Can I File a Civil Claim for Injuries from an Assault in Wisconsin?

 Posted on November 17, 2020 in Victimology

Being the victim of a crime such as assault, sexual assault, battery, or robbery is a traumatizing and complicated ordeal to go through. Many victims do not even realize all of their rights after being injured in a violent crime. Most know that they can contact the police and press criminal charges, but fewer are aware of their right to file a civil claim. Personal injury cases are often associated with accidents such as slip and fall accidents or car accidents; however, a person injured by an intentional act may also bring a personal injury claim against the perpetrator.

Pursuing Legal Action After Being a Victim of an Intentional Tort

Assault and battery are criminal offenses punishable by considerable criminal penalties in Wisconsin. A criminal conviction for assault or battery may bring an offender to justice, but the conviction does little to directly help the victim. If you were hurt in an assault, the experience has likely affected your life in profound ways. You could be facing considerable medical bills and ongoing medical needs because of your injuries. You may also be unable to work while you are recovering from the physical and mental harm caused by the attack. A personal injury claim may enable you to recover compensation for these and other costs. It may also serve as a means of holding the perpetrator accountable for the harm that he or she caused you.

Damages in a Personal Injury Claim for Assault

The financial damage resulting from an assault can be significant. Through a personal injury claim, you may be able to recover financial compensation for the damages caused by the attack. You may be entitled to compensation for:

• Past medical expenses including hospital care, prescription medications, doctor visits, specialist care, x-rays, CT scans, and other tests, ambulance transportation, and more

• Ongoing and future medical costs related to the attack such as medication, physical therapy, and mental health counseling

• Lost income from missed work

• Noneconomic damages such as your physical pain and suffering and mental anguish

It is important to understand that there is a three-year statute of limitation for Wisconsin personal injury claims. If you do not file your claim within this time period, you may lose the option entirely.  

Contact a Walworth County Personal Injury Lawyer

If you or a loved one were harmed in an act of violence, contact Bucher Law Group, LLC for help. We can help you understand your legal options, calculate the damages to which you may be entitled, and provide dependable legal support and representation throughout your case. Schedule a free, no-obligation, confidential consultation with a Milwaukee County personal injury attorney from our firm by calling our office today at 262-303-4916.

Source:
https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/893/V/54