Can you sue someone for assault?
Yes — and often there is more than one party to pursue. You can bring a civil claim against the person who assaulted you for assault and battery. But because attackers frequently have no money or insurance, the more meaningful claim is usually against the property owner or business whose inadequate security let the assault happen. That second claim is called negligent security.
A civil case is also separate from any criminal prosecution. Even if the attacker is never charged — or is acquitted — you can still pursue compensation through a civil lawsuit, which has a lower burden of proof.
Who can be held responsible for an assault?
- The attacker, for the assault and battery itself
- The property owner or business that failed to provide reasonable security
- The management or security company responsible for protecting the premises
When is a property owner liable for an assault?
The same negligent-security principles apply: if an assault was foreseeable — because of prior violence, a known dangerous patron, or an obviously unsafe setting — and the owner failed to provide reasonable security, they can be held responsible. Common failures include missing or untrained guards, broken locks and lighting, no crowd control at venues, and ignoring known threats.
Where do these assaults happen?
- Bars, nightclubs, and concert venues
- Apartment complexes and parking areas
- Hotels, stores, and shopping centers
- Workplaces and event spaces open to the public
What can you recover in an assault lawsuit?
Compensation depends on the facts but can include medical bills, lost wages, future care, and money for the physical pain and emotional trauma an assault causes — including anxiety, PTSD, and the lasting fear that often follows a violent attack.
How long do you have to file?
Deadlines differ by state and by the type of claim. In Florida, negligent-security claims generally must be filed within two years. Acting quickly also helps preserve surveillance video and witness accounts before they’re lost.
Why assault victims choose The Haggard Law Firm
The firm has spent decades holding negligent property owners accountable for violent crime, handling nearly 500 negligent-security cases. Attorney Michael A. Haggard is among the most decorated crime-victim trial lawyers in the country. We represent assault victims nationwide on a no-fee-unless-we-win basis.
Frequently asked questions
Can I sue someone for assault even if there were no criminal charges?
Yes. A civil assault claim is independent of the criminal justice system and has a lower burden of proof. You can sue whether or not the attacker was arrested, charged, or convicted.
Is it worth suing the attacker if they have no money?
Often the stronger claim is against the property owner or business whose poor security allowed the assault, because they typically carry insurance. We investigate every responsible party so you have a real path to recovery.
Can I sue a bar where I was assaulted?
Possibly. If the bar overserved a patron, ignored known danger, or failed to provide reasonable security, it may be liable for an assault on its premises. A free case review will tell you.
What does an assault-victim lawyer cost?
Nothing up front. We work on contingency — no attorney's fees unless we win compensation for you.
Do you take assault cases nationwide?
Yes. The Haggard Law Firm represents assault victims and their families across the United States.