What Is Sexual Abuse?

Sexual abuse is one of the most serious and devastating forms of harm a person can experience. It often involves a violation of trust, power, or authority—and its effects can last a lifetime. Survivors may face emotional, physical, and psychological trauma, along with complex legal questions about accountability and justice.

Understanding what qualifies as sexual abuse—and what legal options may be available—is an important first step toward protecting your rights.

What Is Sexual Abuse?

Sexual abuse refers to any non-consensual sexual act or behavior. It can involve force, coercion, manipulation, or exploitation, and it often occurs in situations where one person holds power over another.

Sexual abuse can include:

• Unwanted sexual touching or contact

• Sexual assault or rape

• Sexual exploitation or trafficking

• Abuse of a minor by an adult

• Abuse by authority figures such as teachers, coaches, clergy, or caregivers

• Online exploitation or coercion

Consent is a critical factor. Individuals who are minors, incapacitated, or under the influence of authority or control may not be legally able to give consent.

Sexual abuse is not limited to physical violence—it can also involve psychological manipulation, grooming, or threats. In many cases, survivors may not immediately recognize what happened to them as abuse, especially when it involves someone they trusted.

Our Sexual Abuse Practice Areas

At Hurley McKenna & Mertz, P.C., we represent survivors in a wide range of sexual abuse cases, including:

• Childhood sexual abuse

• Clergy and institutional abuse

• School and university abuse

• Workplace sexual assault and harassment

• Abuse in foster care or residential facilities

• Human trafficking and exploitation

• Abuse by medical professionals or caregivers

We understand that every case is deeply personal. Our approach is centered on compassion, discretion, and a commitment to holding responsible parties accountable.

Do I Have a Sexual Abuse Case?

If you have experienced sexual abuse, you may have the right to pursue a civil claim—regardless of whether criminal charges were filed.

You may have a case if:

• You were subjected to unwanted sexual conduct

• The abuse occurred in a setting where someone had a duty to protect you

• An institution failed to prevent or respond to known risks

• You suffered emotional, physical, or financial harm as a result

Importantly, liability is not limited to the individual who committed the abuse. 

Organizations—such as schools, churches, employers, or care facilities—may also be held responsible if they:

• Failed to properly screen employees or volunteers

• Ignored complaints or warning signs

• Created an environment where abuse could occur

• Attempted to conceal or minimize misconduct

Even if the abuse occurred years ago, you may still have legal options. Many survivors come forward later in life, and the law recognizes the unique challenges involved in reporting abuse.

Illinois Statute of Limitations for Sexual Abuse

Illinois law provides extended timeframes for survivors of sexual abuse to pursue civil claims.

In many cases:

• Survivors of childhood sexual abuse may file a claim years after the abuse occurred

• The statute of limitations may be extended based on when the survivor discovered the harm

• Certain legal reforms have expanded opportunities for survivors to seek justice

These timelines can be complex and depend on the specific facts of each case, including the survivor’s age at the time of abuse and when the connection between the abuse and resulting harm was recognized.

Because these rules are highly case-specific, it is important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to understand your rights.

Why Choose Hurley McKenna & Mertz, P.C.?

Hurley McKenna & Mertz, P.C. has decades of experience representing survivors of abuse in complex, high-stakes litigation.

We are known for:

• Leading national litigation involving institutional abuse

• Advocating for survivors in large-scale cases, including the Boy Scouts of America bankruptcy

• Taking on powerful organizations and holding them accountable — such as the Roman Catholic Church and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

• Providing compassionate, client-centered representation

• Pursuing maximum compensation for the harm our clients have suffered

We understand the courage it takes to come forward. Our team is committed to creating a supportive environment where your story is heard—and your case is taken seriously.

Speak With a Chicago Sexual Abuse Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse, you do not have to navigate this process alone.

At Hurley McKenna & Mertz, P.C., we are here to listen, answer your questions, and help you understand your legal options. Consultations are confidential, and there is no obligation to move forward unless you choose to.

Contact our Chicago sexual abuse lawyers today to take the first step toward accountability and justice.