Chicago Sexual Abuse Victims Lawyer

In addition to the criminal law processes that seek to punish the sexual abusers, the civil justice system can be used to compensate the victims of sexual abuse. Oftentimes, the predator and those entities and/or individuals who were aware or should have been aware of the abuse can be held accountable through the filing of a civil claim filed by a Chicago sexual abuse victims lawyer.

The sexual abuse survivor can file a claim and seek compensation for medical and psychological treatment and for pain, suffering, and emotional distress, among other remedies. If you or a loved one wishes to discuss potential civil legal options as a result of sexual abuse, we will listen in a confidential setting and offer our advice regarding your legal options.

Why Choose Loizzi Law Offices?

The trial-ready attorneys at Loizzi Law Offices understand the emotional trauma that follows sexual abuse. Survivors come to us seeking justice and accountability. We take the time to learn their stories so we can give them a voice and a path toward fair compensation for the harm and setbacks they have endured.

We are proud of the cases we’ve won and the proven results we’ve brought to our past clients. This work is a calling for our firm, and we approach every case with the attention it deserves. If you are ready to work with a team that offers boutique-level accessibility and the insight of attorneys with decades of litigation experience, we would be honored to represent you in your pursuit of justice.

Who Can Be Held Liable

Civil liability for sexual assault often extends far beyond the individual who committed the act. Illinois law allows claims against any person or institution that created the conditions for the abuse. A sexual abuse attorney can help you identify the supervision failures or decisions that allowed the abuse to occur.

• Individuals. The abuser and anyone who facilitated the misconduct or failed to report it could be held liable for the harm you endured.
• Employers. Survivors can bring civil actions under the Illinois Gender Violence Act, with a seven-year limit for most acts and four years when filing a claim against employers.
• Schools and local public entities. Institutions may be liable when they fail to supervise, report, or protect students, but the Tort Immunity Act requires notice within one year, making these cases extremely time-sensitive.
• Churches and youth organizations. Organizations can be responsible for negligent hiring, screening, or supervision within youth programs, ministries, or volunteer settings.
• Property owners and negligent security. Liability can arise when unsafe apartments, garages, or commercial spaces create opportunities for assault due to poor lighting, weak access control, or a lack of security.

At Loizzi Law Offices, we investigate policies, hiring decisions, prior complaints, reporting failures, and supervision practices to identify every party that contributed to the harm.

What to Do Now: A Step-by-Step Guide for Victims of Sexual Assault

Chicago sees significant numbers of sexual assault reports (2,056 cases in 2021, up from 1,612 in 2020), and even with a 1% decrease in early 2025, crimes remain heavily under-reported. Taking the right steps now protects your health, preserves critical evidence, and strengthens your legal options, whether the assault happened in Hyde Park, Albany Park, or the Near West Side.

Seek medical care immediately. You can request a medical forensic exam under Illinois’s Sexual Assault Survivors Emergency Treatment Act (SASETA). Hospitals must offer this care promptly, and medical staff will collect evidence even if you choose not to involve the police.

If a child is at risk: call Illinois DCFS at 1-800-25-ABUSE (1-800-252-2873).

• Preserve evidence: Keep clothing, screenshots, messages, or photos. Write down everything you remember as soon as possible.
• Seek confidential support: YWCA Metropolitan Chicago hotline (888-293-2080) and ICASA centers provide 24/7 crisis services statewide.
• Talk to a lawyer early, especially if a school or public entity may be liable due to Illinois’s shorter time limits.

Why You Should Hire a Sexual Abuse Victims Lawyer

Sexual abuse cases are complex and highly emotional. When you hire a sexual abuse victims lawyer, you gain the support of an advocate who has helped survivors of sexual abuse secure the accountability they deserve. Justice can come in the form of compensation when you are represented by someone who understands sexual abuse laws and how to hold sexual predators accountable in court.

During a difficult time, your attorney can provide more than legal insight. They can support you and provide the encouragement you need to see your case through.

FAQs

Q: What Are My Rights as a Sexual Assault Victim?

A: Your rights as a sexual assault victim include the right to hold your attacker accountable. This can happen when the assailant faces criminal charges or civil liabilities. While victims cannot control whether their attacker is charged criminally, they can take decisive action by filing a civil claim seeking fair compensation for the lasting harm they endured.

Q: Can an Institution Be Held Liable for Sexual Abuse?

A: Yes, an institution can be held liable for sexual abuse when the victim hires an injury attorney. Large organizations are responsible for the actions of their employees and volunteers. If they fail to screen applicants, establish procedures for spotting and reporting suspected sexual predators, or address complaints, the leadership of the group or organization can be held liable for the harm they cause.

Q: Do Victims of Sexual Abuse Get Compensation?

A: Victims of sexual abuse get compensation when they work with an attorney who handles complex sexual abuse cases. Justice can take the form of a fair settlement or a court verdict. For survivors of abuse who may not have received accountability through the criminal courts, a sexual abuse claim can play a crucial role in holding the sexual predator accountable for the harm they cause.

Q: How Long Does a Sexual Abuse Claim Take?

A: The length of a sexual abuse claim depends on the severity of the accusations, the amount of compensation that is being sought by the victim, and the willingness of the individual or institution to accept responsibility and offer a fair settlement. Direct negotiations can be resolved within months, while court cases can take well over a year to settle or resolve through a trial.

Work With a Trusted Sexual Abuse Firm Focused on Securing Justice and Accountability

Experiencing sexual abuse can affect every part of a person’s life. Survivors deserve support from a legal team that listens and takes the time to understand the full extent of the harm they have suffered. When you work with Loizzi Law Offices, you benefit from our decades of collective experience supporting victims and pursuing accountability from the individuals and institutions responsible for the harm you suffered.

Our attorneys have secured meaningful settlements and jury verdicts for the people we represent and always take on cases with a focus on honesty, preparation, and compassion. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward securing the justice, closure, and financial stability you deserve.