The statute of limitations for sexual assault in Florida depends on whether the matter involves a criminal prosecution or a civil lawsuit, as well as factors such as the victim’s age at the time of the offense and when the offense was reported. In most civil cases involving adults, the statute of limitations is four years from the date of the assault.
At GOLDLAW, we empathize with the survivors of sexual assault and their families. Our legal team has more than 200 years of combined legal experience. If you are a sexual assault survivor interested in pursuing justice and compensatory damages from anyone who harmed you, we are here to help you with your legal matters in any way possible.
Our compassionate and caring sexual assault lawyers in West Palm Beach can evaluate your case and explain your legal options. We can provide information about the steps to take to report a perpetrator to the authorities. If you want to file a civil lawsuit, we can help you do so in accordance with the statute of limitations for sexual assault in Florida.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Sexual Assault Criminal Charge in Florida?
For certain first- or second-degree sexual battery offenses involving a victim who was 16 or older, Florida law allows prosecution at any time if the offense was reported to law enforcement within 72 hours. If the offense was not reported within 72 hours, an eight-year limitations period generally applies, subject to statutory exceptions and other provisions.
In a case involving a sexual battery offense committed on or after July 1, 2020, when the victim was younger than 18 at the time of the offense, Florida law allows prosecution at any time, subject to limitations concerning offenses that were already time-barred under prior law. Different rules may apply to offenses committed before July 1, 2020.
The sexual assault attorneys at GOLDLAW can teach you about Florida Statute § 775.15, which sets the statute of limitations for criminal offenses in Florida. We can also detail the statute of limitations for a civil sexual assault lawsuit in Florida and the steps to take to file one.
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What Is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Sexual Assault Civil Lawsuit in Florida?
How much time someone has to file a sexual assault civil lawsuit in Florida can be based on the victim’s age at the time of the abuse and the facts of the case. The West Palm Beach personal injury lawyers from GOLDLAW can discuss Florida’s statute of limitations for sexual assault civil lawsuits as it applies to the specifics of your case.
For some civil claims arising from sexual assault involving an adult survivor, the statute of limitations is generally four years from the date of the incident, although exceptions can apply.
In Florida, special statute of limitations rules can apply to civil claims arising from childhood sexual abuse. Depending on the circumstances, the deadline can be based on the victim’s age, when they left the abuser’s control, or when they discovered both an injury and its connection to the abuse.
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How to Sue Someone for Sexual Assault in Florida
Consult with the attorneys at GOLDLAW if you want to sue someone for sexual assault in Florida. We know how emotionally taxing it can be to take legal action against anyone responsible for sexual assault. Our lawyers can describe sexual assault civil lawsuits in Florida and what they entail.
We provide eBooks and other resources to sexual assault survivors who are debating whether to move forward with civil lawsuits. Our attorneys are available to address your legal concerns and questions. If you want to file a sexual assault lawsuit, we will guide you through the legal process and make sure you feel supported every step of the way.
In your sexual assault lawsuit, we want you to focus on self-care while we seek justice and compensatory damages on your behalf. Our attorneys can identify any parties liable for your sexual assault and the losses you’ve incurred. From here, we will work diligently to get you the optimal case results.
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Learn More About the Statute of Limitations for Sexual Assault in Florida
In some cases, you have a limited window to file a sexual assault civil lawsuit in Florida. As you think about whether to file a sexual assault lawsuit and the statute of limitations to do so, remember, you have access to legal guidance and support from the lawyers at GOLDLAW.
Our attorneys are on a mission to hold those accountable who have harmed others. As part of our efforts to help sexual assault survivors and their families, we offer free case consultations. By meeting with us, we can describe how filing a lawsuit can sometimes benefit sexual assault survivors and their families.
Get GOLDLAW and get the help you need and the compensation you deserve. We are available to new and existing clients 24/7. Plus, our attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means there are no fees or costs unless we win your case. Reach out to us today for more information.
