Chattanooga Sexual Abuse Lawyer

Experiencing sexual abuse is deeply traumatic. Finding the strength to reach out for help can feel overwhelming and frightening. Our compassionate attorneys specialize in helping sexual abuse survivors, and we know that it takes a lot of courage to share their stories. That’s why we meet confidentially with clients who have endured sexual abuse, to hear their stories, and then support them every step of their journey.

Any person can be the victim of sexual abuse, and all too often, the most vulnerable members of our community, such as children and the elderly, are the victims of these devastating events. When you place your trust in a person, and your trust is violated, you may be left to struggle with physical and emotional injuries. When this happens, the survivors of these abuses and assaults deserve to be heard.

If you or a loved one has been the victim of sexual abuse, we want to offer you a free and confidential consultation. You or your loved one deserves to share your story in a safe space. Our team of Chattanooga sexual abuse lawyers can help you begin the healing process and help hold sexual abusers accountable for their actions through a personal injury claim.

Sexual Abuse Lawsuits and Their Purpose

Sexual abuse is often referred to as sexual assault and is generally defined as unwanted sexual contact without a person’s consent. Unfortunately, many of the victims of sexual abuse in Tennessee are vulnerable and include children and the elderly.

The Tennessee legislature has made it clear that because of the tremendous impact on children, siblings, and families, prosecuting child sexual abuse is a priority in the state under T.C.A. § 37-1-601.

However, even though children and the elderly in nursing homes are often the victims of these traumatic events, anyone can be the victim of sexual abuse. A Chattanooga sexual abuse lawyer can help victims who have faced abuse in:

• Working environments
• School functions
• Religious events
• Sports teams
• Youth programs
• Scouting programs
• Summer camps
• After-school programs

While a sexual abuse lawsuit cannot undo the traumatic events, many sexual abuse victims report a feeling of relief and satisfaction through filing a lawsuit.

Compensation for Sexual Abuse

People who have been victims of sexual abuse or any sexually related crime often feel a sense of vindication knowing their attacker has gone through the criminal justice process.

However, many victims suffer deep emotional and physical injuries that the criminal justice system cannot compensate for.

A victim of sexual abuse in Chattanooga may file a civil lawsuit against their attacker and may be able to recover compensation for:

• Medical bills
• Therapy and rehabilitation costs
• Lost earnings
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress

In addition, a victim’s spouse or child may be entitled to compensation for loss of companionship. While money cannot heal the trauma of sexual abuse, a civil lawsuit can help ensure individuals and families are financially supported during recovery.

Local Support & Community Resources in Chattanooga

If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse in Chattanooga, there are people right here in our community who want to help. Here are trusted, local, and statewide organizations that offer free, confidential support. This includes crisis intervention, counseling, advocacy, and assistance with medical care or legal needs.

Local Chattanooga & Hamilton County Resources

• Partnership for Families, Children, and Adults: The main Rape Crisis Center and sexual-assault support organization in Chattanooga. Their 24/7 crisis hotline (423-755-2700) connects survivors with trained advocates, crisis counseling, forensic-exam coordination (SANE/rape kits), safety planning, and long-term services.
• Chattanooga Hamilton County Family Justice Center (FJC): Provides co-located, trauma-informed services including crisis intervention, free counseling, legal support, referrals for shelter or safe housing, and help obtaining protective orders. Services are offered at no cost and are confidential.
• The Chattanooga Police Department Victim Services Unit: Offers follow-up support, court advocacy, crisis counseling, and assistance navigating the criminal justice system if you decide to report.

Campus Resources (for Students in Chattanooga)

• For students at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC), the university offers on-campus support through its Survivor Advocacy Services, Counseling Center, and Health Services. All services are confidential.
• Students who prefer off-campus support may also call the Partnership hotline for 24/7 crisis intervention.

Statewide & National Support Hotlines

(available if local resources are full, unreachable, or for general guidance)

• The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) National Sexual Assault Hotline provides confidential crisis support and referral to local agencies. Their phone number is 800-656-HOPE (4673).
• The Tennessee Coalition to End Domestic & Sexual Violence offers statewide help and information for survivors of sexual violence and abuse. Their services include referrals to local shelters, counseling centers, and legal aid.

Important Note: If you’re in immediate danger or feel unsafe, you can contact the Chattanooga Police Department. We understand this can be an overwhelming step. Survivors often find it helpful to speak first with a trusted advocate or counselor, who can explain what the reporting process looks like and help you decide what feels right for you. You deserve support and a way forward that best protects your well-being.

Time Limits for Filing a Sexual Abuse Claim

Every survivor of sexual abuse is entitled to pursue a civil lawsuit seeking financial compensation from their abuser.

That said, Tennessee law imposes strict time limits. Under Tennessee Code Annotated §§ 28-3-104 and 28-1-106, adult victims generally have one year to file a civil sexual abuse claim. Victims under 18 must file before their 19th birthday.

This differs significantly from criminal cases, where prosecution may occur years after the abuse.

Because many survivors struggle with shame or fear, it is critical to speak with a Chattanooga sexual abuse lawyer as soon as possible.

An experienced attorney can help file a civil claim, seek compensation, and connect survivors with state and local resources to support the healing process.

Contact a Chattanooga Sexual Abuse Attorney Today

You do not have to face the emotional, physical, and psychological effects of sexual abuse alone.

As a compassionate advocate and Chattanooga sexual abuse law firm, we can help survivors on the road to recovery by filing a civil lawsuit. We also connect them with programs, such as those we mention in our resources section. Our goal is to make sure sexual abuse survivors and their families get justice and compensation after going through such a traumatic event.

This will be a safe space for you to start telling your own story or that of a loved one. We’re here to listen. Contact our team today for a free consultation.