Kansas City Sexual Assault Lawyer

Empathetic Sexual Assault Attorneys Serving Kansas City, Missouri

Our Kansas City sexual assault lawyers at Injury Law Associates, LLC recognize the profound impact that sexual assault can have on an individual’s life. Each year, approximately 433,648 people aged 12 or older are sexually assaulted in the United States, and as reported by RAINN, an American is sexually assaulted every 73 seconds. Tragically, only a small fraction of perpetrators are ever held accountable. That’s why our attorneys have been committed to advocating for the rights of victims since 2005.

While criminal charges may punish the perpetrator, they often fail to address the victim’s needs. As a victim of sexual assault, you have the right to seek compensation through civil action. Our compassionate attorneys are dedicated to holding the perpetrator accountable for the physical and emotional harm they’ve caused, ensuring that you receive just compensation for your suffering.

Criminal Sexual Assault Proceedings vs. Civil Proceedings

When pressing criminal charges for sexual assault, your attorney collaborates with the prosecutor to ensure that the perpetrator is held accountable. In contrast, if you choose to file a civil lawsuit, your attorney’s focus will be on proving that the perpetrator is responsible for your injuries and other damages.

In a criminal sexual assault case, the prosecution must demonstrate that the crime occurred beyond a reasonable doubt—a very high standard of proof. If the prosecution is successful, the defendant may face penalties such as fines, imprisonment, and mandatory registration as a sex offender. However, these criminal penalties do not provide compensation to the victim for the harm suffered. Criminal proceedings are centered on punishing the offender, rather than addressing the victim’s need for healing and restitution.

In a civil case, the lawsuit is filed to seek compensation for the harm caused to the victim, and the burden of proof is lower than in criminal cases. While there is no specific civil action for sexual assault, other legal avenues may be available depending on the circumstances. These could include claims for assault and battery, false imprisonment, intentional infliction of emotional distress, or negligent infliction of emotional distress.

Additionally, a third party may also be held liable if they contributed to the assault, such as a hotel or nightclub with inadequate security, or an employer who failed to properly screen employees. A Kansas City sexual assault lawyer will thoroughly evaluate all the factors involved in the case and recommend the best course of action to pursue your claim.

Compensation for Sexual Assault Survivors

According to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, nearly one in five women and one in seventy-one men in the United States have been raped at some point in their lives. Our attorneys understand the widespread nature of sexual assault and are dedicated to helping victims in every way possible. While financial compensation cannot erase the physical and emotional damage caused by sexual assault, it can help cover expenses and offer a sense of justice for the survivor.

Sexual assault can lead to numerous injuries and losses, such as cuts, abrasions, lacerations, injuries from the assault or restraints, sexually transmitted diseases, unwanted pregnancies, and psychological effects like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. Compensation can help cover the costs of medical treatment, emergency care, psychological or psychiatric support, and lost wages, as well as offer redress for pain, suffering, and emotional distress. In some cases, survivors may also be eligible to pursue punitive damages, aimed at punishing the offender and preventing future misconduct.

Contact Our Kansas City Sexual Assault Lawyer Today

At Injury Law Associates, LLC, our Kansas City sexual assault attorneys are committed to providing compassionate support and legal assistance to survivors of sexual assault. We recognize the profound and lasting impact of such a traumatic experience, and we approach each case with sensitivity and care. Our consultations are confidential and free of charge, offering you an opportunity to discuss the specifics of your case and explore all possible legal options. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay legal fees if we successfully obtain compensation for you. Don’t wait—contact our Kansas City sexual assault lawyer today to receive the help and support you deserve.