Auburn, ME Sexual Abuse Survivors’ Lawyer
Bigos Law represents survivors of sexual abuse in Auburn, Maine, and throughout New England with a clear, unwavering commitment: to stand beside survivors, pursue accountability, and help secure the resources needed to move forward. These cases are deeply personal and often complex, involving powerful institutions and decades-old misconduct. The firm approaches each matter with care, discretion, and a determination to uncover the truth.
Led by Auburn sexual abuse survivor lawyer Michael T. Bigos, who is widely recognized across New England for his work on behalf of survivors, Bigos Law has built a reputation for taking on challenging cases against institutions that failed to protect those in their care. The firm’s approach is rooted in trauma-informed advocacy, prioritizing the survivor’s well-being while pursuing a strong and effective legal strategy.
Standing with Survivors Against Powerful Institutions in Auburn, ME
Sexual abuse cases frequently involve institutions that had a duty to protect vulnerable individuals. When those institutions fail, whether through negligence, concealment, or systemic misconduct, the consequences can last a lifetime.
Bigos Law has pursued claims against a wide range of organizations, including:
- Religious institutions such as the Catholic Church, Jehovah’s Witnesses, Seventh-day Adventists, and Salvation Army
- Youth organizations like Scouting America (formerly the Boy Scouts of America)
- Private schools, boarding schools, and educational programs
- Summer camps and recreational programs
These cases often reveal patterns of abuse that extend beyond a single incident. Institutions may have ignored warning signs, failed to report misconduct, or actively concealed abuse to protect their reputation. Bigos Law works to expose these failures and hold institutions accountable for the harm they allowed to occur.
A Trauma-Informed Approach to Legal Representation
For many survivors, coming forward is one of the most difficult steps they will ever take. The legal process can feel intimidating, particularly when it involves revisiting painful experiences. Bigos Law understands this and takes a trauma-informed approach to every case. This means creating a supportive environment where survivors feel heard and respected. The firm moves at a pace that aligns with the client’s comfort level, explains each step of the process, and minimizes unnecessary stress whenever possible. At the same time, Bigos Law remains focused on building a strong case that can withstand scrutiny and achieve meaningful results.
Michael T. Bigos and his team are known for their unwavering loyalty to clients. That commitment is reflected not only in the outcomes they pursue but also in the way they guide clients through the process with clarity and care.
Understanding the Types of Harm Survivors Experience
Sexual abuse can have profound and lasting effects on every aspect of a person’s life. These impacts are not limited to the immediate trauma but often extend into adulthood, affecting mental health, relationships, education, and career opportunities. For example, survivors may experience:
- Psychological and emotional trauma, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress
- Difficulty forming or maintaining personal relationships
- Disruptions in education or career development
- Physical injuries or long-term health consequences
- Loss of enjoyment of life and overall well-being
Bigos Law takes the time to fully understand how the abuse has affected each client. This comprehensive perspective is essential when pursuing compensation that reflects the true scope of the harm suffered.
Damages Available in Sexual Abuse Civil Claims
Civil claims provide survivors with an opportunity to seek financial compensation for the harm they have endured. While no amount of money can undo what happened, compensation can provide resources for therapy, medical care, and long-term support.
In Maine, damages in sexual abuse cases may include compensation for economic and non-economic losses. Economic damages can cover measurable financial impacts such as the cost of counseling, medical treatment, and lost income. Non-economic damages address the more personal aspects of harm, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life.
In cases involving particularly egregious conduct, punitive damages may also be available. These damages are not tied directly to the survivor’s losses but are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar misconduct in the future. In Maine, punitive damages require a showing of malice, which can include conduct motivated by ill will or actions so reckless that they demonstrate a conscious disregard for the safety of others.
Bigos Law evaluates every case carefully to determine the full range of damages that may be pursued, ensuring that no aspect of the survivor’s harm is overlooked.
Institutional Liability and Accountability
One of the most critical aspects of sexual abuse litigation is establishing institutional liability. While individual perpetrators must be held accountable, institutions can also bear responsibility when their actions, or failure to act, contributed to the abuse.
Institutional liability may arise in several ways. An organization may have known about prior misconduct and failed to act. It may have failed to implement appropriate safeguards, background checks, or supervision. In some cases, institutions actively concealed abuse, allowing it to continue unchecked.
Bigos Law conducts thorough investigations to uncover these failures. This often involves reviewing internal records, policies, and communications, as well as working with experts who can identify systemic issues. By demonstrating how the institution’s conduct contributed to the abuse, the firm builds a case that supports both liability and damages.
These cases can be complex and hard-fought, particularly when large organizations are involved. Bigos Law is prepared to meet those challenges with a strategic and persistent approach.
A Resource for Survivors and Referring Attorneys
Bigos Law serves not only survivors but also attorneys seeking to refer sensitive and high-value cases. Sexual abuse litigation requires a careful balance of compassion and litigation strength, and the firm is equipped to handle both. Referring attorneys can trust that their clients will be treated with respect and care, while also benefiting from a legal strategy designed to achieve strong results. The firm maintains clear communication throughout the case and works collaboratively when appropriate.
For survivors in Auburn, having access to a law firm with both local presence and regional reach can make a significant difference. Bigos Law brings the resources and experience needed to take on complex cases while remaining accessible and responsive to clients.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the timeframe for filing sexual abuse civil claims in Maine?
Maine has taken steps to expand the ability of survivors to bring civil claims. For many cases involving sexual abuse of minors, there is no longer a strict statute of limitations, allowing survivors to file claims regardless of how much time has passed. However, the specific facts of each case can affect how the law applies, so it is important to speak with an attorney to understand your options.
Can I bring a claim if the abuse happened decades ago?
In many cases, yes. Changes in Maine law have made it possible for survivors to pursue civil claims even if the abuse occurred many years in the past. Each case is unique, and Bigos Law can evaluate the circumstances to determine whether a claim may still be brought.
What if the person who abused me is no longer alive?
A claim may still be possible. In some situations, legal action can be brought against the institution or other parties whose negligence contributed to the abuse, even if the individual perpetrator is no longer living.
Will my case go to trial?
Some cases resolve through settlement, while others proceed to trial. Bigos Law prepares every case as if it will go to trial, which strengthens the firm’s position during negotiations and ensures trial readiness if litigation becomes necessary.
What does it cost to hire Bigos Law?
Sexual abuse cases are handled on a contingency fee basis. This means there are no upfront legal fees, and the firm is paid only if it recovers compensation on behalf of the client.
Contact Bigos Law for a Free Consultation
Bigos Law stands with survivors in Auburn, Maine, and throughout New England, offering compassionate support and determined legal advocacy. The firm is committed to helping survivors pursue accountability and secure the resources they need to move forward. If you or a loved one is considering a civil claim, contact Bigos Law today for a free, confidential consultation.