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At Simon Law, we stand beside survivors of sexual assault and abuse with compassion, strength, and determination. Our experienced sexual assault attorneys fight to hold perpetrators and negligent institutions accountable. Survivors deserve justice and closure, and we are here to help every step of the way.
Sexual assault takes many forms. Missouri law recognizes a wide range of offenses, each with its own definition and penalties. Survivors may also pursue civil lawsuits to recover damages, regardless of the outcome of a criminal case.
Under Missouri Revised Statute § 566.100, sexual abuse occurs when a person subjects another to sexual contact without consent. This may include unwanted touching, groping, or coercive contact, even if intercourse does not occur. Survivors often experience lasting emotional and psychological harm, and the law allows for both criminal prosecution and civil remedies against abusers. First-degree sexual abuse is a felony.
Per Missouri Revised Statute § 566.093, sexual misconduct encompasses a range of non-consensual sexual behaviors, such as indecent exposure, coerced participation, or public sexual acts. In Missouri and Illinois, these offenses may be charged as misdemeanors or felonies depending on the circumstances. While some view misconduct as “less serious” than other sexual crimes, it can still inflict severe trauma and create grounds for a civil lawsuit.
Sodomy in Missouri law refers to non-consensual oral or anal sexual acts. This offense often involves coercion, force, or exploitation of a victim’s vulnerability. Survivors of sodomy can pursue justice through both the criminal system and civil lawsuits against perpetrators and any negligent third parties who enabled the abuse.
Child molestation is defined as sexual contact with a minor under the age of 14. Missouri treats this crime with the highest level of severity due to the vulnerability of children. Molestation may involve physical contact, exploitation, or grooming behaviors by adults in positions of trust. Civil cases can also be filed against schools, daycares, or organizations that failed to prevent the abuse.
This offense covers acts of indecent exposure, solicitation, or inappropriate sexual behavior directed toward a child. Even when physical contact does not occur, the law recognizes the lasting psychological harm to children. Missouri allows survivors to seek compensation well into adulthood, given the difficulty many face in disclosing abuse as minors.
Under Missouri Revised Statute § 566.030, rape is defined as engaging in sexual intercourse with another person without consent. This may involve the use of force, threats, coercion, or taking advantage of someone who is incapacitated or unable to consent. Rape is one of the most serious sexual offenses and often results in both criminal charges and civil claims for damages.
Teachers, administrators, or school employees engaging in sexual conduct with students commit a serious violation of Missouri law, even if the student is of legal age to consent. These cases recognize the power imbalance between authority figures and students. Survivors may bring claims against the individual offender as well as against the school district or institution for negligence.
Survivors of sexual assault have the right to hold their abusers accountable, as well as the organizations and property owners that allowed the abuse to happen. Identifying every responsible party is critical to maximizing recovery and preventing future harm.
The person who committed the abuse is directly liable for the harm caused. Survivors may seek justice through the criminal court system and also pursue a civil lawsuit for damages. Even if a criminal conviction is not secured, the civil process has a lower burden of proof, making it possible to win compensation.
Institutions and businesses that failed to protect survivors can also face civil liability. Examples include:
Missouri law provides additional protections for children and vulnerable adults. For example, the statute of limitations is often extended, recognizing that survivors may need years, or decades, to come forward. When minors or adults under guardianship are harmed, liability may also extend to caregivers, guardians, or institutions that failed to safeguard them.
Sexual abuse can happen anywhere that trust or safety is expected. At Simon Law, we represent survivors in a wide variety of circumstances.
Athletes at all ages and levels are exposed to a large number of individuals acting as volunteer coaches, sports pros, physical therapists, and more, often looking to these individuals as role models. Unfortunately, some coaches exploit this position of authority. Schools and sports organizations may face liability if they fail to screen staff, ignore complaints, or neglect to supervise coaches properly.
Being placed in the care of others also leaves patients vulnerable, especially if they are incapacitated due to medications or physical limitations, and they are often accessible to doctors, nurses, therapists, and even maintenance staff. Patients rely on medical professionals during vulnerable moments. When doctors, nurses, or staff exploit that trust, the impact is devastating. Hospitals and clinics may be held responsible if they overlooked warning signs in hiring, supervision, or prior complaints.
Nursing homes are excellent resources for aging individuals and their families, offering a safe living environment, healthcare, and support. Unfortunately, elderly residents and individuals with disabilities are particularly vulnerable to abuse. Nursing homes that fail to monitor staff, implement proper training, or provide secure facilities can be liable when residents suffer sexual assault or harassment.
Hotels and motels have a duty to maintain safe premises. When inadequate security, poor lighting, or unmonitored entrances contribute to sexual assault, survivors may bring negligent security claims against property owners and management companies. Mistakes and unacceptable behavior of hotel staff can put guests at unnecessary risk, such as the front desk giving a room key to an individual without verifying their identity or checking if the guest is expecting a visitor. Additionally, hotels have a responsibility to protect their employees from sexual assault and abuse by guests.
Religious leaders hold powerful influence in their communities, making survivors of clergy abuse especially vulnerable. When an individual with religious authority uses their role or position of power to intentionally sexually harass, exploit, or engage in activities with a victim, it can be a confusing and traumatic experience. Civil lawsuits can hold the individual clergy member accountable, as well as the church or diocese that enabled, concealed, or ignored abusive behavior.
Our attorneys understand the sensitive nature of these cases. We prioritize confidentiality, respect, and compassion. Survivors control the pace of the process, and we make sure you never feel pressured or retraumatized while pursuing justice.
Compensation in sexual assault cases may cover a wide range of damages, including:
Our goal is to secure the resources survivors need to heal and rebuild their lives.
Abuse often occurs in environments where warning signs are ignored. Simon Law investigates deeply to uncover evidence of negligence, cover-ups, or systemic failures. By exposing these patterns, we secure justice for individual survivors and work to prevent future misconduct.
Many survivors hesitate to take legal action because the process feels overwhelming. At Simon Law, we simplify each step:
We begin with a free, private consultation where survivors can share their story without judgment. We explain legal options and answer any questions before moving forward.
Our legal team collects evidence, including police reports, medical records, surveillance footage, and witness statements. We may also consult with experts in psychology, security, or institutional practices to strengthen the case.
Depending on the circumstances, we file a civil lawsuit against the abuser and/or negligent third parties. Many cases settle outside of court, but our attorneys are always prepared to go to trial if that’s what justice requires.
A jury awarded $535 million to a girl raped at age 13 at a psychiatric treatment center. At the time,...
CHAMPAIGN COUNTY, Ill. – A Champaign County jury awarded a $535 million verdict to a girl who was raped when...
Episode: 802
Sexual Assault Verdict for the Plaintiff Part One
August 7, 2024
Our latest trial win involved a sexual assault case between a woman, her supervisor, and what really happened after he knocked on her hotel room door. We’ll share the facts of the case in part one and take you to trial in part two.
For victims of sexual assault or abuse in the St. Louis area, there are several resources available to help, whether you have emotional concerns, physical concerns, or both.
A negligent security claim arises when a property owner fails to provide adequate safety measures, allowing an assault to occur. Common locations include hotels, bars, and apartment complexes.
Evidence may include medical records, witness testimony, prior complaints against the perpetrator, or documentation of negligent practices by institutions.
No. Many cases resolve through settlements, but our attorneys are always prepared to take cases to court if necessary.
Not always. Many survivors can testify via video or through written depositions. Settlements may also resolve the case without trial.
When you need qualified and reliable guidance, you know where to turn. Simon Law is ready to listen to your story and review the complex aspects of your case.
If you or someone you love has survived sexual assault or abuse, you do not have to face this alone. Simon Law provides compassionate, confidential, and aggressive representation. Contact our St. Louis sexual assault attorneys today for a free consultation.