Michigan Sexual Abuse Attorneys
Kayla’s Survivors is a national sexual abuse and assault law firm that provides legal support to survivors throughout the state of Michigan. Our attorneys have helped recover over $1 billion in compensation for survivors as a result of settlements and verdicts. Anyone who has experienced sexual abuse, assault, or misconduct (whether as a child or adult) in the state of Michigan may be eligible to pursue a civil claim for compensation – even if the perpetrator has never been criminally charged or prosecuted.
Survivors of sexual abuse in Michigan can file a civil lawsuit against the individual abuser and any associated institution that failed to prevent the abuse or assault. These lawsuits can result in significant financial compensation, and hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions. If you are a survivor of sexual abuse and have a potential case, call (800) 509-9747 or get help online from our legal team at Kayla’s Survivors.
Understanding Civil Lawsuits For Sexual Abuse, Assault, and Rape in the State of Michigan
While criminal prosecution is one possible path to holding abusers accountable, survivors of sexual abuse in Michigan may have several other legal options available depending on the circumstances of their case, which may include:
- Civil Lawsuit: A Michigan sexual abuse attorney can help you pursue a civil claim against the abuser and, in many cases, the institution or organization that enabled the abuse. Civil lawsuits focus on accountability and financial compensation to support healing and recovery.
- Reporting to Law Enforcement: Although reporting is a personal decision and not right for everyone, survivors may choose to file a police report with Michigan law enforcement. This option can provide protection and initiate a criminal investigation, even if charges are not ultimately filed.
- Title IX Complaints: If the abuse occurred in a school, college, or a university setting, survivors may be able to file a Title IX complaint, which is a federal law that prohibits sex-based discrimination, including sexual assault and misconduct, in educational programs that receive federal funding.
- Internal or Institutional Investigations: Certain organizations such as workplaces, churches, youth organizations, or medical facilities may conduct internal investigations into allegations of sexual misconduct.
- Therapy & Survivor Support Services: Accessing trauma-informed therapy and survivor support groups can be a helpful throughout the healing process. The state of Michigan offers several options including
Survivors deserve justice and support in whatever form feels right to them. An experienced Michigan sexual abuse attorney at Kayla’s Survivors can help you better understand your legal options, pursue a civil claim, connect you with medical and emotional support resources, and keep your identity private if you choose to remain anonymous throughout the case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a lawsuit be filed against a school, hospital, or church for covering up sexual abuse?
Yes, institutional sexual abuse is unfortunately common, and a claim can be filed against any organization that failed to act on taking preventative measures or otherwise allowed the abuse to continue.
What if the abuse happened years ago?
Many survivors repress memories or delay reporting various forms of abuse and assault due to fear, trauma, or institutional cover-ups. Senate Bill 872 extended Michigan’s deadline to 10 years, which is known as Michigan’s statute of limitations for sexual abuse, assault, and rape.
Can I remain anonymous in a sexual abuse lawsuit?
Yes, many survivors choose to file under a pseudonym (such as “Jane Doe” or “John Doe”) to protect their privacy. A Michigan sexual abuse lawyer can help ensure your rights and privacy are protected throughout the legal process.
What if the abuser was never charged criminally?
Even if the abuse was never criminally charged, you can still file a civil lawsuit. Civil cases require a lower burden of proof, making it easier to hold perpetrators accountable.
How much does it cost to hire a sexual abuse lawyer?
As a sexual abuse law firm, the attorneys at Kayla’s Survivors work on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront costs or legal fees. Our lawyers only get paid if we win your case.
Areas Served
- Ann Arbor
- Detroit
- Grand Rapids
- Warren
- Sterling Heights
Michigan Laws For Sexual Abuse, Assault, and Rape
Statute of Limitations
Under Michigan law, survivors of sex crimes may be eligible to pursue legal action under a civil lawsuit, which must be filed before the deadline. This time limit is known as the Michigan statute of limitations, and varies based on several factors (including the nature of the crime and age of the survivor). A lawyer can help you better understand your legal options and file a claim on time.
Age of Consent
In the state of Michigan, the age of consent is 16, meaning that an individual must be at least that age to legally engage in sexual acts. Children who are engaged under the age of consent may be eligible to file a civil lawsuit for sexual abuse, assault, or misconduct against their abuser and institution (such as a school) that failed to adequately protect and prevent the abuse.
Filing A Claim
Anyone who has suffered sexual abuse, assault, or misconduct in the state of Michigan may be eligible to file a civil lawsuit. Whether the incident happened as an adult or as a child, this includes rape, sexual assault, sexual exploitation, unwanted contact, coercion, grooming, and other forms of non-consensual sexual behavior like human trafficking and online privacy violations.
Practice Areas & Michigan Sexual Abuse Claims
Combined, our attorneys have decades of experience in handling sexual abuse claims and have helped clients recover over $1 billion in compensation as a result of settlements and verdicts.
Get Legal Help From A Michigan Law Office
Contact one of our Michigan law offices, or get a free case evaluation online from our legal team – 100% confidential.