In Need of a Trusted Sexual Abuse Attorney in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina?
Protecting Survivors and Pursuing Justice with Compassion and Strength
Sexual abuse is one of the most devastating crimes a person can experience. It shatters trust, invades personal safety, and leaves lasting emotional and physical scars. In communities like Myrtle Beach, where millions visit every year and residents work across hospitality, education, healthcare, and tourism, cases of sexual misconduct and assault often occur in places where safety should be guaranteed.
At David W. Martin Law Group, our Horry County sexual abuse attorneys represent survivors who have been harmed by individuals, institutions, and organizations that failed to protect them in South Carolina. We understand that no two cases are the same and that survivors need both legal guidance and compassionate support. Our mission is to help you take back your power, hold your abuser accountable, and secure the justice and compensation you deserve.
Understanding Sexual Abuse Under South Carolina Law
Sexual abuse can take many forms. Under South Carolina law, it generally refers to any unwanted sexual contact, behavior, or exploitation that occurs without consent. This can include acts of sexual assault, rape, molestation, or coercion, as well as non-physical misconduct such as exposure or harassment.
Both criminal and civil laws protect victims of sexual abuse. The criminal justice system seeks to punish offenders, while civil claims allow survivors to seek financial compensation for the harm they suffered. Our firm handles the civil side of these cases, focusing on accountability and recovery for survivors while cooperating with law enforcement and prosecutors when appropriate.
Examples of sexual abuse cases we handle include:
- Assault or rape by an acquaintance, employer, coworker, or stranger.
- Abuse by teachers, coaches, clergy members, or healthcare professionals.
- Misconduct at schools, churches, youth organizations, and summer camps.
- Sexual assault or harassment in hotels, resorts, or vacation rentals.
- Abuse involving minors, including child molestation and exploitation.
These cases require experienced, trauma-informed attorneys who understand both the sensitivity of the situation and the complexity of the legal process.
Sexual Abuse in Myrtle Beach and Horry County
Myrtle Beach’s tourism-driven economy brings millions of visitors to Horry County each year. With a population of just over 35,000 residents and more than 20 million annual visitors, the city experiences higher rates of transient crime, including sexual misconduct in hotels, bars, rideshare vehicles, and short-term rental properties.
According to data from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), sexual assault reports in Horry County remain among the highest in the state. While many cases involve strangers, others occur in settings where victims personally know the offender – a teacher, coworker, medical professional, or trusted authority figure.
Our Myrtle Beach attorneys know how to navigate these sensitive cases, investigating incidents that occur in private homes, workplaces, and public establishments. We hold both individuals and institutions accountable when their negligence enables abuse.
Who Can Be Held Responsible
Civil sexual abuse claims are not limited to pursuing the perpetrator alone. Many survivors also have claims against third parties whose negligence allowed the abuse to occur or continue.
Liable parties may include:
- Employers or businesses that failed to conduct background checks or ignored reports of misconduct.
- Schools and universities that failed to protect students from known predators.
- Religious organizations that covered up or concealed abuse.
- Hotels, resorts, or rental property owners that did not provide adequate security.
- Medical institutions that ignored patient complaints or failed to supervise staff.
Our firm investigates all potential avenues for liability. By exposing the systems that failed to prevent abuse, we help survivors find justice and prevent future harm to others.
The Lasting Impact of Sexual Abuse
The effects of sexual abuse extend far beyond the physical trauma. Survivors often struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and difficulty trusting others. These emotional wounds can affect relationships, employment, and overall quality of life.
Financial consequences can also be significant. Many victims face medical bills, therapy expenses, or lost wages if they are unable to work during recovery. Civil claims help address these damages and provide the financial support needed for healing and stability.
Compensation in a sexual abuse case may include:
- Medical and psychological treatment costs.
- Pain and suffering.
- Lost income or loss of earning potential.
- Emotional distress and mental anguish.
- Loss of enjoyment of life.
- Punitive damages, when appropriate, to punish and deter misconduct.
Our attorneys carefully evaluate each case to ensure that every aspect of the survivor’s suffering – emotional, physical, and financial – is fully recognized and valued.
Statute of Limitations for Sexual Abuse Cases
South Carolina law allows survivors of sexual abuse to bring civil claims within a specific time frame, known as the statute of limitations. However, the law recognizes that many victims are unable to come forward immediately. For that reason, the deadline may be extended depending on the victim’s age, discovery of the abuse, or whether the conduct involved fraud or concealment. For cases involving minors, the statute typically begins once the victim reaches adulthood. Our attorneys help survivors understand how these laws apply to their unique circumstances and whether exceptions may allow them to file a claim even years after the abuse occurred.
Taking the First Step Toward Justice
Coming forward about sexual abuse is one of the most challenging decisions a person can make. Many survivors fear retaliation, disbelief, or public exposure. Others simply do not know where to begin. At David W. Martin Law Group, we create a safe, confidential environment where you can share your story on your terms.
When you are ready, our legal team can:
- Explain your rights under South Carolina law.
- Help you decide whether to pursue a civil claim, a criminal complaint, or both.
- Preserve and collect crucial evidence before it disappears.
- Work with investigators and mental health experts to build a strong case.
- Handle all communication with opposing parties and insurance companies.
Our attorneys provide discreet, respectful representation designed to protect your privacy and restore your sense of control.
How Sexual Abuse Cases Are Proven
Building a civil sexual abuse case requires careful attention to evidence, credibility, and timing. We collaborate with experienced investigators, forensic experts, and trauma specialists to establish what happened and how it has impacted your life.
Evidence may include:
- Police or hospital reports.
- Witness statements.
- DNA or physical evidence.
- Medical and counseling records.
- Emails, messages, or digital communication.
- Prior complaints or disciplinary actions against the perpetrator.
Even when criminal charges are not filed, the civil justice system can still hold abusers and enablers financially responsible. The burden of proof in a civil case is lower than in a criminal case. This means survivors can often achieve justice through civil litigation even when prosecutors decline to bring charges.
Why Local Representation Matters
Sexual abuse cases in Horry County often involve local businesses, schools, and institutions familiar to the community. Having an attorney who understands Myrtle Beach’s unique environment and its legal landscape can make a significant difference. Our team is familiar with the procedures of the Horry County Judicial Center, the tendencies of local courts, and the strategies used by insurance defense firms. We combine that local insight with a commitment to protecting survivors and ensuring their voices are heard in every stage of the process.
Standing Beside Survivors in Myrtle Beach
Survivors of sexual abuse deserve justice, closure, and the chance to rebuild their lives free from fear or shame. At David W. Martin Law Group, we know that pursuing a claim is not only about financial recovery. It is about truth, dignity, and accountability. Our attorneys represent clients across Myrtle Beach and surrounding communities with compassion, discretion, and strength. Whether the abuse occurred recently or many years ago, we are here to listen, support, and advocate for you.
You are not alone. With the right legal team by your side, you can take back your voice and hold those who harmed you accountable. Call (854) 854-5623 today to learn more.
