In handling a sexual abuse case, the lawyer should first verify through witnesses, siblings, or a therapist that sexual abuse has actually occurred. Child sexual abuse claims are often publicized, and the accusation can be emotionally, socially, and economically devastating to the accused. Further, a false accusation may be grounds for sanctions by the court or a malpractice suit against the lawyer. The lawyer should also ensure that the plaintiff's therapist is experienced in treating sexual abuse victims. The therapist's role in treatment should be neutral and not leading or judgmental. For many sexual abuse victims, the statute of limitations for criminal prosecution has passed by the time they are able or ready to go to court. Most States, however, have extended the statute of limitations for civil claims, recognizing that many victims are so traumatized that they involuntarily repress their memory of the abuse. If the plaintiff was abused by a parent, the claim may be barred by the parental immunity doctrine which prevents children from suing their parents for personal injury. In addition, most homeowners insurance policies exclude coverage for intentional criminal acts by the insured. Insurance policies usually cover an occurrence, which is defined as an accident resulting in bodily injury or property damage that was not expected or intended by the insured. This provision is commonly referred to as the intentional acts exclusion. If the abuse perpetrator is not the victim's parent but rather an employee of a business or institution that gave access to the plaintiff, the lawyer may consider a claim against the business or institution that allowed the abuse to occur. Suggestions are offered on how to prepare sexual abuse victims to testify, and the importance of a thorough voir dire is emphasized since sexual abuse trials subject jurors to painful emotions. 22 references