There are tens of thousands of arrests made for assaults and robberies in Philadelphia each year (Pennsylvania UCR Program). The perpetrator of a criminal act can be arrested and charged with a serious crime, often a felony in the case of an aggravated assault or a robbery. A negligent business or property owner may also be sued under the Commonwealth’s premises liability laws. Here, our Philadelphia negligent security attorney discusses the key things to know about bringing a claim for assault or robbery in Pennsylvania.
An Assault May Be the Basis of a Negligent Security Claim
First and foremost, it is important to emphasize that an assault victim may have a negligent security lawsuit. In fact, these are among the most common types of negligent security cases. Negligent security claims often arise after assaults that occur on poorly maintained or inadequately monitored properties. Businesses and property owners in Pennsylvania have a duty to provide a reasonably safe environment for tenants, customers, and guests. For example, if a landlord in Philadelphia ignores broken locks in an apartment building or a business fails to provide security staff despite a history of violent incidents, they may be held liable when an assault occurs.
Key Factors in Assault and Robbery Negligent Security Cases in Pennsylvania
Negligent security law is complicated, especially so in assault cases. If you were the victim of an assault in Philadelphia or elsewhere in Southeastern Pennsylvania, it is crucial that you have an understanding of the law. Here are some of the key points that you should know:
- Duty of Care: A duty of care is foundational in premises liability law. Property owners must provide reasonable measures to protect tenants, customers, and visitors. Trespassers are generally not owed a duty of security.
- Foreseeability of Crime is Required: Businesses and property owners are generally not liable for assaults that are not foreseeable. In Pennsylvania, courts examine whether the type of crime was foreseeable based on prior incidents or known risks.
- Causation is Another Required Element: A claimant must show that the lack of security directly contributed to the assault or robbery. Without causation, there is likely no viable negligent security case.
How Our Negligent Security Lawyer in Philadelphia Can Help
Sean Quinn is a Philadelphia negligent security attorney with a proven record of success in complex cases. With a passion for fighting for justice for victims and ties to the local community, our firm puts your interests first. We will help you explore every available option to secure the maximum compensation. You can review our client testimonials and case results to learn more.
Speak to Our Philadelphia Negligent Security Lawyer Today
At Quinn Law Group, LLC, our Philadelphia negligent security lawyer has the knowledge and legal experience to fight for justice. If you were the victim of an assault or a robbery, we can help. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation initial case review. With a law office located in Philadelphia, our team represents victims of assault and robbery in civil claims throughout Southeast Pennsylvania.