Victim’s Rights
Compassionate, Vigorous Representation of Victims in Criminal and Civil Proceedings
Our firm is unique in its comprehensive approach to supporting survivors of crime. We have assembled a dedicated, multi-faceted team to address every issue you may face as a survivor.
Types of Cases We Handle on Survivors’ Behalves:
- Drunk and impaired driving and boating
- Physical assaults, shootings, robbery, and homicide
- Sexual assaults of adults
- Child abuse and child sexual assault
- Clergy abuse
- Crimes at shopping centers, office buildings, apartments, hotels, banks, ATMs, and other businesses
- Illegal videotaping
- Criminal fraud
- Identity theft
- Child exploitation (child pornography)
- Stalking
- Elder abuse
- Robbery and home invasion
If you or a loved one has been victimized by crime, you are not alone. Many survivors experience overwhelming emotions that can make daily life feel impossible. Navigating the complexities of the criminal justice system can be daunting, and too often, survivors feel re-victimized by a system that prioritizes the state over the individual.
We are here to alleviate your burden, guiding you through every aspect of your case—from your first contact with law enforcement to the day your perpetrator is held accountable. Unlike many lawyers who focus solely on civil cases, we provide representation throughout both the criminal and civil processes, understanding that your healing is just as important as seeking justice.
Your “One-Stop Shop” for the Criminal and Civil Case
Recent advances in crime victim rights now allow private attorneys to represent victims in criminal cases. While you may not be a formal party to the criminal case, you possess vital rights that are frequently overlooked by overburdened prosecutors and judges. We are recognized national leaders in defending these rights and will advocate fiercely on your behalf in the criminal process while also advising you on potential civil claims against the perpetrator and other responsible parties.
Our formidable team includes:
- Criminal Law Experts: Former state and federal prosecutors with decades of experience.
- Catastrophic Personal Injury Specialists: Accomplished lawyers with a track record of securing substantial settlements for clients.
- Internet Law Advocates: Protecting your privacy and resisting unwarranted access to your social media and personal data.
Understanding Criminal vs. Civil Cases
To fully grasp what sets us apart, it’s important to recognize the distinctions between criminal and civil cases:
| Criminal Case | Civil Case |
| Victim is not a party but can provide input | Victim is the plaintiff with full control over the claims |
| Requires proof beyond a reasonable doubt | Requires proof by a preponderance of the evidence |
| Aims for punishment (e.g., jail time); restitution is limited | Aims for compensation through damages, including pain and suffering |
| Public prosecutor represents the state; victim can hire a private lawyer | Victim has a private lawyer representing their interests |
| Limited judgment of restitution available | Broader range of damages available to the victim |
Media Reporting on Silverman Thompson’s Significant Victim’s Rights Cases
CBS News | Report: Lawsuit settled in Capital Gazette newsroom shooting
The National Registry of Exonerations | Umar Burley Exoneration and Lawsuit
The Baltimore Sun | Baltimore expected to pay $8 million to settle Gun Trace Task Force lawsuit, eclipsing amount in Freddie Gray case – Baltimore Sun
Town and Country Magazine | Chessy Prout Speaks Out After Settling Her Lawsuit With St. Paul’s School
The Washington Post | Orthodox Jewish organizations reach $14.25 million settlement with victims of voyeur-rabbi Barry Freundel
Explore Our Additional Victim’s Rights Resources
How We Can Help in the Criminal Case
How We Can Help in an Injury Case
Clergy Abuse / Sexual Abuse of Minors
We invite you to contact us for a complimentary consultation at 410.385.2225 or 800.385.2243. Let us show you how we can make a meaningful difference in your journey toward justice and healing.
Contact Steven D. Silverman
As the founder and managing partner of Silverman Thompson, Steven D. Silverman leads the victim’s rights practice group, bringing together the Firm’s resources and spearheading the staffing and execution of these unique and complex cases. Every victim’s rights case at Silverman Thompson has a team of plaintiff’s, personal injury, criminal, and civil attorneys individually assembled for each individual matter.
Mr. Silverman can be reached directly at ssilverman@silvermanthompson.com or 410.385.2226.