It Was Not Your Fault: Understanding Your Options
If you survived sexual abuse or assault, please hear this first: it was not your fault. Whatever you did or did not do, however you responded, none of it changes that. This is a gentle overview of the options you have — no pressure, and entirely at your pace.
You are in control
Whether, when, and how to act is entirely up to you. Reaching out for information does not commit you to anything, and there is no judgment here — only support and honest answers when you want them.
A civil claim is separate from the police
A civil claim is separate from any criminal case. You do not need to have reported it, and you do not need charges or a conviction, to pursue one. It exists to hold those responsible accountable and to support your recovery.
An institution may share responsibility
Abuse is often enabled by a school, employer, religious organization, or facility that failed to protect. Where its own failures enabled the harm, it may share responsibility — which is our work to establish, handled discreetly.
It may not be too late
Survivor deadlines are often longer than an ordinary case, and some windows are extended or revived. Please do not assume the door is closed. A free, confidential conversation can explain what is possible for you.
Frequently asked questions
I am not sure I want to do anything yet. Is that okay?
Completely. There is no pressure and no deadline to decide anything today. You can simply have a confidential conversation to understand your options, and take any step only if and when you are ready.
This article is general information about Sexual Abuse injury law, not legal advice. Every case is different — talk to a lawyer about your situation.
The law depends on your state
The steps above apply wherever you were hurt. Filing deadlines, fault rules, and limits on damages differ by state — pick yours for what applies to sexual abuse.
Bitten by someone else's dog?
A quick, confidential review can tell you where you stand — about two minutes, no cost, no obligation.