Woman settles case against her brother-in-law who sexually abused her as a child

The abuse took place in the 1970s/80s and occurred several times over a period of about four years. Her brother in law also attempted to rape the woman twice when she was about 13/14 years old.

A criminal trial took place where the abuser was tried and criminally convicted of sexually abusing the woman. The abuser received a suspended prison sentence and was placed on the Sex Offenders Register for 10 years. 

Leigh Day abuse claims partner Dino Nocivelli was instructed to bring a civil case against the abuser.

A settlement meeting with the abuser and his legal team resulted in the woman obtaining significant compensation for the pain and suffering that she continues to endure as a result of the abuser, her reduced earning capacity and the need for further therapy.

The case was settled before a legal claim was filed at the High Court. There is no confidentiality clause or gagging order, but the woman chose to retain her anonymity.

Dino Nocivelli said:

"The majority of childhood abuse that the media cover and that I represent were abused in institutions such as schools, Scouts Association, religious institutions and sport clubs.  The sad reality is that in fact most childhood sexual abuse survivors suffered their abuse by a family member or otherwise a family friend or neighbour.

"Abuse in family brings forward additional barriers to disclosure and often family members will not believe the victim even where the abuser has been convicted of abuse or has admitted the abuse. This is particularly traumatising when it is abuse within the nuclear family.

"I am glad my client has been able to obtain significant compensation for the abuse that she suffered and psychological impact that this continues to have on her life. 

"If anyone has suffered childhood sexual abuse, please know that you are not alone and that a sense of justice can be obtained even if the abuse took place many years ago."