Maine Sexual Abuse Lawyer Representing Victims

Survivors of sexual abuse can often get justice through civil lawsuits. Whether you were abused as a child or adult, our attorneys can write and file a complaint, support you through settlement negotiations or a trial, and advocate for your fair recovery.

Statutes of limitations differ for victims abused as children and adults, so confirm your filing deadline with us. Victims whose lawsuits go to trial may testify about the abuse they endured and the damages they have suffered, and we extensively prepare plaintiffs to testify. Medical records can be strong evidence, but not all survivors have many medical records detailing injuries and other signs of abuse, so do not let that stop you from pursuing a lawsuit.

For a free case review from our sexual abuse lawyers representing victims, call The Law Office of Andrew Shubin at (814) 826-3586.

How Long Do Sexual Abuse Victims Have to Sue in Maine?

Like most states, Maine has different statutes of limitations for child sexual abuse lawsuits and adult sexual abuse lawsuits. Let our attorneys explain the filing deadline for your case and do what is necessary to meet it.

For Child Sexual Abuse

Recently, Maine passed a law that lets all survivors take the abuse of the state’s current lack of statute of limitations for childhood sexual abuse lawsuits, regardless of when the abuse began or stopped. Sexual assault, abuse, contact, touching, and exploitation are examples of sexual acts toward minors with no civil filing deadline.

The retroactive aspects of this law have been challenged since its passage in 2021 and were even struck down in a decision from Maine’s Supreme Judicial Court in 2025. This decision makes things much more confusing for survivors, and we can confirm whether or not you still have a viable claim for sexual abuse, even if it happened long ago.

For Adult Sexual Abuse

Maine does not have a specific statute of limitations for adult sexual abuse lawsuits. The general personal injury statute of limitations applies, giving plaintiffs six years to file.

This is more time than many states give plaintiffs for injury lawsuits, even sexual abuse lawsuits. Still, it is not long for victims to come to terms with abuse, get legal help, and bring claims, so reach out as soon as possible.

Do I Have to Testify During My Sexual Abuse Lawsuit?

Many sexual abuse lawsuits settle. If yours does, you will not have to testify, though you may be deposed during the discovery phase. If your lawsuit goes to trial, your testimony may be some of the strongest evidence to support your case.

Depositions occur during the fact-finding stage of a lawsuit known as discovery. The defendant’s attorneys may ask you questions about the abuse, like when it began and the injuries you have suffered. Statements you make during the deposition may be referred to during a trial, so their accuracy is crucial.

Understandably, testifying intimidates many sexual abuse survivors. Our sexual abuse lawyers representing victims take time to review questions, run through different scenarios, and prepare plaintiffs to testify. Testifying about sexual abuse is particularly difficult, and we approach these cases with the utmost care.

Testifying not only lets you describe the abuse you endured but also the damages you have suffered. Jurors who hear your pain and suffering firsthand may better appreciate it, leading to larger awards to hold defendants liable.

What Medical Records Do I Need for a Sexual Abuse Lawsuit in Maine?

You may not have exhaustive medical records for your sexual abuse lawsuit or any medical records at all. Many victims do not seek care for injuries due to abuse, so do not let that stop you from seeking justice.

If you did go to the hospital, disclose the assault to your primary care physician, or sought any medical attention whatsoever throughout the abuse, tell our lawyers. Once we have your permission, we can obtain all relevant medical records and assess how they support your case.

If the abuse ended somewhat recently, you may still need medical care. Get treated and document any injuries from sexual abuse, and we can obtain any records that result from your care.

What Damages Can Sexual Abuse Lawsuits Cover?

Sexual abuse lawsuits in Maine can cover economic damages and non-economic damages and may even pay punitive damages to plaintiffs.

Economic Damages

There are many economic damages from sexual abuse. Physical injuries and psychological trauma can prevent victims from working, leading to lost wages. Medical treatment for fractures, lacerations, contusions, and other sexual abuse and assault injuries should also be covered.

The cost of mental health services is also compensable, so tell us about any therapy expenses you have incurred.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages may comprise most of your damages from sexual abuse. Long-term sexual abuse of children causes serious mental and emotional damage.

Pain and suffering damages are not guaranteed in any compensation claim, even for sexual abuse. That is why your testimony is such important evidence, as is testimony from mental health professionals who have helped you deal with the abuse.

Juries do not have to follow any limits when awarding non-economic damages to sexual abuse survivors in Maine. They may award whatever amount they think is appropriate, which your testimony may influence.

Punitive Damages

Survivors of institutional sexual abuse and other harms may also get punitive damages. Courts award punitive damages to punish defendants. Defendants must pay punitive damages in addition to compensating victims for economic and non-economic harms.

Sexual abuse lawsuits involving public schools or other governmental entities cannot include punitive damages, even if the defendant’s conduct would typically call for them. In other sexual abuse lawsuits, survivors may get punitive damages, and juries may award any amount.

Call Us for Help with Your Sexual Abuse Case in Maine

For a free case assessment from our sexual abuse lawyers representing victims, call The Law Office of Andrew Shubin now at (814) 826-3586.