According to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), sexual misconduct is a broad, non-legal term that describes a range of inappropriate sexual behaviors, including sexual assault.
The difference between sexual assault and misconduct is that while sexual assault almost always refers to actual or attempted physical contact, misconduct can include non-physical actions, like stalking, harassing, or verbally threatening someone. Misconduct can even refer to non-criminal offenses.
If you or a loved one has experienced sexual misconduct, or assault, you are not alone. An attorney with our firm can explain your rights and how to seek financial compensation for your related losses.
What Is Sexual Misconduct?
Sexual misconduct encompasses verbal and non-verbal behaviors, including sexual assault. According to the University of Rochester, sexual misconduct includes:
- Dating violence and domestic violence
- Unwanted sexual touching (such as fondling or groping)
- Coercion
- Verbal, written, or electronic harassment
- Threats, abuse, or intimidation (including verbal abuse directed at a person’s gender, gender identity, or sexual orientation)
- Rape (including “date” rape and “acquaintance” rape)
All of the above are examples of sexual misconduct, but not all are sexual assault. Remember: the difference between sexual assault and misconduct is physical contact.
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What Should You Do if You Are the Survivor of Sexual Misconduct?
If you or a loved one has experienced sexual misconduct, you can get help. First and foremost, if the misconduct involved sexual assault, seek medical treatment immediately and file a report with law enforcement. You can also seek help from the police if you are the victim of stalking, threats, or intimidation.
You may also consider these resources:
- For 24/7 support, contact RAINN’s National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-4673 or chat online at online.rainn.org.
You may also consider reaching out to our team. Our legal team advocates for survivors of sexual misconduct, assault, and abuse. We can pursue the recovery you need to get your life back on track.
What Is the Punishment for Sexual Misconduct?
Some forms of sexual misconduct are criminal offenses. However, the punishment for misconduct varies by state and the offense in question.
For example, depending on where you live, a misdemeanor sexual offense may result in fines, jail time, probation, or placement on the sex offender registry. Felony offenses, such as rape, have stricter penalties, but sentencing minimums and maximums are different.
Perpetrators of Sexual Assault Can Face Civil Penalties
In addition to criminal repercussions, perpetrators of sexual misconduct can also face actions in civil court. Plaintiffs can pursue compensation from the party responsible for their physical injuries, emotional pain and suffering, and monetary losses resulting from assault, or abuse.
Liable parties may include the person who committed the misconduct or a third party whose negligent actions allowed the behavior to occur, such as a(n):
- Property owner
- Security company
- Religious organization
- Medical facility
- School’s District
Our firm serves clients from across the county. Our sexual misconduct attorneys can help you navigate the laws in your state and seek damages.
What Compensation Can Victims Pursue for Sexual Misconduct?
You and your loved ones have already been through enough. You should not suffer further because of medical bills, lost wages, and other damages caused by sexual misconduct. You have the legal right to pursue compensation from those liable.
If you experienced misconduct, assault, abuse, or any other harmful or unwanted sexual behavior, you can recover:
- Medical treatment, including doctor and hospital bills, medical procedures, prescription drugs, mental health services, and more
- Pain and suffering, including financial compensation for stress, anxiety, depression, loss of sleep, physical pain, and mental anguish
- Lost wages, including back pay and loss of future earning potential
- Miscellaneous expenses, including personal property damages, medical travel expenses, household services, and more
Your state’s statute of limitations for various forms of sexual misconduct will affect your ability to seek compensation. Our attorneys can tell you more about the laws in your area and pursue your case before the filing deadline expires.
How Can Our Sexual Misconduct Lawyers Help With Your Case?
We understand that experiencing sexual misconduct is difficult and often traumatic. We want to help victims get the justice they deserve without adding stress to an already trying time. Our firm can:
- Investigate your case and collect evidence proving wrongdoing and liability
- File your insurance claims or lawsuits
- Communicate with opposing parties on your behalf
- Identify and seek the damages owed to you
- Fight for the maximum settlement available in your case
- Represent you at trial if necessary
Contact Greenberg Gross Today
For assistance with your sexual misconduct case, reach out to Greenberg Gross. We work on contingency and can get you started with a risk-free, no-cost case evaluation.
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