BACK

25 Jun 2021

Looking for a sexual offence solicitor? Look no further than ABV Solicitors where our expert lawyers are able to give professional, experienced and friendly advice and will be able to meet your individual needs and requirements.

There are a number of crimes that fall under the umbrella branch of sexual offences. Rape and sexual assault are the most commonly occurring within the UK however crimes against children such as child sexual abuse and grooming also come under this branch. Your sexual offence solicitor will be able to give you expert advice on these offences.

What is child sexual abuse?

Child sexual abuse occurs when a perpetrator intentionally causes harm either physically, sexually or psychologically to a child. It also involves sexual activity with a child. As children are minors they often do not know what is happening and do not understand that the acts being performed on them or that they are being forced to perform are sexual or abusive in nature. In addition children may be scared or uncomfortable in telling someone that they are suffering from sexual abuse. Child sexual abuse isnt always physical – it can be online also. The sexual offence solicitor will ensure that the protection of the child is paramount and therefore will do everything they can to assist and provide support and ensure that the perpetrator is rightfully convicted.

There are two main types of child sexual abuse – contact and non-contact. Contact abuse arises when the perpetrator or the abuser makes physical contact with a child. Physical contact includes touching a child on a part of their body in a sexual manner, irrespective of whether the child is wearing clothes or not. It also includes raping or penetrating the child with either a body part or an object; forcing the child to take part in activities of a sexual nature and forcing the child to make physical contact with others or touch themselves inappropriately in a sexual manner. It also includes kissing, touching and oral sex.

Non-contact abuse arises when the perpetrator does not make physical contact with the child but forces them to perform acts such as exposing the child to sexual activities, pornography, flashing, forcing the child to masturbate, and forcing the child to be a part of sexual abuse videos and share them. Non-contact abuse usually arises through an online environment. The perpetrator is behind the screen and almost all conversations will be done through social media and online forums.

It is important for parents and carers to be able to look out for the tell-tale signs of child sexual abuse as children are very vulnerable and often do not know that they are being abused or even if they do know, are too frightened of telling anyone about it as they often face threats and blackmailing from the perpetrator. The sexual offence solicitor will be able to guide you through the key signs to look out for but if you find that your child is being quieter than usual and keeping themselves secluded, going through emotional changes and mood swings and being secretive about who they are speaking to and communicating, it is essential that you seek help and assistance immediately for the protection and well-being of your child.