Can you sue someone for something that happened 6yrs ago?
2006-09-23 15:39:55 · 9 answers · asked by twigounette 2 in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
my friend got molested 6yrs ago, she didn't want to say anything because that person was a family member, she is now 18, can she sue?
2006-09-23 15:45:57 · update #1
I guess it would go under molestation, but isn't that still a form of sexual abuse?
2006-09-23 15:50:07 · update #2
Anyone can sue anyone for any reason, but most states have different laws governing different types of cases and in every Civil Court case the burden of proof lies with the Plaintiff to prove with a preponderance of evidence that they have been damaged, how they have been damaged, what it has cost them to try to fix or deal with the damage and that the damage occurred as a direct result of the Defendants Willful Misconduct or Negligence. Worse yet, as if to add insult to injury, the Defendant can ask the Court for the Plaintiff, if they do not prove their case, to pay not only Court Cost, but the attorney fees of the Defendant.
With a case like the example that is given, unless the victim goes to the authorities and at least makes an attempt to file a criminal charge, then the likelihood of winning a Civil case is highly unlikely. However, as most sexual predators are habitual and there are likely numerous other victims...as minimum, the person should report the incident to the authorities as there may already be another victim or victims that may have already come forward and this would strengthen the case agains the offender and get them off the streets from ruining the lives of others.
2006-09-23 16:28:27 · answer #1 · answered by bottleblondemama 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
normally not, but if it was a sexual assult, some states allow a person to still sue after they become of legal age.
She should consult a local attorney. The laws vary greatly from state to state and is very complicated depending on the exact details.
Also evidence will be an issue also, to prove it happened
2006-09-23 16:12:04 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
I think the statue of limitations have run out, but you could talk to an attorney to see if you can.
Why would she sue instead of going to the police? Really, no offense, but that sounds like she's just trying to get money and not justice.
2006-09-23 15:48:42 · answer #3 · answered by First Lady 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
She has to report it and see an attorney for the statue of limitation for the state in which it happened could have expired.
2006-09-23 15:56:05 · answer #4 · answered by solgiver 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
See an attorney NOW. It depends what it is. For example sex abuse that you repressed the limitation statute might not start until you remember the event!
2006-09-23 15:42:30 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Judge Judy would ask why you've waited so long and then probably throw it out... of course if it's molestation, that's another story. See a lawyer.
2006-09-23 15:48:16 · answer #6 · answered by linefan 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
depends on what your suing them for. It varies by state but most things have a time limit on whatever the suit is about.
2006-09-23 15:43:22 · answer #7 · answered by mr_fixit_11 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It depends on what it is.
It may have reached the statute of limitations already.
2006-09-23 15:42:50 · answer #8 · answered by Mister Jay 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
There is period of limitation to sue for every cause of action. Please check it with your state.
2006-09-23 16:43:01 · answer #9 · answered by Seagull 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋