Can you sue after a sexual assault?
Yes. Beyond any criminal prosecution of the attacker, survivors can often bring a civil lawsuit — including against the business or property owner whose negligence helped enable the assault. A civil case is private, it has a lower burden of proof than a criminal case, and it can proceed whether or not anyone is ever criminally charged or convicted.
We handle these cases with discretion and respect. Many can be pursued confidentially.
When is a property owner or business responsible?
Like other negligent-security claims, liability turns on foreseeability and reasonable safety. A hotel that ignored prior assaults, an apartment complex with broken locks, a parking garage with no lighting or cameras, a rideshare company that failed to screen drivers — when a business creates or ignores a known risk and an assault results, it can be held accountable.
Where these claims arise
- Hotels and motels — failed door locks, key-card security, or staff screening
- Apartment complexes — broken access control, no lighting, ignored complaints
- Rideshare and transportation — negligent driver screening or supervision
- Workplaces, gyms, and care facilities — failure to act on known risks
What a civil claim can recover
Compensation can include the cost of medical and psychological care, lost income, and the profound emotional harm a survivor carries. Civil cases can also compel institutions to change the practices that allowed the assault.
Time limits — and why many survivors still have time
Deadlines for sexual-assault civil claims vary widely by state, and many states have extended or revived their limitation periods in recent years. Even if you believe too much time has passed, it is worth confirming — you may still have a claim.
Handled with care
The Haggard Law Firm brings decades of crime-victim trial experience to these cases and treats every survivor with dignity and confidentiality. There is no fee unless we win.
Frequently asked questions
Can I file a civil suit if there was no criminal conviction?
Yes. A civil claim is independent of the criminal system and uses a lower burden of proof. You can pursue it whether or not the attacker was arrested, charged, or convicted.
Will my case be public?
Many sexual-assault civil claims can be handled with significant privacy protections, and some can proceed confidentially. We will explain the options for protecting your identity before anything is filed.
Isn't it too late for me to sue?
Maybe not. Many states have extended or revived the deadlines for sexual-assault claims. It's worth a free, confidential conversation to find out whether you still have time.
What does it cost?
Nothing up front. These cases are handled on a contingency fee — no attorney's fees unless we recover compensation for you.