Experienced Miami Lawyers Representing Victims of Sexual Assault Aboard Yachts and Private Boats

Sexual assault is a horrific crime that can happen anywhere. A private boat or yacht is no exception. Too often, sexual assault and harassment go unreported. If you have been sexually assaulted while aboard a private ship, you need an experienced Miami sexual assault attorney who can provide you with the legal guidance and representation you need to get the recovery you deserve.

At Mase Seitz Briggs, our attorneys are experienced trial lawyers who will fight hard to get you the maximum compensation available in your case. We have handled dozens of cases arising from sex assaults at sea, which has led to us having an unfortunate understanding of the dynamics when a private boat owner or operator is responsible for the sexual assaults of their crewmembers or passengers.

Our skilled trial lawyers can fight to hold all responsible parties accountable, including the offender, their employer and the owner/operator of the boat.

Civil litigation can be complex, often involving multiple defendants. Regardless of the circumstances of your case, you need dedicated, compassionate advocacy. Our attorneys know that this may be a difficult time. We are here for you and will be your champion in and out of court.

Contact our office today at 305-377-3770 for a free consultation.

Who Is Liable in a Sexual Assault Case That Took Place on a Boat?

In a sexual assault or harassment case that occurs aboard a private boat, a number of parties may be held liable. First, the perpetrator may face civil and criminal consequences for their conduct. Second, the owner or operator of the yacht may be responsible if they failed to provide a safe environment for guests or crew members. 

For instance, if the owner or operator of a private boat failed to conduct a background check of crew members that would have revealed a prior criminal history, they may be responsible.

If previous instances of harassment were reported by guests or crew members and the owner failed to address them or take appropriate action against the perpetrator, they could face liability. In any instance where an owner, operator, or employer was negligent, resulting in harm to a crew member or guest, that person may face legal consequences.

It is essential that you consult authorities and meet with a knowledgeable attorney immediately after any instance of sexual abuse or harassment. Whether you were on a tour, excursion, or a rental yacht for an extended vacation, our legal team can help. You are not in this alone. Our leading attorneys are here to represent you.

Florida's Statute of Limitations for Sex Crimes

It's essential to act quickly if you or someone you love has been the victim of sexual harassment or assault aboard a yacht or private boat. Florida law imposes strict deadlines for filing a legal claim related to sexual assault. The statute of limitations in Florida for sexual crimes varies depending on the nature of the crime and the age of the victim.

• For Sexual Battery (Rape): If the victim was under the age of 18 at the time of the crime, there is no statute of limitations for prosecuting the offender. For adult victims, the statute of limitations can range from 4 years for first-degree felony charges to no limitations for more serious offenses.
• Civil Claims: For civil lawsuits seeking damages for sexual assault, the statute of limitations in Florida is generally four years from the date of the incident. However, certain factors can affect this timeline, so it’s crucial to consult an attorney as soon as possible to avoid missing the deadline.

Delays in taking legal action can jeopardize your ability to pursue justice and receive compensation for the harm you’ve suffered. Our attorneys will help ensure your claim is filed on time, preserving your right to seek compensation.

Potential Damages You Can Recover

In addition to holding those responsible accountable for their actions, a successful lawsuit can also provide financial compensation to help you recover from the trauma and losses caused by the assault. As a survivor of sexual assault, you may be entitled to recover various types of damages, including:

Medical Expenses: Compensation for any medical bills related to the assault, including costs for emergency treatment, ongoing healthcare, therapy, and counseling services.

Pain and Suffering: Damages for the emotional and physical pain endured as a result of the assault, including compensation for anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other trauma-related conditions.

Lost Wages: If the assault impacted your ability to work, you might be able to recover damages for lost wages, both past and future, as well as diminished earning capacity if the assault has long-term effects on your ability to perform your job.

Punitive Damages: In cases where the actions of the offender or other parties were particularly egregious or malicious, the court may award punitive damages. These damages are meant to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.

Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for the loss of enjoyment of life’s pleasures that often accompanies the trauma of sexual assault.

By working with our dedicated legal team, you can ensure that you receive the maximum compensation possible for your suffering. At Mase Seitz Briggs, we will fight tirelessly to hold negligent parties accountable and secure justice for you.

Recovery for Sexual Assault and Harassment Victims

Sexual assault is a crime that affects millions of people each year. According to the Florida Council Against Sexual Violence (FCASV), it is estimated that “1 in 6 women (17%) have been raped at some point in their lives.” A large percentage of rapes and other sexual assault crimes go unreported.

If you have been a victim of sexual assault or sexual harassment as a guest or crewmember of a yacht or private boat in Miami, contact Mase Seitz Briggs today to discuss your legal options. Nothing can completely heal the wounds of sexual assault, but you may be able to receive compensation for your pain and suffering through a legal claim.

As a survivor of an unconscionable act, you deserve aggressive representation. You need someone who will fight to hold negligent and wrongful parties accountable for their actions. We know that many survivors of sexual assault and harassment face a lifelong struggle. Coping with the trauma can be challenging, requiring the help of a professional counselor. You should never have to pay for someone else’s despicable conduct.

Our South Florida sexual assault lawyers will seek damages that cover not only your medical expenses but also your pain and suffering and emotional distress. We will fight to get you the maximum recovery. Our singular focus is on you and your recovery, both in and outside of court.

How an Attorney Can Help Your Case

When facing the aftermath of sexual harassment or assault aboard a yacht or private boat, navigating the legal process can feel overwhelming. An experienced attorney can provide the critical support you need, starting with a thorough investigation of your case. Here’s how an attorney can assist:

• Gathering Evidence: Your attorney will gather all relevant evidence to support your claim. This can include medical records, communication logs, photographs, and any other documentation that shows the extent of the harm you suffered.
• Contacting Witnesses: If others were present during the incident, your attorney can reach out to them to obtain witness statements. These testimonies can strengthen your case and establish a timeline of events.
• Navigating Legal Complexities: Sexual assault cases involving yachts and private boats often require navigating maritime laws, which can be complex. Your attorney will ensure that all legal avenues are explored, including identifying all potential liable parties, such as the boat owner, operator, or employer.
• Negotiating with Insurers and Defendants: An attorney will represent your interests in any negotiations with insurance companies or the defendants’ legal teams, fighting to ensure you receive fair compensation for your suffering.
• Filing a Civil Lawsuit: If a settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will be prepared to file a civil lawsuit on your behalf, seeking damages for medical costs, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other losses related to the assault.

Providing Compassionate Support: Beyond the legal aspects, a skilled attorney offers compassionate guidance throughout the process, helping you understand your rights, and ensuring that you feel supported every step of the way.

Hire a Knowledgeable Sexual Assault Lawyer

If an act of sexual assault or harassment occurred on a yacht or private boat, you need representation you can trust. At Mase Seitz Briggs, we will help you hold all parties accountable. We can bring a lawsuit against the aggressor and any negligent owner or operator of the private boat. If a crew member perpetrated the assault, their employer should be held liable. We will ensure that all responsible parties are brought to justice and held to answer for their negligent and wrongful actions.

Contact Mase Seitz Briggs today at (305) 602-4936. Our Miami attorneys stand by victims of sexual assault and harassment. We hear you and are here to help.