Koffels and NLS Law collaborate for Jolene, a victim of child sex abuse

Koffels has recently been working with Neisha Shepherd, our colleague at NLS Law in Newcastle. She had been working on an horrific case of child sexual abuse against the Department of Community and Family Services (DOCS), and sought our assistance due to the magnitude of the matter. She got to know her client well over time, and cared deeply about the outcome she hoped she could achieve for her.

As is always the case with these matters, the victims suffer not just physically, but emotionally, effecting every part of their lives; their ability to cope and their sense of self-esteem.

As presented recently by Neisha to the ABC, Joelene was a beautiful child who became a lovely but damaged woman, who had the right to a fulfilling life

After battling through a truly harrowing life since birth, at only 28 years of age, Jolene ended her own life in early December. She didn’t get the opportunity to live the safe, healthy and stable life she deserved.

As lawyers we cannot help but be touched by such tragedy and the sense of loss at having been unable to avert such a sad waste of a precious life.

There is a sense of achievement however, from the success stories. The ones that come from those that can somehow find the great courage to go through what can seem a very difficult process to seek compensation for the wrongs that were done to them. It can be a cathartic experience that once conquered can bring a sense of validation, self- belief and the wherewithal to a more secure and gratifying future.

We have attached the link to Joelene’s story as it is a one that needs to be told. We also urge those who have been the victims of abuse in the past to consider the option to seek compensation. It can sometimes bring with it more than just the compensation itself, but an empowering knowledge that you have been heard, believed and supported. A better life as it were.

The articles and interview regarding Joelene’s story can be found below:

http://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/lawreport/segment/6851188

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-12-08/former-foster-child’s-suicide-prompts-call-for-change/7010002