The physical and emotional effects of sexual assault on victims are devastating and can last a lifetime. Sexual assault is defined as any unwanted sexual contact or behavior. If you or someone you love has been a victim of sexual assault, find out your legal options by contacting the law firm of Koonz McKenney Johnson & DePaolis LLP. You may be entitled to receive compensation. Call us today to schedule a free case evaluation.
Why Choose Koonz McKenney Johnson & DePaolis LLP?
- We have more than 38 years of experience fighting for sexual assault survivors.
- We will give your case the compassionate attention that it requires and you the respect that you deserve.
- While you take care of yourself, we will work tirelessly to get you the maximum amount of compensation possible.
Filing a Civil Lawsuit for Sexual Assault in D.C.
You may have the right to pursue legal action in civil court against your attacker, even if they have been criminally tried. Although no amount of money can take away your pain, a civil lawsuit will allow you to be financially compensated for your injuries. Compensation may help alleviate any financial stress you have, so that your main focus can be on healing. Damages you may be able to recover include:
- Costs of past and future medical treatment, including psychological treatment
- Lost wages and potential loss of future earnings
- Mental and emotional anguish and distress
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment or quality of life
- Disability
The District of Columbia has set statutes of limitations on filing personal injury civil suits for sexual assault, depending on the cause of action you take. The time allowed can be as little as one year from the attack.
There is not a cause of action for “sexual assault.” A victim would have to choose a legal theory to file under, such as assault and battery or false imprisonment. Consulting with a Washington, D.C. sexual assault lawyer will help in choosing the correct legal approach.
For more information on statute of limitations on personal injury claims, visit our Washington, D.C. personal injury attorney page to learn more.
Third Party Liability for Sexual Assault in D.C.
The offender may not be the only party liable for the sexual assault you have suffered. A third party may be also be partially be responsible. For example, if you were assaulted in a parking lot, you may be able to sue the property owner for negligent security.
Why You Need a Lawyer for a D.C. Sexual Assault Claim
If the defendant was convicted in a criminal prosecution, you may be entitled to show evidence of such conviction. If so, there is a greater chance for success in a civil lawsuit. If there was no criminal case, the standard of proof is still lower in a civil case compared to a criminal case, so it may be easier to prove liability. Having a lawyer gather all of the necessary evidence to build a strong case on your behalf can prove invaluable after such a traumatic event. You will have the ability to focus on healing instead of stressing about filing deadlines and paperwork. Many attorneys will work for you on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t be charged a fee unless they win your case. There’s no risk to you in obtaining legal help.
Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation
Discuss your rights with an experienced lawyer after suffering from a sexual assault. We offer free initial consultations and if we don’t recover money on your behalf, you owe us nothing in legal fees. Call us today or fill out our online contact form.
Koonz McKenney Johnson & Depaolis serve residents of Washington DC including those living in Capitol Hill, Columbia Heights, Downtown District of Columbia, Foggy Bottom, Georgetown, and Mount Vernon.