Using Civil Litigation to Hold Individuals and Institutions Accountable for Sexual Abuse and Gender-Based Violence
At Sanford Heisler Sharp McKnight, we have extensive expertise representing survivors of sexual assault, sexual abuse, or rape. Our attorneys work with survivors nationwide to hold the individual who committed the abuse accountable in the civil court system. Institutions that fail to protect a person from sexual abuse – for example, by failing to report suspected sexual misconduct – can also be held accountable through litigation.
Sexual misconduct can take place in nearly any environment, such as:
- Colleges and universities
- Religious institutions
- Workplaces
- Health care facilities
- Apartment complexes
- Athletic teams
- Government agencies
In every sexual abuse claim we handle, the survivor comes first. We prioritize our clients’ mental and emotional well-being at every step. We work to minimize the impact of the legal system on our clients and work creatively to achieve results that help our clients move forward and heal.
Damages Available in Civil Sexual Abuse Claims
The criminal justice system is renowned for failing to prosecute sexual assault and other sex crimes successfully. However, through a civil claim, victims have the opportunity to achieve some measure of justice and may recover damages such as:
- Hospital bills
- Therapy costs
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Our Work
While some of our cases result in litigation, many of our cases settle through confidential processes. Our public cases include:
- Dartmouth Title IX Class Action
- Rabbi Freundel Voyeurism Class Action
- GirlsDoPorn.com Lawsuit
- FTCA Sexual Assault Complaints Against Army Doctor
- Midshipmen-Cadet Suits Against Maersk Line
Speak with A Sexual Assault Lawyer Today
To learn more about pursuing civil litigation, please get in touch with us at one of our law offices. You can call 646-512-8609, send us an email, or use our online contact form.