If you or someone you know has been the victim of a crime, you may be surprised to hear that the criminal may not be the only one at fault. 

The civil legal system offers victims of crime a way to hold those responsible for the crime committed against them legally and financially accountable. In some cases, the perpetrator of the crime may not be the only person who is legally at fault for the occurrence of the crime, and liable to the victim. Under Florida law, we are all required to act reasonably and not negligently or recklessly in going about our lives; failure to take due care can result in liability if someone is injured or suffers a loss as a result of our actions of inactions. This general duty to act carefully includes making sure that your actions or inactions do not foreseeably result in criminal activity against another.  For example, if you own a business and there have been known thefts and crime in the area of your store, and you fail to hire a security guard, you may be liable if a customer of yours is mugged at your business.

An experienced attorney can help you understand your legal options based on the facts of your case. In most instances, victims of crime will have the ability to sue the perpetrator of the crime, but knowing if and when others may be also legally responsible, can help a victim maximize their award and ensure that he or she is fully compensated for the trauma of victimization. 

If you or someone you know has been the victim of a crime the civil legal system may give you the platform to assert your rights and be compensated for your injuries or suffering. The Law Office of Robert N. Pelier, P.A. not only has decades of experience in civil law, but is also devoted to helping victims of crime in our South Florida community.