Sexual abuse and assault are recognized under personal injury law as serious violations that can have long-lasting emotional, psychological, and financial impacts. Survivors of sexual abuse endure unimaginable hardships. Their experiences don’t just leave physical scars; they affect one’s emotional, psychological, and financial well-being.
In Ontario, survivors have the legal right to pursue civil personal injury claims against both individuals and institutions responsible for the abuse. When a survivor bravely decides to seek help or pursue legal action, even years later, it is a powerful testament to their strength and resilience.
Representing survivors of sexual abuse
Taking steps to hold an abuser accountable can be both empowering and daunting. Remember, you are not alone. At Siskinds, we are steadfast allies of sexual abuse survivors. Siskinds represents survivors of sexual abuse in claims involving individuals, organizations, and institutions that may be legally responsible. This includes situations where an institution failed to prevent abuse, failed to respond appropriately, or enabled misconduct through negligence or lack of oversight. Your story matters to us. Our role is to help you understand whether you may have a claim, what evidence may be required, and how accountability can be pursued through the civil legal system.
Compassionate legal support for sexual assault cases
Our mission is to guide you through the complex legal process, while minimizing additional stress and trauma. A civil claim for sexual abuse or assault typically involves gathering evidence, assessing institutional responsibility, and pursuing compensation through negotiation or litigation. Each case is different, and timelines can vary depending on the complexity of the claim. Our dedicated and compassionate lawyers prioritize your well-being, working tirelessly to ensure you receive the support you need and deserve.
When you’re ready to discuss your case, we are here to listen and provide guidance. Your initial consultation with one of our sexual abuse personal injury lawyers is free, and completely confidential. There’s no pressure to decide anything until you feel prepared. If you’re looking for a safe space to ask questions and explore your legal options, reach out to us.
No time limit for reporting
In Ontario, there is no time limit for reporting sexual abuse or for pursuing a lawsuit. Whether the incident occurred yesterday or many years ago, you still have the right to seek compensation. Civil claims may be brought against:
- the individual who committed the abuse;
- organizations that employed, supervised, or had authority over that individual; and
- institutions that failed to take reasonable steps to prevent harm.
With our extensive experience helping clients pursue claims against schools, hospitals, religious institutions, recreational groups, and other organizations, we have the knowledge to walk with you in your path to justice.
Securing compensation for survivors of institutional and authority-based sexual abuse
If a survivor chooses to move forward, a civil lawsuit may seek compensation for:
- psychological and emotional harm;
- loss of income or earning capacity;
- costs of therapy and treatment; or
- pain and suffering.
At Siskinds, we can help survivors in cases involving the following types of institutions:
- Institutional Sexual Abuse
- Physician Sexual Abuse
- Historic Sexual Abuse
- Childhood Sexual Abuse
- Children’s Aid and Foster Care Sexual Abuse
- Clergy Sexual Abuse
- Coaches and Sports Abuse
- Teacher Sexual Abuse
- Scouts and Big Brother Programs Abuse
- Military Sexual Abuse
How Siskinds can help
If you were sexually abused by someone in a position of power, you might have a legal claim against the person who hurt you or an organization who may also be responsible.
We have helped survivors, whether the sexual abuse or assault happened once or over a long period of time. We help them understand their best legal options to hold both the abuser and responsible institutions accountable. We give individuals the confidence to stand up for themselves, knowing they are backed by our strong legal expertise. If a survivor decides to sue, we know how to pursue a strong lawsuit to help them with their healing journey.
Trauma-informed personal injury lawyers
When choosing a lawyer for your case, think about their legal knowledge, experience with institutional abuse cases, negotiation skills, and success in getting results. Siskinds has the depth of expertise and are committed to trauma-informed, full-circle care.
If you are a survivor of sexual abuse, our lawyers care about you as a person and will treat you with respect.
If you have questions or need support, please contact us. You deserve justice, and we are here to help you pursue it.
Rasha El-Tawil
Lauren Cullen
Anna Stoll (She/Her)
Sexual Abuse Resources & Legal Guidance
An experienced lawyer can provide invaluable support throughout the legal process. Here are some key points to consider.