Florida Sexual Abuse & Assault Lawyers

Sexual abuse is a serious crime in Florida, and the state has extended the statute of limitations for survivors to pursue criminal charges and civil lawsuits, giving them additional time to come forward, seek justice, and hold perpetrators and responsible institutions accountable.

At Kayla’s Survivors, our law firm represents survivors of sexual abuse and assault in Florida. Our attorneys have helped recover over $1 billion in compensation as a result of settlements and verdicts, including claims made against doctors, priests and their associated churches, schools, juvenile detention centers, and various other institutions. When you’re ready, call (800) 509-9747 or get help online from our legal team. Together, we can hold individuals and institutions accountable.

Types of Sexual Abuse & Assault Cases in Florida

At Kayla’s Survivors, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to survivors throughout the state of Florida. Our attorneys handle a range of cases, recognizing that each survivor’s experience is unique and requires personalized support. Our commitment is to hold perpetrators accountable and secure the justice our clients deserve, including the following case types:

• Child Sexual Abuse: These cases often involve a position of trust or authority, such as a family member, teacher, religious leader, or coach. The long-term trauma associated with child sexual abuse requires specialized legal counsel.
• Sexual Harassment: Unwelcome sexual advances, unwanted sexual acts, sexual battery, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature create a hostile environment and can constitute sexual harassment, particularly in workplaces or educational settings.
• Institutional Abuse: This type of abuse occurs within institutions like schools, prisons, or religious organizations, often involving a pattern of abuse perpetrated by multiple individuals or facilitated by systemic failures.
• Clergy Abuse: Sexual abuse by members of the clergy represents a profound betrayal of trust and often involves unique legal complexities. In Florida, more than 100 priests have been accused of abuse, including Miami, Orlando, and St. Petersburg.
• Online Sexual Abuse: This includes the distribution of child sexual abuse material and other forms of online sexual exploitation.
• Sexual Exploitation: Abuse of power or trust to coerce someone into sexual activity.

Pursuing Legal Action in Florida

Survivors of sexual abuse in Florida may have multiple paths available to seek accountability, protection, and healing. A knowledgeable Florida sexual abuse attorney can help you understand which options align with your goals and circumstances, including:

• Filing a Civil Sexual Abuse Lawsuit: Florida law allows survivors to pursue civil claims against abusers and, in many cases, against institutions whose negligence enabled the abuse. This allows survivors a path to financial recovery while also creating accountability outside Florida’s criminal justice system.
• Reporting Abuse to Florida Law Enforcement: Some survivors choose to report abuse to local police or state authorities to obtain protection or initiate an investigation. Reporting does not require a commitment to pursue charges and can be done independently of a civil case.
• Title IX Claims for Florida Schools & Universities: When sexual abuse or assault occurs in a school, college, or university, survivors may be able to pursue relief under Title IX. This federal law applies to Florida educational institutions that receive federal funding and requires them to address sex-based misconduct.
• Institutional or Employer Investigations: In certain cases, Florida employers, religious organizations, or youth programs may be required to conduct internal investigations. While these processes do not replace legal action, they may uncover evidence of misconduct or systemic failures.
• Counseling, Therapy, and Survivor Support Resources: Accessing trauma-informed counseling and survivor support groups can be a critical part of recovery. Florida survivors have access to therapists and advocacy organizations that provide confidential support alongside any legal steps taken.

At Kayla’s Survivors, our lawyers encourage survivors to pursue justice based on the unique circumstances of their case. Request a free case evaluation online from our team to better understand your legal option, and see how we can help you. All communications are completely free and 100% confidential.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can an attorney help with my case?

A Florida sexual abuse attorney can evaluate your legal options, gather evidence, identify all liable parties, and handle communications with institutions and insurers. An attorney can also file a civil lawsuit on your behalf while prioritizing your privacy and well-being.

Note: Our sexual abuse attorneys work on a contingency-fee basis, meaning there are no upfront costs or legal fees. We only get paid if you win.

How long do I have to file a civil claim?

Florida has extended the statute of limitations for many sexual abuse claims, particularly those involving childhood abuse. The time available to file depends on factors such as your age at the time of abuse and when the harm was discovered, making it important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible.

Who can be held liable for sexual abuse?

In Florida, liability may extend beyond the individual abuser to include schools, churches, youth organizations, employers, medical facilities, or other institutions that failed to prevent, report, or address known risks of sexual abuse.