Our Children Deserve to Be Heard & Protected

We understand the pain and trauma that come with child sexual assault. If your child has been a victim, know that you’re not alone. Please seek qualified legal help.

Sexual assault perpetrators may face criminal prosecution, possibly leading to fines and imprisonment. Additionally, survivors have the right to pursue civil lawsuits against their offenders, which operate separately from criminal proceedings.

While no legal action can undo the pain, it’s beneficial for families as they strives to provide a path toward healing, closure, and financial support to help secure your child’s future.

You deserve an advocate who will stand by your side every step of the way.

Spiros Law stands with the community in raising awareness against child assault. While our firm does not specialize in family assault cases, we are committed to educating and advocating for the protection of children.

Listen to children, trust their voices, and if you see something, say something. Together, we can work toward ending this type of abuse and keeping our children safe.

If you’ve experienced harassment or abuse in the workplace, academic environment, or business setting, we are here to protect your rights and help you seek justice.

Unfortunately, we do not handle family sexual assault cases. The best person for you to reach out to regarding cases involving family would be your local States Attorney.  In Illinois, the Illinois State Bar Association can be reached at 217-525-5297 Monday through Friday between 9:00am and 3:00pm. After collecting some basic information, they will be able to refer you to a lawyer in your area.

How an Attorney Can Help

Here’s is how a child sexual assault attorney fights for survivors:

Understanding your story

Your experience is valid. An attorney is here to listen without judgment, so you and your child feel heard and understood.

Protecting your rights

They’ll present your legal options, including criminal charges, civil lawsuits, and protective orders if needed.

Building a strong case

By gathering evidence, consulting experts, and preparing a compelling case, they’ll get you on the right track to secure the best possible outcome in your situation.

Fighting for maximum compensation

A trusted attorney will pursue every possible avenue of compensation, including coverage for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and ongoing therapy.

Advocating with compassion

You deserve to focus on healing. Partner with a trusted lawyer.

A compassionate child sexual assault attorney will be dedicated to guiding you to the most appropriate path forward for you and your loved ones. They will advocate for you, ensuring your voice is heard, and work to prevent the perpetrator from affecting others the same way. If you’re ready to reclaim your life following an assault and pursue justice, choose an lawyer that’s on your side. They will work relentlessly to safeguard your well-being throughout the legal process.

What are the Signs for Teen & Child Sexual Abuse?

Oftentimes, children who experience sexual abuse do not tell anyone and may show no physical signs. However, there are certain physical, emotional, and behavioral changes that can be indicators of abuse.

Physical Signs

• Trouble walking or sitting
• Redness, swelling, rashes, bleeding, or pain in the private areas
• Frequent bladder infections or urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Painful bowel movements
• Constant headaches or stomach aches
• Unexplained sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• Pregnancy

Emotional & Behavioral Signs

• Sudden changes in behavior or personality, such as becoming withdrawn, sad, or fearful
• Increased anxiety or depression, including mood swings.
• Avoidance toward certain people, places, or activities, especially if they previously did not exhibit these behaviors toward a person or place.
• Aggressive behavior, including sudden anger, outbursts, or defiance.
• Declining school performance or losing interest in learning.
• Reverting to younger behaviors like thumb-sucking, bed-wetting, or clinging to caregivers.
• Trouble sleeping, including nightmares, difficulty falling asleep, or frequent bad dreams.
• Inappropriate sexual behavior, including knowing too much about sex for their age and sexualized play with toys or others.
• Self-harm or risky behaviors, typically in older children or teens. These behaviors include cutting, drug or alcohol use, or developing an eating disorder.

What to Do if You Suspect Abuse

If you notice these signs in a child, trust your instincts. Here are the recommended next steps:

• Talk to the child in a safe and supportive way. Let them know they are not in trouble, and they are not alone.
• Report concerns to the proper authorities, such as child protective services, school officials, or law enforcement.
• Seek professional support. Therapists, school guidance counselors, and legal professionals can guide you.

What Are Common Types of Teen & Child Sexual Assault?

Clergy Abuse / Church Abuse

For decades, certain religious leaders have violated their communities’ trust through acts of abuse. Tragically, these violations were frequently hidden, enabling the abuse to go on. Today, legal frameworks now allow victims to hold wrongdoers accountable, even for incidents from the distant past. If you’ve experienced harm at the hands of clergy, you deserve justice. Reach out to your local state attorney. They will listen and provide guidance and support throughout your journey toward healing and justice.

Foster Care Abuse

Children in the foster system deserve safe and nurturing care. Unfortunately, some children have experienced abuse at the hands of those meant to protect them. If you or someone you know has been mistreated while in foster care, a trusted attorney can advocate for you. You have the right to file a lawsuit against negligent agencies to seek justice. 

Medical Professional Abuse

Patients place immense trust in medical professionals. When abuse occurs, this trust is violated, leaving a profound impact. Survivors have the right to seek justice and compensation from medical professionals who have harmed them. Reach out to your local state attorney for a confidential consultation today. You deserve support and justice.

School and Teacher Abuse

Educators and school staff are trusted with their students’ well-being and growth. Unfortunately, this trust can be broken, leaving a mark on survivors and their families. If your child has suffered harm in a school environment, whether public or private, you have every right to pursue justice. A compassionate attorney will safeguard your child’s rights and ensure accountability. Please contact your local state attorney for a confidential consultation. They will thoroughly investigate your case and advocate tirelessly for the justice your family deserves.

Sexual Abuse in Youth Sports

Sports should provide a positive and safe environment for young athletes, but some coaches and trainers exploit their positions, leading to instances of abuse. If you or your child has been harmed in a youth sports program, know that you are not alone. Legal action can help protect others from harm and provide the justice you deserve.

Youth Organization Abuse

Organizations like the Boy Scouts of America have long been trusted to provide safe environments for youth. However, it has come to light that some leaders have abused this trust, harming the children in their care. Survivors are now speaking out and pursuing legal action against these organizations. If you or a loved one suffered abuse in a youth organization setting, reaching an attorney is a great step towards a better path. 

You Are Not Alone—Help Is Available

We recognize that it takes immense courage to come forward about childhood sexual abuse. Partner with a devoted attorney which will provide the support and legal guidance you need to pursue justice and healing. You can reach out to your local States Attorney. In Illinois, the Illinois State Bar Association can be reached at 217-525-5297 Monday through Friday between 9:00am and 3:00pm. After collecting some basic information, they will be able to refer you to a lawyer in your area.

Common Types of Sexual Violence According to the Law

Sexual Harassment​

Sexual harassment typically comes in the form of sexually inappropriate comments or gestures. While it may escalate to pressured sexual activities, these instances generally fall under the classification of sexual assault.

Sexual Misconduct

Sexual misconduct occurs when consent is not given before engaging in sexual intercourse, oral sex, or anal sex.

Rape

Rape occurs when someone engages in sexual intercourse without the other person’s consent, including with a person younger than 17 years old (unless there is no more than a 4-year age gap) or with a person who cannot consent due to mental incapacity or mental disability.

It’s crucial to remember that there are various exceptions under Illinois sexual abuse laws. To ensure you understand the full legal implications of your situation, you should contact an Illinois child sexual abuse lawyer immediately.

Why Should I Sue?

You have every right to seek compensation for the harm you’ve endured. Unfortunately, some survivors face a stigma when pursuing justice, but this is rooted in harmful misconceptions. If you have suffered physical, emotional, or financial harm due to someone else’s wrongdoing, the law is on your side. Sexual assault is no exception. Survivors deserve the opportunity to hold perpetrators accountable and seek the restitution they are entitled to.

When it comes to child sexual assault, you have the right to bring both a criminal and civil case against your abuser. Here are a few reasons victims choose to present a civil suit, even after a criminal case:

• Financial compensation – You may be entitled to compensation to cover medical costs, therapy, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.
• Holding parties accountable – Lawsuits can punish individuals, but they can also hold institutions like schools and churches accountable.
• Seeking closure – Some survivors find a civil case to be an empowering tool to reclaim control of their lives.

A reputable child sexual abuse attorney can help you pursue these goals and achieve justice in your case.

If you’re in Illinois and need help with a family-related legal matter, the best person to contact is your local State’s Attorney. You can also reach out to the Illinois State Bar Association at 217-525-5297, Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. They’ll ask you for some basic information and can then connect you with a lawyer near you.

Who Can Be Held Liable?

You have the right to seek justice from the perpetrator as well as those who failed to protect you or your child. This includes:

• The assailant
• Employers
• Institutions or organizations
• Property owners or landlords

It Is Your Legal Right to Seek Compensation

No amount of money can undo the trauma of the sexual assault of a teen or child. However, a civil lawsuit can help you reclaim financial compensation to aid in the costs of healing and rebuilding your life.

Types of Compensation for a Sexual Abuse & Assault Survivors:

Economic Damages (Financial Losses)

These damages cover the actual costs of their injuries, including:

• Medical expenses like hospital bills, doctor visits, therapy, and mental health treatment.
• Future medical costs such as ongoing treatments, medications, or long-term care.

Non-Economic Damages (Life Impact)

Sexual assault or abuse affects more than just finances. Non-economic damages provide compensation for:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress 
• Loss of enjoyment of life or struggling to participate in activities they once loved.
• Disfigurement or physical impairment 

Statue of Limitations for Sexual Assault in Illinois

In the state of Illinois, there is no statute of limitations on criminal sexual abuse cases. 

Childhood sexual abuse survivors can file a lawsuit at any time, regardless of the number of years that have passed since the abuse occurred. 

How to Help Prove Your Case

If you or a loved one has endured childhood sexual abuse, seeking justice can feel overwhelming. In these cases, one of the biggest challenges is proving that an organization, such as a school, church, youth group, or sports program knew or should have known that the perpetrator was a danger to children.

Since abuse often happens in private, organizations often try to deny responsibility, claiming they were unaware of the perpetrator’s actions. However, they can still be held accountable if they fail to properly supervise the abuser, ignore warning signs, or allow them to continue working around children despite concerning behavior.

Warning Signs That Organizations May Have Ignored

• The perpetrator violated workplace policies meant to keep children safe.
• They engaged with children in secluded areas, such as behind closed doors.
• They provided inappropriate gifts or showed favoritism toward a child.
• Reports or concerns about their behavior were raised but not investigated or addressed.
• The organization chose to protect its reputation rather than ensure children’s safety.

9 Ways to Support Teens & Children After Sexual Abuse

1. Ensure Safety – The safety and well-being of the victim should be the top priority. If they are in immediate danger, contact law enforcement or emergency services.
2. Seek Medical Attention – Encourage your loved one to seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if there are no visible injuries. Medical professionals can document any evidence of abuse and address potential health concerns.
3. Document the Incident – Encourage your loved one to document the details of the incident as accurately as possible. This may include writing down what happened, preserving any evidence, and keeping a record of any communication with the perpetrator.
4. Report to Law Enforcement – Report the sexual abuse to the police. Provide as much information as possible about the incident and any details regarding the perpetrator. Cooperation with law enforcement is crucial for a thorough investigation.
5. Connect with Supportive Services – Encourage your loved one to seek support from organizations and agencies that have experience in assisting sexual abuse survivors. This may include local rape crisis centers, counseling services, or victim advocacy groups.
6. Consult with a Lawyer – Reach out to a qualified child sexual abuse lawyer or your local state attorney to explore legal options. 
7. Support Emotional Well-being – Emotional support is crucial during this time. Encourage your loved one to seek counseling or therapy to address the emotional and psychological impact of the abuse. Let them know that you are available to provide a supportive and non-judgmental presence.
8. Follow Legal Proceedings – If you decide to pursue legal action on behalf of your loved one, support them throughout the legal process. This may involve providing information, attending court hearings, and cooperating with law enforcement and legal professionals.
9. Stay Informed about Rights and Resources – Stay informed about your loved one’s rights as a survivor and the available resources for support. Knowledge about available services and legal avenues can empower survivors and their families.

Sexual Assault & Abuse Statistics

• A child in the U.S. becomes a victim of sexual abuse every 9 minutes.
• 1 in 9 girls and 1 in 20 boys under the age of 18 experience sexual abuse or assault.
• 82% of child sexual abuse victims are girls.
• Teen girls aged 16-19 are 4 times more likely than the general population to be victims of rape, attempted rape, or sexual assault.
• Survivors of childhood sexual abuse are:
  • 4 times more likely to develop drug addiction.
  • 4 times more likely to experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as adults.
  • 3 times more likely to suffer from major depression as adults.
• In 2013, reports to Child Protective Services (CPS) identified:
  • 47,000 men and 5,000 women as alleged perpetrators/ child predators.
• In 88% of confirmed cases, the abuser was male.
• In 9% of cases, the perpetrator was female.
• In 3% of cases, the abuser’s gender was unknown.
• The FBI reports that 9 out of 10 rape accusations reported are proven true.

Statistics Above Sourced by Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) & FBI Crime Index

FAQS

How Does Illinois Law Define Child Sexual Abuse?

Under Illinois law, child sexual abuse is any sexual offense committed against a child under 18 years of age by a parent, guardian, caregiver, household member, or any person in a position of trust. Inappropriate touching, sexual exploitation, and sexual coercion all fall under this umbrella.

Who Can Be Held Responsible for Child Sexual Abuse?

Anyone who commits abuse or enables it to occur can be held accountable. Institutions like schools, churches, and youth organizations that employ or associate with known offenders may be held legally responsible.

What Are Some Common Forms of Sexual Abuse?

There are many types of sexual abuse. Some of the most common include: 

• Unwanted touching or inappropriate physical contact
• Forced or coerced sexual acts
• Sexual exploitation, including trafficking or child pornography
• Manipulation into engaging in sexual activity
• Sexual harassment, such as verbal abuse or inappropriate gestures

How Does Sexual Abuse Impact Survivors?

Sexual abuse survivors can experience some or all of the following:

• Emotional distress, including shame, guilt, anxiety, depression, and PTSD
• Physical health issues
• Relationship difficulties and trust issues
• Difficulty at school
• Long-term psychological challenges 

Should I Report a Sexual Assault?

Yes, reporting assault or abuse to law enforcement or a trusted professional plays an important role in holding abusers accountable and preventing further harm. If you’re uncertain about taking this step, we recommend speaking with a counselor or advocate who can provide guidance in a safe and supportive environment. 

What Is Considered Sexual Assault Under Illinois Law?

Sexual assault in Illinois includes any non-consensual sexual activity, especially when the perpetrator uses force or threats.

How Can I Find Help?

There are several ways to get help following sexual assault or abuse:

• RAINN (National Sexual Assault Hotline): 
  • Call: 1-800-656-4673
  • Chat: RAINN 24/7 Online Chat
• Local Resources: Call 911 for immediate help or visit a local medical center.
• Local Support Services: Therapists, crisis centers, and legal advocates are available to help survivors heal and seek justice.
• Steps to Reporting Abuse: How to Report Sexual Assault to Law Enforcement

Is There a Time Limit for Reporting Sexual Assault?

There is no time limit—or statute of limitations—for reporting sexual assault to the police in the state of Illinois.

What Are the Time Limits for Legal Action in Illinois?

• Criminal Charges for Adult & Child Sexual Abuse – There is no statute of limitations. Offenders can be charged and prosecuted at any time.
• Civil Lawsuits for Childhood Sexual Abuse – Survivors can file a lawsuit at any time, regardless of how many years ago the abuse happened.
• Civil Lawsuits for Adult Survivors – The deadline to press charges is generally two years from the date of the assault. 

Will Waiting to File a Claim Hurt My Case?

Waiting to take legal action can make cases more challenging to prove since evidence may be lost and memories can fade. However, support is available at any stage. If you’re ready to explore your options, a supportive attorney can help guide you through the process with care and compassion.

How Long Does a Sexual Abuse Case Take?

This varies based on available evidence, legal complexity, and cooperation from authorities. Some cases take weeks, while others may take years. Patience and strong legal representation can help ensure the best outcome.

How Can a Lawyer Help?

In cases of child sexual abuse or assault, a lawyer can:

• Investigate the abuse and gather evidence
• Identify responsible parties
• Calculate financial damages (medical costs, emotional suffering, therapy, etc.)
• Represent survivors in legal proceedings
• Fight for justice and fair compensation

For matters involving family-related cases, your local State’s Attorney may be an appropriate point of contact. In Illinois, you may also contact the Illinois State Bar Association at 217-525-5297, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. After gathering some basic information, they can refer you to an attorney in your area.