At Koller Baker & Associates, we stand with adult survivors of sexual abuse. Sexual abuse involving adults can happen in a variety of settings and under a variety of circumstances. When it occurs, survivors deserve more than accountability for their abusers—they deserve the resources and compensation needed to heal. Our experienced attorneys understand the unique challenges adult survivors face, and we are here to help you take the steps toward holding perpetrators and enablers accountable through a civil lawsuit.
Lawyers for Adult Survivors of Sexual Abuse
OKLAHOMA
Our Oklahoma Lawsuit Services for Adult Survivors of Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse or assault can take many forms, and in some cases, a civil lawsuit provides an opportunity to seek justice and accountability. Often, another person or entity that allowed the abuse may also be held responsible. For instance, an apartment complex should provide adequate security to its residents in order to prevent criminal abuse or assault.
Where there is unequal power or control, acquiescence may not be consent. For instance, individuals in positions of trust – such as mental health therapists, physicians, lawyers, clergy, police officers and others – should never make sexual contact with a person in their professional relationship.
At Koller Baker & Associates, we’ve represented adult survivors of sexual abuse in Oklahoma who have been through a variety of different experiences:
Abuse of power by professionals, such as doctors, therapists, clergy, or law enforcement.
Inadequate security at apartments, hotels, or other premises leading to sexual abuse or assault.
Sexual abuse in institutional settings like hospitals, nursing homes, or rehabilitation centers.
Unlike criminal cases, which focus on punishing perpetrators, civil lawsuits are about empowering survivors. We pursue compensation for damages such as medical costs, therapy expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering while holding perpetrators and those who enabled the abuse accountable.
Our team is here to provide legal support with care and understanding while fighting relentlessly for your rights.
Filing a Lawsuit After the Perpetrator is Acquitted
The outcome of a criminal case does not prevent a survivor from filing a civil lawsuit. In Oklahoma, civil cases operate on a lower standard of proof than criminal cases. While criminal charges require evidence “beyond a reasonable doubt,” civil cases only need proof “by a preponderance of the evidence,” meaning it is more likely than not that the abuse occurred.
Even if the perpetrator was acquitted in criminal court, you can still seek justice through a civil lawsuit. In fact, it is often the case that survivors come to file a civil lawsuit as a second line of defense after they have been failed by the criminal justice system.
Additionally, a civil suit allows survivors to hold third parties—such as employers, property owners, or institutions—accountable for enabling or failing to prevent the abuse. Filing a civil lawsuit gives survivors the opportunity to pursue the compensation and acknowledgment they deserve, regardless of the criminal trial’s outcome.
Potential Defendants in a Civil Sexual Abuse of Adults Lawsuit
Civil sexual abuse cases often extend beyond suing the perpetrator. At Koller Baker & Associates, we investigate every potential avenue for accountability, including third parties who may have facilitated the abuse or failed to prevent it. Possible defendants include:
- The perpetrator: The individual who committed the abuse.
- Property owners: For failing to provide adequate security to prevent abuse on their premises. This can include private residences, such as apartments or motels, or retail establishments, such as shopping malls or restaurants.
- Therapists, doctors, or other professionals: For exploiting positions of trust or authority.
- Institutions: Such as hospitals, nursing homes, or mental health facilities where abuse occurred.
At Koller Baker & Associates, our experienced team of civil sexual abuse lawyers will meticulously analyze your case to identify all responsible parties and build a strong case to hold them accountable.
What Our Oklahoma Clients Say
Our family is so grateful for the services that this team provided when no one else would. Thank you for sticking with us and for getting justice for our brother.
- Lonnie C.
This team is capable and leaves no stone unturned. The best decision I made was hiring this team for my case.
- Mary W.
Ben and his staff are amazing. If I ever need an attorney again, Ben will be my first call.
- Kenny E.
Laurie is a true advocate for her clients. Her passion and dedication for helping victims is unparalleled. Thank you Laurie for being a fearless leader in creating change.
- Lexlee O.
Our Oklahoma Civil Sexual Abuse of Adults Lawsuit Process
STEP 1
Contact us to discuss your case, ask questions, and get a clear understanding of your legal options.
STEP 2
We’ll analyze your situation, set expectations, and create a tailored plan to help you take control.
STEP 3
From negotiation to trial, we’ll be with you every step of the way, advocating for the best possible outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between criminal and civil cases for sexual abuse?
Criminal cases aim to punish the perpetrator and are prosecuted by the state of Oklahoma. Civil lawsuits seek compensation for the survivor and are initiated by the survivor or their attorney.
Can I file a civil lawsuit even if I never reported the abuse to law enforcement?
Yes, reporting the abuse to law enforcement is not a requirement for filing a civil lawsuit. Civil cases are independent of criminal investigations.
Can I sue someone other than the perpetrator?
Yes, third parties such as employers, landlords, or institutions that facilitated or failed to prevent the abuse can also be held accountable in a civil lawsuit.
Will my case go to trial?
Many civil cases settle before trial. Some survivors find this preferable, because it means there’s no chance they will have to face their abuser in court. Our attorneys prepare every case as if it will go to court, just in case, to ensure you have the strongest possible representation. But ultimately, the power lies with the survivor to decide when and how to settle the case.
What if I don’t remember all the details of the abuse?
Survivors often have difficulty recalling every detail due to trauma. Our team works with experts to gather evidence and build your case, even if some memories are incomplete.
Contact an Oklahoma Lawyer for Adult Survivors of Sexual Abuse Today
If you are an adult survivor of sexual abuse, you have the right to seek justice and accountability. At Koller Baker & Associates, we are dedicated to helping survivors take back their power by holding those who wronged them accountable. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation.
