Pursue justice with Porters Lawyers

We have been dedicated to helping survivors of institutional child sexual abuse for over 20 years.

Jason Parkinson - Porters Lawyers Principal
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Our areas of expertise

Advocating for clergy abuse survivors, we provide comprehensive legal support to those harmed in institutional settings, ensuring justice and empowerment.

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Championing the cause of those abused in youth detention and children’s homes, we fight for justice against a backdrop of widespread institutional abuse in Australia.

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Taking legal action on behalf of individuals sexually abused in schools by faculty members, we strive for justice across all Australian States and Territories.

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Representing past Australian Defence Force members, we address claims of sexual abuse and mistreatment during their service as child recruits and apprentices.

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With over 20 years of experience advocating for survivors of institutional child sexual abuse, Porters Lawyers is well-equipped to assist you in your pursuit of justice against any Australian institution.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the costs associated with pursuing a sexual abuse compensation claim?2024-04-03T01:59:20+00:00

We operate on a no win, no fee basis, meaning you will not be financially out of pocket if compensation isn’t achieved.

Are there time limits for making a sexual abuse compensation claim?2024-04-03T01:58:43+00:00

Many adult survivors of child sexual abuse assume it’s too late to seek compensation. However, there’s no time limit for bringing a claim if you were abused as a child.

Ordinarily, personal injury claims expire within three years. However, the law changed in 2016, removing time limits for child abuse victims. This change applies retrospectively, meaning there’s no restriction on when the abuse occurred as long as it happened before you turned eighteen.

For previously time-barred claims, the legislation also provides an opportunity to reassert them. This exemption doesn’t extend to settled cases or those already awarded compensation by a court. Nonetheless, it removes a significant hurdle for unresolved cases. Our lawyers are actively involved in advocating for further reforms in this area, aiming to provide justice for survivors.

How do we prove sexual abuse?2024-04-03T01:57:33+00:00

The approach to proving sexual abuse depends on the legal cause of action and the potential defendant involved.

When taking legal action against an institution, we focus on establishing negligence under the Civil Law (Wrongs Act) 2002, and equivalent state-based legislation. This typically involves gathering evidence regarding what the institution knew or should have known about the perpetrator’s actions, including any prior incidents involving the perpetrator and their criminal history.

In cases involving individual perpetrators where negligence isn’t a factor, evidence such as police reports, medical records, and counselling documentation becomes crucial.

Our skilled lawyers will guide you on the evidence needed to substantiate your abuse claim.

Who can sexual abuse claims be brought against?2024-04-03T01:55:08+00:00

We have expertise in pursuing claims for sexual abuse survivors against individuals and various institutions, including:

  • Religious organisations such as the Catholic Church (including its religious orders), the Uniting Church, and the Anglican Church
  • Government departments and facilities, like the Department of Community Services and the Department of Corrective Services
  • Educational institutions including public and private schools, as well as boarding schools
  • Professionals in health and other fields, such as doctors, and counsellors (psychiatrists and psychologists)
Can I seek compensation if I was abused by an individual rather than an institution?2024-04-02T13:29:44+00:00

Absolutely. We have substantial experience litigating against individual perpetrators, including professionals.

One important consideration we’ll discuss with you is whether the individual or professional has the financial means to satisfy any awarded judgment.

What our clients say

It’s now almost 9 years since Porters represented me in dealing with the De la Salle at Cronulla, they gave me immense support and guidance that enabled me to get through this action, Jason in particular was a person of understanding and integrity.
Bruce H
Jason and his team are extremely down to earth, passionate and driven to get the best results for clients. They really care about what they are doing and why, Kellie was an amazing support to us during the legal proceedings and all round superstar and just made the whole process a lot easier than it could have been.
Sarah K

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