The term “sexual abuse” embraces a variety of misconduct that is based on the victim’s gender or sexual characteristics. Some forms of misconduct, including sexual assaults, are criminal. In those cases, the criminal justice system might provide the primary recourse for a victim. In many instances, however, the civil justice system can help victims of sexual abuse get their lives back on track by requiring the wrongdoer to pay compensation.

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The Bureau of Justice Statistics reports that about 3 million victims over the age of 12 were subjected to a violent sexual assault during 2014. Some victims experienced multiple assaults. Those statistics understate the scope of the problem of sexual abuse because they exclude young children and forms of sexual assault that are not accompanied by physical violence.

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Bringing a lawsuit against an individual who commits a sexual assault is not always realistic. Insurance does not usually cover intentional misconduct and perpetrators do not always have money to pay judgments. It is even more difficult to collect from offenders who are sent to prison.

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In some cases, however, it is possible to bring a lawsuit against an institution that employs the offender. Many sexual assaults are committed by people who hold positions of trust or authority, including:

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Daycare workers
Eldercare workers
Foster parents
Teachers
Coaches and athletic department staff members
Nursing home employees
Hospital employees
Members of the clergy
Physicians
Psychologists, counselors and therapists
Police officers and jailers

When people abuse their positions of trust by sexually assaulting vulnerable victims, their employers can often be held responsible. Employers who fail to conduct adequate background checks of employees, who do not provide adequate supervision, or who otherwise neglect to protect vulnerable victims in their care can be forced to pay compensation in a civil lawsuit. Government agencies can also be held responsible for placing vulnerable individuals in unsafe environments.

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The civil justice system provides the primary remedy for other kinds of sexual abuse, including sexual harassment. If you're unsure about whether you have a valid claim, our law firm offers free consultations. It's simply an initial meeting that allows you to tell your story so we can explain your legal rights. If you can pursue a civil sexual assault claim, we'll tell you. If you do not, we'll tell you that as well, freeing you to seek another way of moving forward.

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Contact our firm at (800) 977-0007 for a free consultation. Let us determine if you have a viable case and what we can do to pursue justice alongside you.