Oklahoma Sexual Assault Attorney

Every year, thousands of people become the victims of sexual crimes. Sexual assault, molestation, and rape can occur in the streets, but many cases occur right at home, at school, or in the workplace. The majority of sexual abuse victims report the assailants as people close to them, such as friends or relatives. What many victims don’t know is that they can file civil charges against the person responsible. While sexual assault, rape, and molestation are crimes in the state of Oklahoma, they are also civil wrongdoings. If you or a loved one has been the victim of a sex crime, our lawyers can help you through the civil claims process.

Sexual Abuse as a Civil Tort

Sexual abuse is one of the most traumatic experiences someone can endure in a lifetime. It can cause physical injuries, but it is the emotional damage that really harms the victim. Emotional and psychological trauma can last far longer than physical scars. Sexual assault, molestation, and rape victims may need years of therapy or counseling to overcome or at least cope with their traumas. The pain and suffering damages of sexual abuse victims can be immense.

At Bryan & Terrill Law, we represent victims of sexual crimes during civil lawsuits against abusers or other parties. While we know a monetary sum will not help ease a victim’s physical pain or emotional suffering, a lawsuit can offer compensation for wrongs and justice for the offending party. A lawsuit can also ease financial worries during this difficult time, so victims can focus on putting their lives back together, instead of medical and therapy bills, missed time at work, and other expenses.

To bring a civil lawsuit against a party for sexual assault, molestation, or rape, you must frame it as an intentional tort, or intentional wrongful act against the victim. You could potentially sue for assault or battery, false imprisonment, or intentional infliction of injuries and emotional distress. It may even be possible to sue a third party, such as a bystander, for negligence. Suing a third party such as an employer or company (e.g., a school that failed to properly screen its employees) can help victims ensure monetary compensation from a party with assets. The assailant him or herself might not have the money to fulfill a compensation demand from the courts.

Proving Your Sexual Assault Case

In Oklahoma, you have two years from the date of the assault or rape to file a personal injury claim with the civil courts. Missing this deadline could mean loss of the ability to file. It can be extremely difficult to come forward with allegations of sexual crimes, but contacting our lawyers as soon as possible is important for your claim. Once you’ve named the defendant(s) of the case and filed your claim with help from an attorney, you must prove your case in front of a judge or jury.

Evidence of sexual crimes may include medical documentation, eyewitness testimony, or the results of a criminal prosecution against the offender. A lawyer can help you understand the specific elements and pieces of evidence in your case. No amount of money can ever replace the true value of what you’ve lost as a sexual abuse victim. However, a suit may be able to bring closure and financial assistance. Speak to an experienced attorney who specializes in sexual assault, molestation, and rape at Bryan & Terrill Law. Call (918) 935-2777 or go online to get in touch with our team for a confidential consultation.