Michigan Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Survivors of sexual abuse often carry lasting emotional, physical, and psychological harm—especially when abuse could have been prevented. If you or a loved one was sexually abused in Michigan, you have the right to seek justice through a civil lawsuit. Our Michigan sexual abuse attorney can help hold perpetrators and negligent institutions accountable while pursuing compensation and a sense of closure.

At Sex Abuse Survivor Lawyers, we represent survivors across Michigan with compassion, discretion, and determination. We understand how difficult it can be to come forward, and we are committed to guiding survivors through the legal process with respect and care. Our sexual abuse attorneys have achieved landmark verdicts and settlements, including a major case in which we represented more than 160 survivors of sexual abuse involving a doctor accused of abusing student-athletes at the University of Michigan.

Call (303) 835-9227 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation.

What Is Sexual Abuse?

Sexual abuse is any non-consensual sexual contact, behavior, or exploitation. It can occur once or over a prolonged period and may involve force, coercion, manipulation, threats, or abuse of authority. Sexual abuse affects people of all ages and backgrounds and often occurs in environments where trust is expected, such as schools, churches, youth organizations, workplaces, medical facilities, and nursing homes.

Importantly, sexual abuse is not limited to physical contact. Many abusive acts involve psychological coercion or exploitation, particularly when the survivor is a child or otherwise vulnerable.

Common Forms of Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse can take many forms, including but not limited to:

• Unwanted touching or fondling
• Sexual assault or rape
• Child sexual abuse or molestation
• Sexual exploitation or trafficking
• Sexual harassment involving coercion or threats
• Abuse by authority figures such as teachers, clergy, coaches, doctors, or caregivers
• Online sexual exploitation or grooming

In many cases, survivors know their abuser. Abuse is often enabled by institutions that fail to properly screen, supervise, or respond to warning signs.

Signs of Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse does not always leave visible injuries, and survivors may delay reporting for years due to fear, shame, or trauma. Some common signs of sexual abuse include:

• Sudden behavioral or personality changes
• Anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress symptoms
• Withdrawal from family, friends, or activities
• Sleep disturbances or nightmares
• Unexplained fear of certain people or places
• Regression in behavior (especially in children)
• Self-harm or substance abuse

Recognizing these signs can be critical to protecting survivors and preventing further harm.

Who Is Liable?

A civil sexual abuse lawsuit may involve more than just the individual abuser. Depending on the circumstances, multiple parties may be held legally responsible, including:

• The perpetrator of the abuse
• Schools, school districts, or universities
• Churches, dioceses, or religious organizations
• Youth organizations, camps, or sports programs
• Employers or workplaces
• Healthcare providers or long-term care facilities

In Michigan, institutions may be liable if they failed to properly screen employees, ignored complaints, covered up abuse, or did not take reasonable steps to prevent foreseeable harm. Holding these entities accountable can help protect others and drive meaningful change.

Compensation Available to Survivors

While no amount of money can undo the harm caused by sexual abuse, compensation can help survivors access resources and regain stability. A Michigan sexual abuse lawyer can pursue damages such as:

• Medical and mental health treatment costs
• Therapy and counseling expenses
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress and trauma
• Lost income or diminished earning capacity
• Costs related to long-term care or rehabilitation

In some cases, punitive damages may also be available to punish especially egregious misconduct and deter future abuse.

Michigan Sexual Abuse Laws

Michigan law provides survivors with the right to file civil lawsuits against abusers and negligent institutions. In recent years, the state has expanded survivors’ rights, particularly for those who were abused as children. These changes may allow survivors to file claims years after the abuse occurred, depending on the facts of the case.

Because statutes of limitations can be complex and subject to exceptions, it is critical to speak with a Michigan sexual abuse lawyer as soon as possible to understand your legal options.

Sexual Abuse Lawsuit FAQs

Do I have to press criminal charges to file a civil lawsuit?

No. Civil lawsuits are separate from criminal cases. You can pursue a civil claim even if no criminal charges were filed or if the abuser was not convicted.

What if the abuse happened years ago?

You may still have legal options. Michigan has extended certain deadlines for survivors, especially in child sexual abuse cases. An attorney can evaluate whether your claim is still viable.

Will my identity be kept confidential?

In many cases, survivors can proceed using a pseudonym to protect their privacy. Courts often take steps to safeguard sensitive information.

How long does a sexual abuse lawsuit take?

Each case is different. Some cases resolve through settlement, while others proceed to litigation. Your lawyer can provide a clearer timeline based on your specific situation.

What does it cost to hire a Michigan sexual abuse lawyer?

Most sexual abuse attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront and only owe legal fees if compensation is recovered