Sexual Abuse Advocacy

Sexual Abuse Attorney in Joliet, IL

Compassionate representation for abuse survivors. EAM LAW provides confidential, experienced advocacy for those seeking justice.

Sexual Abuse Claims: Frequently Asked Questions

Understanding your legal rights and options as a survivor.

Can I file a civil lawsuit for sexual abuse in Illinois even if criminal charges weren't filed?

Yes, you can file a civil lawsuit for sexual abuse regardless of whether criminal charges were filed or the outcome of any criminal case. Civil and criminal cases have different standards of proof and serve different purposes. A civil lawsuit seeks compensation for your injuries and holds the perpetrator financially accountable, while criminal cases focus on punishment by the state.

Is there a time limit to file a sexual abuse lawsuit in Illinois?

Illinois has extended statutes of limitations for sexual abuse cases, recognizing that survivors often need time to come forward. For childhood sexual abuse, you generally have until age 40 to file suit, or within 5 years of discovering the abuse caused your injuries. For adult sexual abuse, you typically have 10 years from the date of abuse or 5 years from discovery. Recent law changes have also revived some previously time-barred claims.

Can I sue institutions like schools or churches for sexual abuse by their employees?

Yes, institutions can be held liable for sexual abuse by their employees, volunteers, or agents. This includes schools, churches, youth organizations, sports teams, and healthcare facilities. Institutions may be liable for negligent hiring, inadequate supervision, failure to implement proper safeguards, or covering up known abuse. These cases often result in significant compensation due to the institution’s deeper resources.

What damages can I recover in a sexual abuse lawsuit?

Sexual abuse survivors may recover compensation for medical and psychological treatment, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In cases involving institutional liability or particularly egregious conduct, punitive damages may also be awarded. Illinois law recognizes that sexual abuse causes long-lasting trauma that often requires ongoing treatment and support.

Will my case be kept confidential?

We understand the sensitive nature of sexual abuse cases and work to protect our clients’ privacy whenever possible. Court filings can often use initials instead of full names, and we can seek protective orders to keep certain information confidential. Many cases settle out of court with confidentiality agreements. However, we’ll always discuss the privacy implications and work with you to determine the best approach for your specific situation.

Why Choose EAM LAW for Sexual Abuse Cases?

You Deserve Justice and Support

Taking legal action takes courage. We're here to support you every step of the way with confidential, compassionate representation.