Every state has its own definition of “sexual assault.” Often, sexual assault is an umbrella term for molestation, rape, and other sexual acts that are forced upon a victim against his or her will. Such acts may include fondling, unwanted sexual contact, groping, and other like behaviors that are sexual in nature and not welcomed by the victim.
Here in Texas, sexual assault offenses are covered under Sections 22.011 and 22.02 (aggravated sexual assault) of the Texas Penal Code. If you are a victim of sexual assault, the state may pursue prosecution in criminal court – that is if the perpetrator has been apprehended and officially charged. But, what if the offender wasn’t caught? Or, what if they have been charged, does that mean you have no further legal recourse?
Filing a Lawsuit in Civil Court
With sexual assault cases, justice can be served by filing a criminal case and by filing a lawsuit in civil court. Even if the perpetrator is at large, that doesn’t mean their victim cannot file a personal injury lawsuit in the civil court system.
Let’s face it, sexual assault victims suffer from their assaults. They may incur medical bills, lose work, suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), have to attend counseling, go on prescription medications, and much more.
Sexual assault victims may fear the opposite sex, and their intimate relationships can be heavily affected. For these reasons and more, sexual assault victims can seek compensation through the civil court system by filing a personal injury claim, sometimes even if their attacker has not been caught.
Types of Claims We Handle
At The Zendeh Del Law Firm, PLLC, our Plano personal injury attorneys handle a wide variety of sexual assault claims, including but not limited to childhood sexual abuse, statutory rape, sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault, sexual harassment in the workplace, and improper relationships between educators and students to name a few.
Next: Why Most Personal Injury Claims Settle Out of Court
If you’re a victim of sexual assault in the Greater Plano Area, we urge you to contact our firm to schedule a confidential consultation with a skilled member of our legal team. We are here to offer compassionate representation and guide you every step of the way.