Chicago Sexual Abuse Lawyer
Were you sexually abused or assaulted in Illinois? You deserve justice, accountability, and a law firm that refuses to be intimidated.
The Chicago sexual abuse lawyers at Ankin Law have more than 100 years of combined experience standing up for survivors against abusers, powerful institutions, and negligent enablers. Whether the abuse occurred at a school in Lincoln Park, a church in Little Village, a doctor’s office downtown, or a workplace in the suburbs, we have the grit, compassion, and courtroom skill to hold the guilty accountable.
At Ankin Law, “Injury Law Made Personal” isn’t a slogan. It’s our mission. Sexual abuse cases demand courage, sensitivity, and relentless legal pressure. Our team combines deep experience in Illinois civil law with an unflinching commitment to protect survivors’ rights.
Call (312) 600-0000 for a confidential, free consultation. Let Ankin Law take the fight off your shoulders and put it where it belongs: in the courtroom.
“When someone abuses their power and harms another person, that’s not just a crime. It’s a betrayal of human trust. Our job is to make sure that betrayal never goes unanswered.”
Table of Contents
Compensation for Sexual Abuse Cases
Compensation is more than money. It’s validation, closure, and the foundation for healing. In Chicago, survivors who bring civil lawsuits can pursue economic, non-economic, and punitive damages against abusers and any institutions that allowed the abuse to occur.
Various types of compensation may be available through a sexual abuse lawsuit. Our lawyers may be able to help you recover:
Economic damages address direct financial losses resulting from abuse, such as medical expenses, therapy or counseling costs, loss of income or employment opportunities, and any other out-of-pocket expenses related to the abuse.
These damages compensate survivors for the emotional and psychological suffering they endured. They can include pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and other intangible harms.
Punitive damages may be awarded to punish the perpetrator and deter others from engaging in similar behavior. These damages are meant to send a strong message that such behavior will not be tolerated.
In Cook County courts, our attorneys have repeatedly proven that financial compensation is a form of justice. Survivors can rebuild their lives with the resources they need for therapy, treatment, and a safer future.
Differences Between Criminal and Civil Court for Sexual Abuse Cases
In Illinois, justice can be pursued on two tracks: criminal and civil. The difference comes down to purpose and control.
- Criminal cases punish the abuser for violating the law. The state prosecutes, and penalties include jail time, fines, and mandatory sex offender registration.
- Civil cases empower you, the survivor, to seek compensation and accountability. You decide whether to settle, continue, or go to trial.
A civil case doesn’t require a criminal conviction. In fact, you can win a civil lawsuit even if prosecutors never filed charges or if the abuser was acquitted. A criminal conviction for the sex crime can, however, be used as evidence to support a personal injury lawsuit in civil court.
Our lawyers use evidence, expert testimony, and trauma-informed strategy to prove liability under the “preponderance of evidence” standard — that it’s more likely than not the abuse occurred.
Center:
Injured by a medical provider? Check out our medical malpractice knowledge center to learn more about medical malpractice cases.
Criminal Cases vs Sex Abuse Cases in Civil Court
While both avenues aim to address wrongdoing, they have distinct purposes, procedures, and outcomes.
The differences between criminal and civil court proceedings for sexual abuse cases include:
Purpose
The primary purpose of criminal court is to prosecute and punish the perpetrator for violating laws. It focuses on determining guilt and imposing penalties, including imprisonment, fines, probation, or sex offender registration.
In civil court, the primary purpose is to seek financial compensation and redress for the harm suffered due to sexual abuse. It aims to provide financial relief to the victim and, in some cases, hold third parties accountable for their role in the abuse.
Initiator
Criminal cases are initiated by the state or government through a prosecutor who brings charges against the abuser.
Civil cases are initiated by the victim (plaintiff) who files a lawsuit against the abuser and any other parties who can be held responsible for the abuse.
Standard of Proof
Criminal cases require proof beyond a reasonable doubt, meaning the evidence must be strong and convincing to establish guilt.
In civil cases, the burden of proof is lower. The plaintiff must establish the defendant’s liability by a preponderance of evidence, indicating it is more likely than not that the abuse occurred.
Penalties & Remedies
If the accused is convicted in criminal court, he or she may face incarceration, fines, probation, or other penalties determined by the judge, along with the possibility of sex offender registration.
In civil court, successful plaintiffs can recover monetary damages to compensate for medical expenses, therapy costs, pain and suffering, and other related financial losses. Additionally, civil cases can hold institutions or third parties accountable for negligence.
Victim Involvement
Victims may participate in the criminal process as witnesses, but they do not have control over the State’s decision to press charges, or whether plea bargains are accepted.
In civil court, victims have more control over the process. They can decide whether to file a lawsuit, when or if they should settle, and whether to proceed to trial or drop the case.
The differences between criminal and civil court proceedings for sexual abuse cases include:
Purpose
The primary purpose of criminal court is to prosecute and punish the perpetrator for violating laws. It focuses on determining guilt and imposing penalties, including imprisonment, fines, probation, or sex offender registration.
Initiator
Criminal cases are initiated by the state or government through a prosecutor who brings charges against the abuser.
Standard of Proof
Criminal cases require proof beyond a reasonable doubt, meaning the evidence must be strong and convincing to establish guilt.
Penalties & Remedies
If the accused is convicted in criminal court, he or she may face incarceration, fines, probation, or other penalties determined by the judge, along with the possibility of sex offender registration.
Victim Involvement
Victims may participate in the criminal process as witnesses, but they do not have control over the State’s decision to press charges, or whether plea bargains are accepted.
Purpose
In civil court, the primary purpose is to seek financial compensation and redress for the harm suffered due to sexual abuse. It aims to provide financial relief to the victim and, in some cases, hold third parties accountable for their role in the abuse.
Initiator
Civil cases are initiated by the victim (plaintiff) who files a lawsuit against the abuser and any other parties who can be held responsible for the abuse.
Standard of Proof
In civil cases, the burden of proof is lower. The plaintiff must establish the defendant’s liability by a preponderance of evidence, indicating it is more likely than not that the abuse occurred.
Penalties & Remedies
In civil court, successful plaintiffs can recover monetary damages to compensate for medical expenses, therapy costs, pain and suffering, and other related financial losses. Additionally, civil cases can hold institutions or third parties accountable for negligence.
Victim Involvement
In civil court, victims have more control over the process. They can decide whether to file a lawsuit, when or if they should settle, and whether to proceed to trial or drop the case.
Both systems serve justice — but in different ways.
Criminal courts punish offenders, while civil courts empower survivors to rebuild their lives through compensation and accountability. At Ankin Law, our Chicago sexual abuse attorneys often coordinate civil actions that complement criminal proceedings, ensuring abusers and negligent institutions face consequences on every front.
Who Can Be Held Responsible for Sexual Abuse?
Liability doesn’t stop with the abuser. In Chicago and throughout Illinois, multiple parties may share responsibility when they fail to protect victims or enable misconduct.
Those who can be held accountable include:
- Abusers and perpetrators themselves
- Schools, churches, and youth organizations that ignored warning signs
- Employers and supervisors who allowed harassment or abuse to continue
- Nursing homes, hospitals, and care facilities that failed to safeguard vulnerable individuals
- Property owners and security companies who provided negligent security
Ankin Law brings claims against major institutions, religious organizations, and private companies whose negligence contributed to abuse.
Can I sue an organization if my abuser worked there?
Yes. Under Illinois premises liability and negligent supervision laws, institutions can be held responsible for failing to protect you.
Call (312) 600-0000 to discuss your case confidentially. Our sexual abuse lawyers will pursue every responsible party, no matter how powerful they are.
Holding an Institution Liable for Sexual Assault
Institutions, such as schools, businesses, or organizations, can be held responsible if they failed to protect individuals from sexual assault due to negligence or inadequate safety measures. When schools, hospitals, or other organizations look the other way, they become part of the abuse.
To prove institutional liability, survivors must show:
- The institution had a duty of care to protect you.
- That duty was breached through negligence or misconduct.
- The breach directly led to your assault or abuse.
Our attorneys have taken on some of the most complex civil sexual assault cases in Illinois. We subpoena records, expose cover-ups, and demand accountability from every individual and entity involved.
What if the institution denies responsibility?
Our investigation uncovers patterns of negligence, hiring failures, ignored complaints, or concealment that can prove liability even when institutions deny it.
“No institution gets a free pass. When they profit from the public’s trust as a school, a church, or a hospital, they carry a duty to protect people. We’ll make sure they honor it.”
Types of Sexual Abuse Claims
Sexual abuse doesn’t fit into a single category. Ankin Law handles all forms of sexual misconduct cases, each requiring unique legal strategy and sensitivity.
Common types of sexual abuse cases include:
Child Sexual Abuse
Child sexual abuse involves the exploitation of minors for sexual gratification. It can occur within families, schools, religious institutions, sports groups, or other organized settings. Legal claims often focus on proving that the abuse took place and holding the perpetrator accountable, which may include both criminal and civil proceedings.
Workplace Sexual Harassment
This type of abuse occurs in a professional environment, where an employee is subjected to unwelcome sexual advances, comments, or conduct by a colleague, supervisor, or employer. Victims may file claims against the abuser to seek compensation and stop the harassment, while employers can also be held liable for failing to address or prevent such behavior.
General Sexual Assault
Sexual assault involves non-consensual sexual contact or activity. These cases arise from attacks that occur in public or private settings against a non-consenting adult. Claims for sexual assault may be brought against the perpetrator, and they can result in criminal charges and civil lawsuits.
Campus Sexual Assault
In a university or college setting, allegations of sexual assault can give rise to campus disciplinary proceedings and civil lawsuits. Title IX regulations require institutions to address such cases and, if they fail to do so properly, they can be held liable for mishandling the allegations.
Religious Institutions and Clergy Abuse
This involves sexual abuse perpetrated by figures within religious organizations. Victims may sue the institution for failing to protect them and for harboring abusive clergy. Numerous cases have been brought against various religious institutions, resulting in substantial settlements.
Sexual Abuse in Sports Organizations
Sexual abuse claims can arise in sports organizations, particularly concerning young athletes. These claims often allege that coaches, trainers, or other officials engaged in abusive behavior. Victims may seek compensation for damages and hold both the abuser and the organization accountable.
Sexual Abuse in Healthcare
Healthcare providers may engage in sexual abuse or misconduct towards their patients. Victims can bring claims against the individual healthcare worker and the medical institution, arguing that they failed to protect them from harm.
Elder Sexual Abuse
Elder sexual abuse involves the mistreatment of vulnerable elderly individuals. This can occur in nursing homes, care facilities, or even within families. Legal action may be taken to protect the elderly and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Sex Trafficking and Exploitation
Victims of sex trafficking and exploitation may bring claims against the traffickers and those who enable or profit from such activities. These cases often focus on criminal prosecutions, but victims may also seek compensation through civil lawsuits.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sexual Abuse Cases
Will I Have to See My Abuser in Court?
In many cases, survivors can testify via video or from a separate room. Our attorneys will fight for accommodations that protect your emotional safety.
How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Sexual Abuse Lawyer?
At Ankin Law, you pay nothing unless we win. We work on a contingency fee basis, because justice shouldn’t depend on your bank account.
How Long Do I Have to Sue for Sexual Abuse?
Illinois eliminated the statute of limitations for sexual abuse claims in 2013. That means survivors can come forward at any time, no matter how long ago the abuse occurred. Associated claims, such as those for negligent security cases, may still have deadlines, however.
I was recommended to Ankin Law by a friend, and I honestly have no bad things to say! They were beyond helpful and willing to answer any comment or concern I had from day one. I was helped and guided through any steps I had to take, and I can honestly say Ankin Law will forever be my first choice!
Helpful Resources From Our Chicago Sexual Abuse Lawyers
- Illinois Attorney General Crime Victims Services: Support and financial assistance
- Chicago Rape Crisis Hotline: 1-888-293-2080
- Cook County Circuit Court Victim Advocacy: Guidance for civil filings
- Ankin Law’s Civil Rights and Negligent Security Attorneys: Additional legal support for related claims
“We’ve spent decades fighting for the people of Chicago — from factory workers to families to survivors of unthinkable trauma. No matter who you are or where you come from, when you walk through our doors, your fight becomes ours. That’s what ‘Injury Law Made Personal’ really means.”
If you’re a survivor of sexual abuse, you are not alone. Call (312) 600-0000 for a free, confidential consultation with a Chicago sexual abuse lawyer who will fight relentlessly for your justice and your healing. Our office, located just minutes from the Richard J. Daley Center, serve clients across Cook County, DuPage County, and throughout Illinois.