Sexual Misconduct Often Happens In Places People Go To Heal And At The Hands Of Someone Entrusted With Our Care:

Medical Facilities, Treatment Providers, and Staff

• Hospitals
• Clinics
• Outpatient Treatment Centers
• Medical Groups
• Behavioral Health / Mental Health / Psychiatric
• Dental Offices
• Doctors / Nurses / Nurses Assistants
• Dentists
• Chiropractors
• Physical Therapists
• Psychotherapist
• Security Staff
• Ambulance Companies

Other Licensed Facilities

• Elder Care / Nursing Homes / Hospice Care
• Residential Care Facilities / Assisted Living
• Home Health Agency – Home Care Aide
• Continuing Care Retirement Communities
• Developmentally Disabled Adult Care Facilities

Rehabilitation Treatment Providers

• Residential Treatment Facilities
• Sober Living Facilities / Rehab Facilities
• Inpatient / Outpatient 

What Can I Do If I Was Sexually Assaulted By My Doctor?

When you seek treatment from a doctor, dentist, chiropractor, or any other treatment provider, you expect to be helped and not harmed. Unfortunately, predators look for positions of trust that give them unquestioned access to people they can prey upon. It is important to report the offender to the authorities. You can file a police report and you can report to the licensing board. There is a short window to file a civil lawsuit, so it is imperative that you seek advice from an attorney that has experience in helping survivors of sexual assault and harassment even if you do not plan to file a lawsuit, so you can understand your options and know when they expire. 

My Doctor Made Me Feel Uncomfortable But I Don’t Know If What He Did Is Illegal

When something happens that makes you feel uncomfortable, it is normal to minimize what you are feeling and give the benefit of the doubt to the person you have trusted to provide treatment or care. Medical treatment providers are in a position of trust and authority. Unfortunately, predators know this is a prime position to take advantage of unsuspecting people. Fondling, groping, rubbing their genitals against you, exposing themselves, and providing unnecessary vaginal, breast, or anal exams can all be considered sexual misconduct. Trust your gut and do not be afraid to speak up. If it happened to you, statistically it has probably happened to many others.  

What If I Was Under Anesthesia And Do Not Remember Everything?

We understand that it may be difficult if you were sedated or on anesthesia. We will listen as you tell us what you do remember and contact those who may have witnessed what happened to you or others. Offenders often have multiple victims and a pattern of behavior. 

Would You Believe Me If I Was Admitted To A Behavioral Health Facility And Assaulted There? 

We will believe you. We will listen to you without judgment. People who are struggling with mental health issues deserve to have a safe space where they can go for treatment. Whether you were sexually assaulted by staff or another patient in the facility you did not deserve to be preyed upon while you were in a vulnerable situation. When you are admitted to a behavioral health facility, voluntarily or not, you deserve to receive the care you need in a safe environment. 

What If I Was Assaulted In A Rehab Facility?

You are not alone. Unfortunately, rehabilitation facilities are often run by investment companies because they are highly profitable and not regulated. Untrained and unlicensed staff can create an environment that puts people who are trying to manage their sobriety at risk. This is not your fault. When you take steps to heal yourself, you deserve a safe space to do so. 

I Think My Mother Is Being Abused in Her Nursing Home

Do you believe your loved one is being abused in a nursing home or by a home health aide? Sometimes elder abuse can be hard to detect. It is important to know the signs of abuse and trust your gut. If you suspect abuse, document incidents with as many details as possible such as date, location, time, name of the offender, and potential witnesses. Take photos of injuries. It is also important to report the incidents to management in writing. You can file a police report. You never know if other families have also reported abuse of their loved ones. It often takes more than one person to report to make a difference. In the state of California, all nursing homes must be licensed by the California Department of Health (CDPH). You can file a complaint with the CDPH. 

How Long Can I Wait Before Filing A Lawsuit?

The statute of limitations varies greatly depending on the case. Unfortunately, in some instances, you may only have two to three years to file a lawsuit. Determining the statute of limitations for a case is not a simple matter and internet searches are not trustworthy. It is imperative to seek an attorney’s advice to determine your legal options and when the statute of limitations expires. 

What Are The Next Steps?

If you or your loved one has been sexually assaulted, call Haeggquist & Eck, LLP. We are here for you. We believe you. You do not have to go through this alone. We will listen without judgment. We will provide trauma-informed support every step of the way. When you call Haeggquist & Eck, your conversation is free and confidential. You are never under any obligation to pursue a case. There are never any upfront fees. You only pay when we win your case.  Reach out to a sexual assault attorney.