Sexual Abuse & Assault

Sexual Abuse & Assault

As an attorney, I strive to provide a caring and compassionate approach to representing victims of sexual abuse. Understandably, a victim of sexual abuse, struggling to deal with trauma and humiliation, is unlikely to seek legal consultation and demand compensation from a perpetrator right away. Clinical counseling is the first step to help you realize that you are a valuable person and deserve sincere consideration for the devastation you are experiencing. Please call me to confidentially discuss your claim, and learn how a damages settlement can help you put your life back together.

Illinois has a statute of limitations for victims of childhood sexual abuse.

As amended in 2003, Illinois Statutes § 5/13-202.2(b) provides that an action for damages based on childhood sexual abuse must be filed:

  • within 10 years of the date the person reaches the age of 18; or
  • within 10 years of the date that a legal disability is removed; or
  • within 10 years from the date that the victim is no longer is subject to threats, intimidation, manipulation, or fraud perpetrated by the abuser or by any person acting in the interest of the abuser; or
  • within 5 years after the person discovers or through the use of reasonable diligence should discover that the act of childhood sexual abuse occurred and that the injury was caused by the childhood sexual abuse.

Attorney John J. Malm accepts cases for clergy sexual abuse, child molestation, and other forms of abuse. He proudly represents individuals who have had their lives stolen from them by an abuser and helps victims seek compensation for pain and suffering and ongoing treatment and counseling.

For statistics and other information about sexual violence, including prevention, please read the CDC brochure, "Understanding Sexual Violence".

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