Sexual Abuse Lawyer Representing Victims in Idaho

We often think of sexual abuse cases as being a purely criminal matter, but this is not always so. Victims of sexual abuse may pursue justice through the civil court system regardless of what does or does not happen in a criminal court of law. Our attorneys are here to help you every step of the way.

Victims of sexual abuse often fear retaliation from their abusers, or they are worried that they will be accused of lying by those closest to them. If you were abused, talk to our legal team about who you can sue for damages. Although a lawsuit cannot undo the harm you suffered, it may help bring a sense of closure and justice, so that you can move on with your life.

Contact our sexual abuse lawyers representing victims for a free, confidential legal assessment by calling The Law Office of Andrew Shubin at (814) 826-3586.

Who Can a Victim of Sexual Abuse Sue for Damages in Idaho?

One of the hardest parts about beginning a civil lawsuit for sexual abuse is determining who to hold responsible. Below are people and entities commonly named in sexual abuse lawsuits.

Romantic Partners

Sexual abuse from a romantic partner is more common than people realize. It might come from someone you have been dating for a long time or on your very first date.

The fact that you were romantically connected to the defendant does not mean that you do not have a valid claim for sexual abuse. Nobody, not even a romantic partner, may sexually abuse you without facing consequences.

Spouses

Sexual abuse also happens between married couples. Many partners do not report this kind of abuse because of misconceptions about sex within marriage. A common misconception is that husbands are entitled to sex from their wives, but this is not true.

Additionally, many husbands are sexually abused by their wives, but they are often too embarrassed to come forward or believe that women cannot abuse men. This is not true, and any spouse may sue the other for sexual abuse.

Family Members

Even if the abuser was not a romantic partner or spouse, they might still be family. For example, a victim may be sexually abused by a parent, grandparent, step-parent, extended relatives, or even siblings.

Many victims hesitate to come forward because they have complex feelings about accusing family members of abuse, or they may worry that their entire family will turn against them. It is important to be brave and report the abuse so that you can get justice.

Teachers or Professors

Sexual abuse also happens in schools and universities, and teachers and professors may be held responsible.

Children may experience sexual abuse from teachers, school administrators, or after-school supervisors, like coaches. Sexual abuse can also happen at universities. Even though college students are usually legal adults, they can still sue a professor who uses their position of authority to commit sexual abuse.

Employers

Sexual abuse can also happen at work. An employer may use their position of power to coerce employees into sex. They may also use their positions to threaten the victim’s employment if they try to report the abuse. If this happens, contact the police and get a lawyer as soon as possible.

Schools

When a teacher or professor sexually abuses a student, the school or university itself may be held responsible. Often, when school employees are found responsible for sexual abuse, their employers, the schools, may be vicariously liable.

This can become somewhat complicated when suing a public school because it is a governmental entity. However, you may still sue a public school, but you should contact a lawyer for help as soon as possible.

Religious Institutions

Many high-profile news stories about sexual abuse cases have involved religious institutions. Unfortunately, when clergy members commit sexual abuse, the matter is often covered up by the church or religious organization and “handled internally.”

Remember, your church is not the police, and you can and should bypass them and contact the police and a lawyer as soon as possible.

What Damages Can You Sue for in a Sexual Abuse Lawsuit?

Although a civil lawsuit will not land a sexual abuser in jail, you may claim significant damages and receive financial compensation for everything you have gone through.

Medical Bills

Sexual abuse can be painful and cause serious injuries to victims. Many victims require medical attention, and some need more extensive care. Even if you did not report the abuse at the time that you received medical care, you may still claim the cost of medical care in your damages.

Lost Wages

Sexual abuse can take a serious mental and emotional toll on people. Many victims need time away from work to process what happened. Others might feel compelled to leave their jobs and careers if the abuse happened at work. In such cases, victims may claim lost income as part of their lawsuits.

Therapy Expenses

You should also claim the cost of any therapy or mental health treatment you have received because of the abuse. Keep thorough records of all the therapy or mental health care you have received since the sexual abuse began.

Mental Distress

Whether or not you go to therapy, you may experience immense mental distress and anguish. Sexual abuse is something that haunts victims for many years, sometimes forever. The mental toll of the abuse should be a major factor in your claim for damages.

FAQs About Suing for Sexual Abuse in Idaho

Are Victims Allowed to File Civil Lawsuits for Sexual Abuse?

Yes. While defendants may face criminal charges and penalties for committing sexual abuse, victims may also take them to civil court and sue for damages. Remember, a defendant will not go to jail after a civil lawsuit, but they may have to pay significant financial compensation.

What Evidence is Helpful in a Civil Lawsuit for Sexual Abuse?

Our sexual abuse lawyers representing victims need evidence about where and how the abuse occurred. For example, if you were abused while at school, records from school about the teacher and the abuse may be helpful. Medical records about your injuries will also be helpful. Testimony from plaintiffs is crucial, and you should be prepared to take the stand.

Can You File a Civil Lawsuit for Sexual Abuse if the Person Who Abused You is Dead?

Possibly. Even if the person who abused you is gone, it may be possible to file a claim against the deceased person’s estate. If there is no estate, you may sue others connected to the abuse, such as employers or institutions like schools and churches.

How Long After Experiencing Sexual Abuse Can You File a Civil Lawsuit?

In Idaho, the statute of limitations for personal injuries gives plaintiffs 2 years from when the abuse occurred or 1 year from when the victim realized or discovered the abuse to sue.

If the plaintiff was sexually abused as a child, they have 5 years from when they turn 18 to sue. Alternatively, after the victim turns 18, they may have 5 years from when they discovered the abuse to sue.

Ask Our Sexual Abuse Attorneys Representing Victims in Idaho for Help Now

Contact our sexual abuse lawyers representing victims for a free, confidential legal assessment by calling The Law Office of Andrew Shubin at (814) 826-3586.