What are my legal rights as far as pressing charges against a family member who raped me?
Question Details:
I was repeatedly raped when I was a child (6-13 years old) by my older brother. I was threatened that if I told anyone, he would **** me. Now I am an adult, and want to know my legal rights on how to go about pressing charges.
I am a lawyer in CT and practice in this area of the law. As far as criminal charges you may have a problem because the statute of limitations regarding these crimes may have expired. You may however, and should call the police and explain the situation without referring to the identity of your brother. Just give them ages as you did not give me ages, so i cannot tell you whether the state is barred from prosecuting your brother. However, regardless of the state's ability to prosecute him, you may be able to sue your brother in civil court for emotional distress and asault and battery as the statute of limitations is much longer. I therefore, suggest that you hire a lawyer and explain your case. most lawyers will meet with you for free for the first time. the issue is what you can collect from your brother.

Are you a lawyer?
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