How To File A Sex Abuse Lawsuit In Oregon (2025)
Contributor
Reviewed By Adam Ramirez, J.D.
Editor
Summary
- You may file a civil lawsuit if you’ve survived sexual abuse in Oregon
- How long you have to file depends on the circumstances of your abuse
- A sexual abuse attorney can help you navigate the legal process
For those who have survived sexual abuse, the effects can be daunting, ranging from physical injuries to emotional trauma. The decision to pursue justice for sexual abuse can be a difficult one, but for many, holding perpetrators accountable for the devastating actions they’ve taken can bring a sense of healing and closure.
In Oregon, victims of sexual abuse have an option for legal recourse outside of the criminal courts: filing a civil lawsuit. Here’s a glimpse into how the process works, along with how attorneys can provide compassionate, skilled legal support along the way.
Free Case Review
Preparing Case Review Form. ConsumerShield is transforming the way consumers experience law.
The Process for a Sexual Abuse Lawsuit in Oregon
If you choose to file a lawsuit for sexual abuse in Oregon, the process should look something like this:
- You schedule a consultation with a sexual abuse attorney, who will listen to your story and answer questions you may have about the legal process
- If the attorney accepts your case, they begin gathering evidence
- They prepare and file the lawsuit
- They try to negotiate a settlement
- If no settlement is reached, they represent you in court
Once you choose an attorney, they can help you understand what to expect going forward.
Damages Survivors Can Seek in Oregon
Sexual assault settlement amounts can vary significantly. However, survivors can often recover compensation for medical bills, lost income and other financial losses. They can also be compensated for pain and suffering and emotional distress.
Free Case Review
Preparing Case Review Form. ConsumerShield is transforming the way consumers experience law.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim in Oregon?
How long you have to file depends on whether you were an adult, a child or a vulnerable person under Oregon law at the time of the abuse:
If You Were an Adult
If you were abused as an adult, you have two years to file a lawsuit for sexual abuse in Oregon.
If You Were a Child
If you suffered sexual abuse in Oregon when you were a child, you have until your 40th birthday to file a lawsuit. However, the discovery rule also applies in these cases.
This means that you have five years from the time you realized the abuse caused physical or psychological injury to file a lawsuit, even if you are age 40 or older.
If You Were a Vulnerable Person
Under Oregon law, you are classified as a vulnerable person if:
- You are elderly
- You’re financially incapable
- You’re incapacitated
- You’re physically or mentally disabled
If you were a vulnerable person, you have seven years after the abuse to file a lawsuit.
Sex Abuse Lawsuit: Who Can I Sue?
Depending on the circumstances of your abuse, you may be able to sue your individual abusers and any institutions that tried to hide or enable the abuse.
Free Case Review
Preparing Case Review Form. ConsumerShield is transforming the way consumers experience law.
Choosing a Civil Sexual Abuse Lawyer in Oregon
Sexual abuse cases come with unique challenges and complexities, so it’s critically important to choose a personal injury lawyer in Oregon with a strong track record involving sexual abuse and assault cases. ConsumerShield can help you find one. Fill out our contact form to start with a free case review!
Frequently Asked Questions
-
The burden of proof in a civil case is much lower than in a criminal case. That means it’s often easier to win a civil case.
-
That depends. Straightforward cases may settle in months, but those that go to trial can take years.
