Supportive & Skilled Child Sexual Abuse Attorney

At Spiros Law, 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. We’re here to 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.

Our legal team is dedicated to seeking justice for survivors and holding perpetrators accountable. We approach every case with sensitivity and compassion, ensuring that your family’s voice is heard. While no legal action can undo the pain, we strive 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. At Spiros Law, we fight tirelessly for justice—because your child’s safety and well-being matter. Reach out today for a confidential consultation.

Contact us at Spiros Law to learn how we can help you.

Our Offices:

Kankakee, IL: Office | Visit Us

Champaign, IL: Office | Visit Us

Danville, IL: Office | Visit Us

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Why Choose Spiros Law to Handle My Case?

Here’s how our compassionate child sexual assault attorneys fight for survivors:

Understanding your story

Your experience is valid. Our team listens without judgment. We want you and your child to feel heard and understood.

Protecting your rights

We’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, we’re on the right track to secure the best possible outcome in your situation.

Fighting for maximum compensation

We 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. Let us handle the legal battle.

Our compassionate child sexual assault attorneys are dedicated to guiding you to the most appropriate path forward for you and your loved ones. We 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, we’re on your side. We’ll work relentlessly to safeguard your well-being throughout the legal process.

Sexual Abuse Cases We Handle

• School and university sexual assault
• Workplace sexual assault
• Hotel/cruise sexual assault
• Military sexual assault
• Sports sexual assault
• Clergy/ church sexual assault
• Public transportation sexual assault (bus, train, etc.)
• Camp sexual assault
• Foster care sexual assault
• Public restroom/ bathroom sexual assault
• Girlfriend/ boyfriend sexual assault
• Relative/ family sexual assault

Sexual assault is classified in many ways. If you or a loved one have experienced unwanted physical touch or verbal advances, allow us to help. 

We are available for a free consultation where we’ll hear your story and determine the avenues we can take under Illinois law. 

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 Spiros Law for a confidential, no-cost consultation. Our understanding attorneys 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, Spiros Law is here to advocate for you. You have the right to file a lawsuit against abusive foster parents or 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 Spiros Law 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. Spiros Law is firmly dedicated to safeguarding your child’s rights and ensuring accountability. Please contact us for a confidential consultation. We 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. Contact us if you have experienced or suspect abuse in a sports setting. 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, Spiros Law is here to help. 

You Are Not Alone—Help Is Available

We recognize that it takes immense courage to come forward about childhood sexual abuse. At Spiros Law, we are dedicated to providing the support and legal guidance you need to pursue justice and healing. Contact us today for a free, confidential case evaluation. Our compassionate legal team is here to listen, support, and guide you through this process.

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.

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.

How Spiros Law Can Help

Our legal team will work to uncover and gather evidence that an organization failed to act when it should have. This may involve reviewing:

• Hiring and screening policies
• Supervision protocols
• Past complaints

If an institution neglects its duty to protect children, we will fight to hold them accountable.

At Spiros Law, we believe that survivors deserve justice. If you suspect an organization failed to protect you or a loved one, we are here to listen and help you take action. Contact us for your free, confidential consultation. Your safety and well-being come first, and we are committed to helping you through this process.

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 Sexual Abuse Lawyer – Reach out to a qualified child sexual abuse lawyer, like Spiros Law 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

Why Choose Spiros?

We are proud to have secured significant compensation for individuals who have suffered due to the negligence of others, including sexual abuse and assault cases.

 Here are some of our prominent examples:

• $9,842,900 —the second-largest verdict in the history of Vermilion County, for an innocent baby who suffered immense harm and required an emergency craniotomy.
• $1,450,000 — the largest verdict in Ford County for a driver who was injured when another car ran a stop sign.
• $1,400,000 — the largest settlement for Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD) in Champaign County, Illinois, after a 42-year-old woman was given the wrong medication at a hospital, leading to vein necrosis, chronic pain, and nerve damage.

These are just a few examples of the successful cases we have argued. We have experience dealing with a wide range of personal injury cases, including:

• Catastrophic Injuries
• Traumatic Brain Injuries
• Auto Wrecks
• Burn Injuries
• Paralysis Injuries
• Worker’s Comp Claims
• Wrongful Death Lawsuit
• Sexual Assault
• Mass Tort
• Federal Tort Claims
• View All Practice Areas

At Spiros Law, we take pride in providing clear, honest communication with our clients, as you’ll see reflected in our reviews. From your first consultation with us, we are upfront about potential outcomes—both positive and negative. We understand that when you’re seeking a child sexual abuse attorney, you and your loved one have already endured significant pain. That’s why we approach every conversation with compassion, transparency, and a genuine commitment to helping those who come to us for guidance.

Contact Us 24/7

If you or someone you love has been affected by child sexual assault, you don’t have to face this alone. Contact the attorneys at Spiros Law today.

Located in Central Illinois, our supportive legal team in Kankakee, Champaign and Danville are here to listen and protect you in your truest time of need.

We are here to support you at any stage of your case with the strength and advocacy you deserve. While someone else failed to protect your safety, the committed attorneys at Spiros Law are ready to fight for justice.

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. This includes family members, teachers, religious leaders, coaches, and caregivers. In addition, institutions like schools, churches, and youth organizations that employ or associate with known offenders may also 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, the Spiros Law team 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

At Spiros Law, we are committed to advocating for survivors. Our supportive legal team is available with strong legal representation throughout Illinois with offices in Kankakee, Danville, and Champaign. If you need legal support, we offer free, confidential consultations to discuss your options and help you seek justice.

Need Legal Advice?

Schedule a free, confidential consultation at Spiros Law today. You deserve to be heard.

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