Two people you may be able to sue
The shooter — for assault and battery. This is a valid claim, but shooters frequently have no money or insurance, so a judgment against them may be uncollectible.
The property owner or business — for negligent security, if their failure to provide reasonable safety allowed a foreseeable shooting. This is often the meaningful claim, because property owners usually carry insurance.
It doesn’t depend on a criminal case
A civil lawsuit is separate from the criminal justice system and uses a lower burden of proof. You can sue whether or not the shooter was ever caught, charged, or convicted.
How to know if you have a case
The key questions are where you were shot and whether that property had reasonable security against a foreseeable risk. A free, confidential case review will give you a straight answer. There’s no fee unless we win.
Frequently asked questions
Can I sue if the shooter was never identified?
Yes. A negligent-security claim targets the property owner, not the shooter, so an unidentified shooter does not prevent that case.
What if the shooting happened at my apartment or a business?
Then the property owner may be liable if security was inadequate. See our guides on apartment, bar, and parking-lot shootings, or contact us for a free review.