targeted by a doctor for sex crimes can bring on a mix of emotions. Many victims experience feelings of anger, betrayal, denial, grief and fear. The trauma of doctor sexual misconduct can stay with a victim for life. Some of the most common long-term effects include:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Lasting psychological trauma
- Inability to work or make a living
- Mental health disorders
- Feelings of low self-worth
- Chronic depression or anxiety
- Eating disorders
- Withdrawal from social activities or hobbies
- Overall decreased quality of life
- Sexual promiscuity or teen pregnancy
- Alcohol or drug abuse
- Suicidal thoughts or actions
Every sexual abuse survivor is unique. No matter what you are feeling after being assaulted by a doctor in San Diego, it is valid. At Manly, Stewart & Finaldi, we understand what you’re going through. We respect the amount of courage it takes to come forward and are here to help you navigate the legal process.
What to Do if You Get Sexually Assaulted by a Doctor in San Diego
Report what happened to the police if it is an emergency or if you are in need of urgent assistance. Tell someone you trust, such as a friend or family member, about the assault. For confidential support and counseling, you can use a resource such as the National Sexual Assault Hotline at (800) 656-4673.
Go to a different hospital or medical provider in San Diego for a sexual assault forensic exam. Then, file a complaint with the California Medical Review Board against the doctor who assaulted you. When you’re ready to file a civil claim against the physician and/or health care center, contact our Southern California law office to speak directly to an attorney.
Call (800) 700-8450 for a Free and Confidential Doctor Sexual Misconduct Case Review in San Diego
If you or a loved one has suffered doctor sexual misconduct, abuse or assault in San Diego or the surrounding area, don’t hesitate to contact Manly, Stewart & Finaldi to request a free consultation. Our lawyers will listen to your story and believe you. Then, we will list your legal rights and options, as well as connect you to sexual abuse resources in your community. Call (800) 700-8450 today for more information.