Sexual assault causes harm that extends far beyond the physical injuries. Survivors often face lasting psychological trauma, financial strain from medical and therapeutic care, and significant disruption to their daily lives. If you are dealing with the consequences of sexual violence, a Richmond sexual assault injury lawyer at MichieHamlett can help you take legal action against those responsible. Reaching out to a personal injury attorney is a critical step, and we treat every case with the confidentiality and respect you deserve.

The criminal justice system serves a different purpose than a civil lawsuit. Even if prosecutors pursue charges, a criminal conviction alone does not compensate you for your losses. A civil claim allows you to seek financial recovery for medical bills, therapy, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Our firm has spent over 75 years fighting for victims across Virginia, and we bring that same commitment to every case we handle.

What Qualifies as Sexual Assault Under State Law?

Under Code of Virginia § 18.2-67.4, sexual battery is defined as the intentional sexual abuse of another person through force, threat, intimidation, or ruse. State law also addresses more serious offenses, which include rape and related crimes. In all cases, the absence of consent is the defining legal element.

A criminal conviction is not required to pursue a civil claim. Civil actions operate on a lower standard of proof, meaning that even when criminal charges are not filed, a sexual assault injury attorney in Richmond can still file a claim on a survivor’s behalf. Our team can evaluate the facts of your case and explain every available option.

Who Else Can Be Held Responsible for a Sexual Assault?

The person who committed sexual assault is not always the only liable party. Property owners, businesses, and employers all have a responsibility to prevent foreseeable harm. Under Va. Code § 8.01-42.6, an employer can be held accountable when an employee causes injury to a vulnerable victim in the course of their duties.

A Richmond sexual assault injury attorney can investigate beyond the individual attacker to identify every liable party and strengthen your claim. Our team will examine all potential sources of liability, including premises liability claims against property owners and negligent hiring or supervision claims against employers, to build a strong case and seek appropriate compensation.

The Statute of Limitations for Sexual Assault Claims

Timing is critical in any civil lawsuit, and the state sets specific deadlines for sexual assault claims. Under Va. Code § 8.01-243(D), survivors of childhood sexual abuse have until their 38th birthday to file. For survivors who were 18 or older at the time of the abuse and whose abuser held a position of authority, the filing window extends to 15 years. In other adult cases, state law generally requires a lawsuit to be filed within two years of the assault.

A Richmond attorney at MichieHamlett will identify which deadline applies to your sexual assault injury case and act quickly to file before any window closes.

Contact a Richmond Sexual Assault Injury Attorney for Help

If you have suffered sexual abuse, you should not have to face the legal process on your own. A Richmond sexual assault injury lawyer at MichieHamlett will work aggressively to build a thorough case while you focus on healing and recovery. Our firm has proven experience securing substantial recoveries for Virginia injury victims. 

Our free, confidential consultations allow you to discuss your case with no pressure or obligation. Contact us today to take the first step toward the compensation you deserve.