Pennsylvania Crime Victim Attorneys

If you’ve been the victim of a violent crime, you’re facing challenges that most people never imagine. Beyond your physical injuries, you’re dealing with trauma, fear, and financial hardship while trying to rebuild your sense of safety and security. Many crime victims don’t realize they have civil legal rights that go far beyond the criminal case—rights that could provide the compensation and closure you need to move forward.

At Kunnell Law, we understand that being a crime victim affects every aspect of your life. We’re here to help you navigate the civil justice system and pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries, trauma, and losses.

You Are Not Alone in This Fight

Being the victim of a crime leaves you feeling vulnerable, angry, and often hopeless about the future. You may be struggling with:

Physical injuries and ongoing medical needs
Emotional trauma, PTSD, and anxiety
Lost wages from missed work
Mounting medical and therapy bills
Fear and loss of personal security
Confusion about your legal rights
Frustration with the criminal justice system

While the criminal case focuses on punishing the offender, it doesn’t address your need for compensation and healing. That’s where we come in. You have the right to pursue civil justice, regardless of what happens in the criminal case.

Understanding Your Civil Rights as a Crime Victim

Criminal Case vs. Civil Case: What’s the Difference?
Many crime victims don’t realize they can pursue compensation through a separate civil lawsuit, even while the criminal case is ongoing. These are two completely different legal processes:

Criminal Case:

The state prosecutes the offender
You are a witness, not the plaintiff
Goal is punishment and public safety
Standard of proof: “beyond a reasonable doubt”
You typically receive no compensation

Civil Case:

You sue the offender (and possibly others) for damages
You are the plaintiff seeking compensation
Goal is financial recovery for your losses
Standard of proof: “preponderance of evidence” (easier to prove)
You can recover monetary damages

Important: The outcome of the criminal case doesn’t determine your civil case. Even if criminal charges are dropped or the offender is acquitted, you may still win your civil lawsuit and recover compensation.

Types of Crimes We Handle

Comprehensive Representation for All Crime Victims

At Kunnell Law, we represent victims of all types of violent crimes and criminal acts, including:

Assault and Battery Physical attacks that result in injuries, whether by strangers, acquaintances, or domestic partners

Sexual Assault and Abuse Including rape, sexual battery, and childhood sexual abuse (we handle historical cases with extended statutes of limitations)

Armed Robbery and Mugging Theft crimes involving weapons or force that result in physical or emotional injuries

Domestic Violence Physical, emotional, and psychological abuse by intimate partners or family members

Hate Crimes, Crimes motivated by bias against your race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected characteristics

Kidnapping and False Imprisonment Unlawful restraint or confinement that causes physical or emotional harm

Stalking and Harassment Repeated unwanted contact that causes fear and emotional distress

Premises Liability for Criminal Acts When property owners fail to provide adequate security, allowing crimes to occur

Beyond the Perpetrator: Third-Party Liability

In many cases, others besides the criminal may be legally responsible for your injuries. We investigate all potential sources of compensation, including:

Property Owners and Managers

Apartment complexes with inadequate security
Parking garages without proper lighting
Businesses that fail to protect customers
Hotels with poor safety measures

Employers

Companies that fail to protect workers from known dangers
Inadequate workplace security measures
Negligent hiring or supervision practices

Alcohol Providers

Bars and restaurants that over-serve intoxicated individuals
Social hosts who provide alcohol to minors

Security Companies

Negligent security services that fail to prevent foreseeable crimes

Damages We Fight to Recover

Comprehensive Compensation for All Your Losses

Crime victims often face extensive damages that go far beyond immediate medical bills. We fight to recover full compensation for:

Economic Damages:

All medical expenses (emergency room, surgery, ongoing treatment)
Mental health counseling and therapy costs
Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
Property damage or theft
Home security improvements
Relocation expenses for safety

Non-Economic Damages:

Pain and suffering
Emotional distress and trauma
Loss of enjoyment of life
Anxiety, depression, and PTSD
Loss of consortium (impact on relationships)
Permanent scarring or disfigurement

Punitive Damages: In cases involving particularly egregious conduct, you may be entitled to punitive damages designed to punish the offender and deter similar conduct.

Crime Victim Compensation Programs

Additional Resources Available to You

While pursuing your civil case, you may also be eligible for immediate financial assistance through state crime victim compensation programs. These programs can help cover:

Medical and dental expenses
Mental health counseling
Lost wages (partial)
Funeral expenses
Emergency relocation costs
Crime scene cleanup

We’ll help you apply for these benefits while building your civil case. These programs provide crucial immediate assistance, but they typically don’t fully compensate you for all your losses—that’s why pursuing a civil lawsuit is so important.

Why Choose Kunnell Law for Crime Victim Representation

Specialized Experience in Crime Victim Cases

Understanding Trauma and Sensitivity We recognize that crime victims have unique needs and challenges. Our attorneys have specialized training in trauma-informed representation, ensuring you feel safe, heard, and respected throughout the legal process.

Protecting Your Privacy and Safety Your safety is our top priority. We work carefully with law enforcement, prosecutors, and victim advocates to ensure your civil case doesn’t compromise your safety or interfere with criminal proceedings.

No Upfront Costs We handle crime victim cases on a contingency fee basis—you pay no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you. We also advance all case costs, removing financial barriers to justice.

Comprehensive Investigation Our legal team works with private investigators, medical experts, mental health professionals, and victim advocates to build the strongest possible case and document all aspects of your damages.

Extended Statutes of Limitations Crime victims often receive extended time limits to file civil lawsuits, recognizing that trauma may delay your ability to seek legal help. We ensure you understand all relevant deadlines and help preserve your rights.

Coordination with Criminal Cases We work closely with prosecutors and victim advocates to coordinate your civil case with criminal proceedings, maximizing your recovery without interfering with criminal prosecution.

The Legal Process: What to Expect

We Guide You Through Every Step

Initial Consultation (Free & Confidential) We’ll listen to your story, explain your legal rights, and discuss your options with no pressure or obligation.

Investigation and Case Building We conduct a thorough investigation, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with experts to build your case.

Filing Your Lawsuit We handle all legal paperwork and court filings, ensuring your case is properly presented and all deadlines are met.

Discovery Process We gather additional evidence, take depositions, and prepare your case for trial or settlement negotiations.

Settlement Negotiations Most cases settle out of court. We negotiate aggressively to secure fair compensation without the stress of trial.

Trial if Necessary If a fair settlement isn’t possible, we’re prepared to take your case to trial and fight for maximum compensation.

Throughout the process, you’ll always know what’s happening with your case and what to expect next.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much will it cost to hire Kunnell Law? A: We handle crime victim cases on a contingency fee basis. You pay no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you. We also advance all case costs.

Q: Can I file a civil lawsuit even if there’s a criminal case? A: Yes. Criminal and civil cases are separate proceedings. You can pursue both simultaneously, and the outcome of one doesn’t determine the other.

Q: What if the person who hurt me doesn’t have money or insurance? A: We investigate all potential sources of compensation, including third-party liability, your own insurance coverage, and crime victim compensation programs.

Q: How long do I have to file a lawsuit? A: Crime victims often receive extended statutes of limitations. Time limits vary by state and type of crime, so contact us immediately to protect your rights.

Q: Will filing a civil lawsuit interfere with the criminal case? A: No. We coordinate carefully with prosecutors to ensure your civil case supports rather than interferes with criminal proceedings.

Q: What if I can’t afford medical treatment or counseling? A: We can help you find providers who will treat you on a lien basis and assist you in applying for crime victim compensation to cover immediate expenses.

Q: Do I have to testify in court? A: Most cases settle without trial. If trial is necessary, we prepare you thoroughly and provide support throughout the process.

Your Path to Justice Starts Here

Take the First Step Toward Healing and Recovery

You’ve already shown incredible strength by surviving what happened to you. Now let us help you take the next step toward justice and financial recovery. At Kunnell Law, we’re committed to fighting for your rights while treating you with the dignity, respect, and sensitivity you deserve.

What happens during your free consultation:

We listen to your story in a safe, confidential environment
We explain your legal rights and options clearly
We discuss potential sources of compensation
We answer all your questions with no pressure or obligation
We connect you with immediate resources and support services

You don’t have to navigate this alone. We’re here to help you reclaim your life and your future.

Contact Kunnell Law Today

Call Now: [215-644-8508] Email: [info@kunnelllaw.com]

Free Confidential Consultation Available 24/7 Weekend and Evening Appointments Available Home Visits Available for Safety and Comfort

Book Free Case Evaluation

Office Information
Kunnell Law – Crime Victim Advocates 325 E Street Rd, Feasterville-Trevose, PA 19053
Office Hours: Monday-Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, 24/7 emergency consultations for crime victims
Serving crime victims throughout Pennsylvania

Resources for Crime Victims

Additional Support Services

Beyond legal representation, we can connect you with:

Local victim advocacy organizations
Trauma-informed mental health professionals
Support groups for crime survivors
Emergency financial assistance programs
Safety planning and security consultation
Relocation assistance if needed

Remember: Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. You deserve justice, compensation, and the support you need to heal.

Important Legal Reminders

Time limits apply – Contact us as soon as possible to protect your rights
Evidence is crucial – Preserve all medical records, photographs, and documentation
Your safety comes first – We prioritize your wellbeing above all else
Confidentiality is guaranteed – Everything you share with us is protected by attorney-client privilege