Sexual Abuse Compensation

While no amount of money can erase the pain of a survivor's experience, sexual abuse compensation can help survivors rebuild their lives. It may cover therapy and counseling, medical treatment, lost wages, educational opportunities, and other costs associated with recovery. Importantly, it also provides recognition of the wrong that was committed and holds perpetrators and institutions financially accountable for the damage they caused.

Survivors of sexual abuse live with profound and lasting harm that often extends far beyond the immediate trauma. The emotional, physical, and psychological consequences may linger for decades, shaping relationships, careers, and overall wellbeing. Civil lawsuits provide one of the most effective avenues for survivors to obtain justice in the form of financial compensation. This page provides information on sexual abuse compensation as a whole, as well as links to detailed information on specific types of sexual abuse compensation.

Why Sexual Abuse Compensation Matters

Criminal cases aim to punish offenders, but they rarely address the long-term needs of survivors. A prison sentence for the abuser can provide a sense of justice and protection for the survivor, yet does not cover the cost of years of therapy, nor does it hold negligent institutions accountable for enabling abuse. Civil lawsuits fill this gap by focusing on the survivor's needs.

Through civil litigation, survivors can uncover evidence of systemic negligence, compel institutions to admit wrongdoing, and obtain financial recovery that supports both healing and stability. Sexual abuse compensation is not just about money; it is about restoring power and ensuring that the institutions that failed to protect children and vulnerable adults are forced to change.

Sexual Abuse Compensation and Healing

The damages available in a sexual abuse lawsuit vary depending on the circumstances, but they often include:

  • Medical expenses: Costs for physical care related to abuse.
  • Therapy and counseling: Ongoing psychological support to address trauma.
  • Lost wages or diminished earning capacity: For survivors whose abuse has affected their ability to work or advance in a career.
  • Pain and suffering: Recognition of the emotional and psychological toll.
  • Loss of enjoyment of life: Compensation for the ways abuse has limited personal and family life.

In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish especially reckless or intentional misconduct by institutions or individuals.

Why Take Action?

When you decide to take a stand, it matters—not only for you, but for others. Taking action doesn’t have to look one way. It can be legal, it can be personal, or it can be both. Below are reasons many survivors find meaning, power, and hope in coming forward.

  • For Healing & Acknowledgment
  • To Hold Perpetrators & Institutions Accountable
  • To Seek Justice & Compensation
  • To Prevent Harm to Others
  • Because There’s No Shame in Seeking Justice
Why Take Action Against Abusers
Why Take Action

More Information on Sexual Abuse Compensation

To provide more detail, we've created dedicated pages that explain specific aspects of sexual abuse compensation. Survivors considering legal action may find it helpful to review these resources:

Sexual Abuse Claims

This page explores the broader landscape of sexual abuse lawsuits, including how survivors of any age can pursue claims against individuals and institutions. It explains the difference between criminal and civil cases, outlines the discovery process, and highlights the role these lawsuits play in uncovering institutional coverups. Survivors will also learn how civil claims can drive systemic change and create safer environments for others, in addition to providing much-needed compensation. Read full information on Sexual Abuse Claims.

Child Sexual Abuse Claims

Child sexual abuse is tragically common, and the trauma it causes can shape a survivor's entire life. This section focuses on lawsuits brought on behalf of those who were abused as children, whether recently or decades ago. It discusses how child sexual abuse lawsuits hold schools, churches, youth organizations, and other trusted institutions accountable for ignoring or covering up abuse. Read full information on Child Sexual Abuse Claims.

Statute of Limitations / Lookback Windows

For many survivors, the biggest barrier to filing a lawsuit has been the statute of limitations — the legal deadline for bringing a claim. This page explains how states across the country are reforming these laws, often extending deadlines or creating special "lookback windows" that allow survivors to file lawsuits no matter their age. Understanding these rules is critical, as they determine whether a case can move forward. Survivors who believe too much time has passed may now discover they have a new opportunity to pursue justice. Read full information on Statutes of Limitations by state and new Lookback Windows for Sexual Abuse Claims.

Our Attorneys Are Here For You

At our firm, we are committed to standing beside survivors at every step of the legal process. We have litigated against some of the nation's largest and most powerful institutions. Our attorneys bring deep experience in handling complex, sensitive cases and ensure that survivors' voices are not silenced.

We represent clients on a contingency basis, meaning you will never owe legal fees unless we win compensation on your behalf. Our goal is not only to secure financial recovery but also to empower survivors, uncover the truth, and push institutions toward meaningful change.

Free and Confidential Consultation

If you or a loved one is a survivor of sexual abuse, you may be entitled to compensation. Even if you were told that your time to file a lawsuit has passed, recent changes in the law may give you another opportunity to come forward.

We invite you to contact us for a free, confidential case review. Our attorneys will listen to your story, explain your options, and help you decide whether filing a lawsuit is right for you. There is no obligation, and every conversation is kept private.

Civil compensation cannot erase the past, but it can provide the means for healing and recovery, while holding accountable those who caused harm. Through your courage and action, justice can extend beyond your individual case, creating change that protects others in the future.

Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation. Let us listen, support, and help you move forward toward healing and justice.

OnderLaw
We fight for justice when you can't fight alone.

Finding an experienced legal team that earns your trust is essential. Our attorneys are not only experienced litigators—they are advocates trained to support survivors with empathy and integrity. We understand the sensitive nature of sexual abuse cases and offer trauma-informed representation every step of the way. With decades of experience and a team of expert sexual abuse attorneys, we have the resources and resolve to take on powerful institutions and win. Whether you’re ready to file a lawsuit or are just exploring your options, we are here to listen and help.

What Makes Us Different

Compassionate. Confidential. Expertise.

Coming forward takes courage. Our team honors that courage by offering a safe, supportive, and confidential space to explore your legal options. We never pressure sexual abuse survivors to file a claim. Our attorneys are trauma-informed, responsive, and ready to stand beside you. Whether you're considering legal action or simply want someone to talk to, we are here. You don’t have to take the next step alone. Learn what makes us different.

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Who Can File an Abuse Lawsuit?

Survivors of sexual abuse have the right to pursue justice through a civil lawsuit, even if the abuse occurred many years ago or during childhood. In institutional abuse cases, accountability goes beyond the individual perpetrator. It also extends to the organization that allowed the abuse to happen—whether through negligence, lack of oversight, or deliberate cover-up. Click here to learn more.

How Can We Help You?

Finding the right attorney is easier than you think! Just click the link below, answer a few simple questions about your situation, and we’ll match you to an experienced attorney who can help. There’s no obligation, and you won’t pay a penny unless we win your case.

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