Civil Justice for Adult Survivors of Sexual Abuse

Holding Abusers and Negligent Institutions Accountable

Survivors of adult sexual abuse have the right to seek civil damages in Minnesota. This includes any non-consensual sexual act by another person, whether a stranger, acquaintance, coworker, boss, medical professional, or any individual. Civil claims are separate from criminal cases; even if the police prosecute an abuser, you may also sue for the harm suffered.

Who can sue: The person who was abused can file a lawsuit against the perpetrator, and in some cases against institutions or employers that were negligent. Under Minnesota law, any action for damages due to sexual abuse of an adult (18+) must be filed within six years of the abuser. Notably, the law allows you to sue not only the abuser but also “a person who was a cause of the plaintiff’s damages…by negligence,” meaning organizations can be held liable if they failed to protect you.
Common scenarios: Claims often involve abuse by someone in a position of authority—such as a therapist who molested a patient, a boss who coerced an employee, or a medical provider who sexually assaulted a patient. They can also involve dates or acquaintances, if there was abuse. If you were forced, coerced, or raped by an employer, coworker, landlord, or anyone else as an adult, you may have a civil claim.
Compensation: Damages can include medical costs, counseling or therapy fees, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Minnesota law allows juries to award “the amount…the jury deems fair and just” for the abuse suffered (though some limits apply, as noted below). Even though most civil lawsuits cap punitive damages, in rare cases of gross negligence or intentional harm, punitive damages may be available.

Because Minnesota’s statute of limitations for adult sexual abuse is six years, it’s important not to wait. Zack Johnson Law, LLC has experience helping adult survivors bring claims. We will listen sensitively to your story, explain the legal process, and help assemble evidence. Contact Minnesota sexual abuse attorney Zack Johnson for a confidential consultation. We will ensure your case is filed before the deadline and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

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