Authority Abuse

Authority Abuse Lawsuits 

Authority abuse usually involves a sexual relationship between a professional and a patient, client, or student. Authority abuse, such as sexual contact between a therapist, physician, lawyer, clergy, educator, law enforcement officer or other authority figure and the victim, is considered unethical and may be grounds for an authority abuse lawsuit. Authority abuse does not have to involve sexual contact, but may exploit the client's trust, emotional dependency or their need for the professional's help.

Attorneys Who Handle Authority Abuse Lawsuits 

Authority abuse in a doctor/patient relationship is considered malpractice and may be accompanied by criminal charges as well. Because of the nature of the professional-client relationship, the professional is placed in a position of power and authority, thus increasing the risk of authority abuse. In a legal sense, the relationship between many professionals and their patients, students, or clients is considered a fiduciary relationship. A fiduciary relationship is a relationship between parties where trust or confidence is reposed by one and accepted by the other; where one trusts in and relies on another. Authority abuse can be very damaging to the victim and is unethical behavior on the part of the professional.

Authority abuse legal claims may result in a civil lawsuit or criminal charges, depending on the state. Laws and penalties for authority abuse legal claims vary from state to state and case to case. Although many victims of authority abuse never report the crime, it is a valid legal complaint that should be addressed for the benefit of the victim and to help prevent future victimization by the professional. It is highly recommended that those with authority abuse legal claims consult a lawyer as soon as possible.