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INJURY COMPENSATION LAWYERS IN MELBOURNE

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Child Abuse Lawyers Melbourne

Have You Lived Through Historical Child Abuse? We're Here To Help.

If you’ve experienced historical child abuse, our experienced child abuse lawyers are ready to fight for your rights and secure the justice and compensation you deserve.

Free Initial Consultation

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Fearless Advocates

Our experienced child abuse lawyers are fearless advocates for justice, ensuring your voice is heard.

Proven Success Rates

We have helped many survivors secure compensation for historical child abuse and other forms of institutional abuse.

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No Win, No Fee*

We believe everyone should have access to justice, and you won’t pay upfront costs or fees unless we win your case.

Unsure Where to Start? We Can Guide You Through the Process

If you’re uncertain about claiming child abuse, our dedicated team is here to guide you. We understand the complex emotions that come with revisiting past trauma and will ensure you receive expert advice on how to pursue compensation through civil proceedings or the National Redress Scheme.

How Can A Specialist Child Abuse Lawyer Do for You?

Our specialised team has extensive experience handling claims for historical child abuse, including sexual, physical, and psychological abuse.

We will be by your side throughout the entire process, from evaluating your case to pursuing a civil claim or applying for compensation through the Redress Scheme.

In some cases, you may also be eligible for compensation for crime victims. We aim to ensure you receive justice and financial support so you can begin to heal.

Michael at Desk

Our Team Are Experts in Historical Child Abuse Claims

We understand that reliving traumatic events can be incredibly difficult, which is why our compassionate team is dedicated to making this process as smooth as possible.

As trusted historical & institutional child abuse lawyers, we take the burden off your shoulders by managing every aspect of your claim.

Whether it’s through the National Redress Scheme or civil litigation, we will fight to ensure you get the maximum compensation for the abuse you endured.

Historical child abuse claims generally don’t have time limits, but the more time that has passed can make it harder to access evidence or witnesses.

Reach out to us today for obligation-free advice.

Our Services

Civil Proceedings for Child Abuse

We can represent you in civil court to claim compensation directly from the abuser or responsible institution.

Institutional Abuse Claims

We specialise in cases of abuse occurring within schools, religious institutions, and other care facilities.

Historical Sexual Abuse Claims

If you suffered child sexual abuse, we can pursue compensation and justice for the trauma you suffered.

Physical Abuse Claims

We help survivors of physical abuse claim compensation for the harm they suffered during their childhood.

Psychological Abuse Claims

We assist in claiming compensation for the long-term emotional and psychological effects of abuse.

Assault Claims

We handle a range of historical assault claims, ensuring victims of violent crimes receive the justice they deserve.

National Redress Scheme

We help survivors apply for financial compensation and access other support services available through the Redress Scheme.

Victims of Crime Compensation

In some instances, we assist survivors in accessing compensation for victims of crime where applicable.

Free Initial Consultation

Time Limits and Processes for Child Abuse Claims

In most cases, there are no specific time limits for filing historical child abuse claims in Australia due to recent law changes that have extended or removed certain limits for abuse cases.

We will guide you through the process, from an initial case evaluation to civil proceedings or an application for redress. Our team is committed to navigating these often complicated legal pathways on your behalf.

Unsure Where to Start? We Can Guide You Through the Process

If you’re unsure about claiming child abuse, our dedicated team is here to guide you. We understand the complex emotions that come with revisiting past trauma and will ensure you receive expert advice on how to pursue compensation through civil proceedings or the National Redress Scheme.

Step #1 Obligation-Free Call

We start with an initial consultation to understand your unique case and connect you with the best lawyer for your situation.

Step #2 Case Evaluation

We’ll review the details of your claim, advise you on your legal options, and guide you on whether civil proceedings or a Redress application is the best path.

Step #3 Securing Compensation

Our team will pursue your claim and, once successfully resolved, secure compensation to help you move forward.

Book Your Free Initial Consultation

Take the first step toward justice and closure by completing our form below to book your first free consultation.

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Frequent Asked Questions

Our specialised team has extensive experience handling claims for historical child abuse, including sexual, physical, and psychological abuse.

We will be by your side throughout the entire process, from evaluating your case to pursuing a civil claim or applying for compensation through the Redress Scheme.

In some cases, you may also be eligible for compensation for victims of crime. We aim to ensure you receive justice and financial support so you can begin to heal.

Institutional abuse can occur in a variety of settings, including victims of abuse in childcare facilities, juvenile detention centres, schools, private schools, and organisations such as the Catholic Church or the Australian Defence Force.

Children in orphanages and juvenile detention centres can claim compensation for various forms of abuse and neglect, including:

  • Neglect, such as lack of proper care, education, or medical attention

  • Emotional abuse or psychological harm from harsh or degrading treatment

  • Physical abuse through excessive discipline or violence

  • Sexual abuse by staff or other individuals within the institution Being forced into unsafe or exploitative labour

These types of childhood abuse can be claimed through the National Redress Scheme or a common law claim with guidance from institutional abuse lawyers.

Institutional abuse lawyers can advise on claims involving these locations, your legal rights, courses of legal action and the types of personal injury claims that can be made.

Survivors of abuse be able to claim childhood abuse compensation for incidents that happened at institutions, such as:

  • Sexual abuse or sexual assault

  • Physical abuse

  • Psychological abuse

Children in orphanages, children’s homes and juvenile detention centres can claim compensation for various forms of abuse and neglect, including:

  • Neglect, such as lack of proper care, education, or medical attention

  • Emotional abuse or psychological harm from harsh or degrading treatment

  • Physical abuse through excessive discipline or violence

  • Sexual abuse by staff or other individuals within the institution

  • Being forced into unsafe or exploitative labour

These types of childhood abuse can be claimed through the National Redress Scheme or a common law claim with guidance from institutional abuse lawyers.

The amount of compensation victims of historical child abuse or institutional abuse can receive varies based on the severity of the abuse, its impact, and the type of claim made.

For claims made through the National Redress Scheme, sexual abuse compensation amounts typically range from $10,000 to $150,000, depending on the level of abuse and harm experienced. For more significant claims, such as those involving severe institutional sexual abuse, a victim of abuse might seek higher compensation through common law claims in the Supreme Court.

To determine the precise amount of money you might be eligible for, it’s crucial to consult with experienced lawyers specialising in compensation law. Many law firms offer a free initial consultation, and some work on a win-no-fee basis, ensuring that legal fees are only incurred if the claim is successful. This can help manage legal costs and make the process more accessible.

Contacting a Senior Associate or an expert team of sexual abuse lawyers, such as National Compensation Lawyers, can provide tailored advice and support throughout the claims process, helping you understand the potential compensation payment and navigate the complexities of your case.

There are different ways to claim compensation in Australia for historical and institutional child abuse to ensure that survivors can access the most appropriate form of justice.

The National Redress Scheme was created to provide a streamlined process for survivors of abuse in institutions like orphanages and juvenile detention centres. It offers financial compensation, counselling, and support services for various forms of childhood abuse, including neglect, emotional abuse, psychological harm, physical abuse, and sexual abuse.

Alternatively, survivors of institutional abuse can make a common law claim if they want to pursue higher compensation or if the institution responsible has not joined the scheme. This option allows claims for additional losses, such as loss of future earnings and psychological impact. Seeking guidance from institutional abuse lawyers can help survivors navigate the best path based on their circumstances.

Institutional abuse and historical abuse are related but not exactly the same.

  • Institutional abuse refers to abuse that occurs within an institution, such as a school, orphanage, or juvenile detention centre. It involves abuse by staff, carers, or other individuals in positions of authority within these institutions.

  • Historical abuse refers to any abuse that happened in the past, often many years ago, regardless of whether it occurred in an institution. It can include abuse in a family home, community, or other settings.

In some cases, institutional abuse can also be historical abuse, particularly when claims are made after a long time has passed. Institutional abuse lawyers can help clarify the differences and assist with making a historical abuse claim.

In addition to sexual, physical, or psychological abuse, survivors can also claim compensation for:

  • Medical treatment costs related to the abuse

  • Psychological impact and mental health support

  • Loss of enjoyment of life

  • Treatment costs for ongoing health issues

  • Loss of future earnings due to the effects of the abuse

Institutional abuse lawyers can help ensure all aspects of your suffering are considered in your abuse compensation claim.

The National Redress Scheme offers compensation for survivors of institutional abuse, including counselling and support services. Child Abuse Lawyers in Melbourne can provide legal advice and assist in applying for redress. This scheme covers abuse in institutions like schools, orphanages, and sporting clubs.

In most cases, you must choose between a common law claim through the civil court and the National Redress Scheme. Receiving redress may prevent you from pursuing civil court compensation. Consulting Personal Injury Lawyers can help you make an informed choice about your abuse compensation claim.

The Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to child sexual abuse investigated how institutions like the Christian Brothers and Catholic Church responded to allegations of abuse. It aimed to improve accountability and support for abuse victims. Legal representation is available to assist survivors seeking compensation.

Yes, you may be able to appeal a previously received compensation payout for historical abuse or institutional abuse. If you believe the amount of compensation awarded was insufficient, you have several options:

  • Review and Appeal: For claims made through the National Redress Scheme, you can request a review of the decision if you think it was incorrect or unfair. The scheme allows for an internal review of the compensation payment.

  • Common Law Claims: If your claim was through a common law process, you might seek to have the case reopened or appeal the decision, depending on the circumstances. Consulting with experienced lawyers can provide guidance on the feasibility of this approach.

  • Legal Advice: For specialist advice, contact sexual abuse lawyers or a Senior Associate specialising in compensation law. They can help determine whether there are grounds to appeal or pursue additional legal services.

It’s essential to act promptly and seek advice on the claims process to understand your options fully and ensure any appeal is handled correctly.

Not necessarily. Many abuse compensation claims are settled out of court, especially through the National Redress Scheme. If your case proceeds to court, our legal team will provide legal representation and support to help you achieve a successful outcome. You’ll have the option of a no-win, no-fee basis agreement.

No. In most cases, you will not have to confront the perpetrator directly. Courts and the legal practice aim to protect abuse victims from re-traumatisation. Your legal team can take steps to ensure you feel secure throughout the claims process and any required court proceedings.

Although Victorian law has removed time limits for institutional child abuse claims, it is still important to act quickly, especially if considering civil proceedings.

Victims of crime compensation is available for survivors of violent crimes, including child abuse, and offers financial assistance for the harm caused.

Contact Our Melbourne Historical Child Abuse Lawyers Today To Start Your Claim