Surviving sexual assault is a life-altering experience, and the path forward is not always clear. Beyond the physical and emotional harm, survivors often face medical bills, lost income, and long-term psychological consequences. A Roanoke sexual assault injury lawyer can review your case and pursue the compensation you deserve under state law.

Civil cases for sexual assault operate independently of any criminal proceedings. A conviction, a plea, or even a decision not to prosecute has no bearing on your right to file a civil claim. Our personal injury attorneys at MichieHamlett are prepared to build a case on your behalf, whether you are just beginning to consider your options or have already reported the assault to law enforcement.

Civil Claims Against Sexual Assault Perpetrators and Third Parties

Virginia law allows survivors to pursue civil claims not only against the individual who committed the assault but also against third parties whose negligence contributed to the harm. Parties that owe a duty to provide reasonably safe premises include:

  • Hotels
  • Apartment buildings
  • Parking structures
  • Institutions throughout the city

When a property owner fails to take appropriate precautions, their negligence can be a proximate cause of an assault on their premises.

If you suffered an injury from a sexual assault in Roanoke, a skilled lawyer can pursue all available theories of liability, including negligent security claims. Our team has decades of combined experience litigating complex personal injury cases across the state, and we bring that same standard to every sexual assault injury matter we handle. When we cannot reach a fair resolution through settlement, we are fully prepared to try your case before the Roanoke City Circuit Court.

What Damages Can You Recover After a Sexual Assault?

Sexual assault survivors often face losses that extend well beyond the initial incident. Under Virginia law, compensable damages can include:

  • Medical bills
  • Mental health treatment
  • Lost wages
  • Pain and suffering

The recovery available will depend on the scope of your injuries and the particular facts of your case. Our team at MichieHamlett will document every loss you have sustained and work to present the strongest possible case for your full recovery.

Our experienced sexual assault injury attorneys in Roanoke prepare every case as though it will go to trial, and we have secured substantial verdicts and settlements in serious personal injury cases across the commonwealth.

Understanding the Statute of Limitations for Your Sexual Assault Claim

State law provides extended filing windows for survivors of sexual assault. Under Virginia Code § 8.01-243(D), survivors of childhood sexual abuse have 20 years after the cause of action accrues to file a civil lawsuit, while adult survivors whose assault occurred on or after July 1, 2020, have 10 years. Va. Code § 8.01-243(D2) extends that period to 15 years when the perpetrator held a position of authority. A Roanoke sexual assault injury attorney can evaluate which deadline applies to your circumstances.

Despite these extended windows, acting promptly can give our team the best opportunity to preserve evidence and build the strongest possible claim on your behalf.

Contact a Roanoke Sexual Assault Injury Attorney Today

Taking legal action after a sexual assault is a powerful act, and our team is honored to stand with survivors and help them move forward. You deserve comprehensive legal support from a firm that will fight for you from the first consultation through final resolution. At MichieHamlett, we will listen to your story, explain your rights, and pursue every avenue for compensation available under Virginia law. Contact us to schedule a consultation with a Roanoke sexual assault injury lawyer today.