Sexual Assault Lawyers in Dallas, Texas
Texas experiences some of the highest rates of sexual crimes in the country, yet sexual abuse and assault often go unreported, leaving victims to deal with the aftermath alone. Sexual abuse victims often go through depression, anger, or shame and may experience physical consequences, like sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
It can take a lifetime to heal from sexual abuse, and no amount of money can undo the harm. But a lawsuit can help you pay for expenses, like counseling and medical treatment, for your healing journey.
Sexual Abuse Lawyer in Dallas
The attorneys at Blizzard Greenberg are passionate about helping sexual assault victims get compensation and justice. We know that pursuing a claim can be stressful. But our mission is to help you feel safe and protect your best interests, so that you can regain control of your life.
Types of Sexual Abuse & Sexual Assault
Some people may use the terms “sexual assault” and “sexual abuse” interchangeably. But according to Texas law, sexual assault is defined as rape. Sexual abuse doesn’t have an exact definition, but it might refer to other nonconsensual acts, such as:
- Fondling or sexual touching
- Sex trafficking
- Abuse of a minor
- Abuse of a person unable to consent
- Non-contact abuse, like flashing or voyeurism
Ultimately, all forms of sexual abuse violate your consent and ignore your right to say “no.”
Where Predators May Lurk: Where Sexual Abuse Most Often Occurs
Sexual assault can take place nearly anywhere in Dallas, from office buildings to retail stores. But some of the most common targets for predators include:
- Schools or colleges. One in five women and one in sixteen men are assaulted in college. Dallas is home to several popular college campuses, including the University of Texas at Dallas, Southern Methodist University, and the University of North Texas.
- Churches or religious organizations. In 2024 alone, 20 different Dallas area pastors received sexual misconduct allegations. Churches involved included Gateway Church in Southlake, Cross Timbers Church, Lakeside Baptist Church, and more.
- Hotels. Dallas has several popular hotels like the CANVAS Hotel, Magnolia Dallas Downtown, and Omni Dallas Hotel. Unfortunately, hotel assaults are escalating nationally, with chains like Holiday Inn and Hilton being popular targets.
- Rideshare or carpool services. Predators may drive for Uber or Lyft, then take advantage of their positions by kidnapping or assaulting riders.
- Massage parlors. Massage therapists can exploit or abuse clients during sessions. Chains like Massage Envy have faced allegations across the country, and there are eight different locations in and around the Dallas metro area.
Dallas Demographics & Sexual Abuse Statistics
- Dallas has a population of approximately 1.3 million people.
- Every 2 in 5 Texas women and 1 in 5 Texas men will experience sexual assault in their lifetimes.
- Texas has the highest number of forcible rape cases in the United States, with 15,094 total cases reported in the state in 2023 alone.
- The Dallas police reported 2,260 violent sex crimes and 178 non-violent sex crimes in 2024, a 4.4% and 20% decrease from 2023, respectively.
- According to the Dallas County Police, as many as 80% of sexual assaults go unreported.
Defendants in Sexual Assault Lawsuits
Ultimately, the perpetrator is solely responsible for your sexual assault and they can be found guilty in a criminal lawsuit. But, you can also work with a Dallas sexual assault lawyer to file a civil lawsuit when other people or businesses were negligent and failed to keep you safe from a predator.
For instance, places like hotels have a duty to keep their guests safe on the premises. If the hotel manager didn’t employ proper security measures or thoroughly vet their staff, they could potentially be liable in a civil lawsuit.
Other possible defendants in a sexual assault lawsuit might include:
- Teachers or educational faculty
- Landlords, property owners, or property managers
- Church leadership or volunteers
- Employers, such as massage parlors or rideshare companies
What to Do After Sexual Assault
Everyone processes sexual assault differently. But it’s important to know that it’s never your fault, and you have options for help, including the following:
- Call the Dallas police.
- Get medical help
- Call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-4673.
- Gather evidence, like witness statements or video footage.
- Contact a lawyer who represents sexual assault victims.
Understand Your Legal Options
After suffering a sexual crime, you might choose to pursue justice in criminal court, civil court, or both. Your legal counsel can advise you on the best choices for your claim.
In Texas, both criminal and civil sexual assault claims have a statute of limitations, which means that you only have a set amount of time after the date of the crime to file your claim.
In Texas, the statute of limitations for sexual assault is as follows.
- Statute of limitations for felony sexual assault: 10 years for felony cases when the victim is an adult, no limit when the victim was 17 or younger at the time.
- Statute of limitations for Sexual assault lawsuits: 5 years for adult victims, 30 years for people 17 and younger at the time.
It’s important to note that while a criminal claim can punish the perpetrator, only a civil claim can help you recover damages.
What Are the Damages You Can Recover in a Sexual Abuse Claim? –
The damages you can recover from a sexual abuse claim depend on the specifics of your case. But many people can file for the following damages:
- Therapy or counseling
- Medical bills
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages
What Our Sexual Abuse Lawyers Can Do for You
If you need help rebuilding your life after sexual abuse, Blizzard Greenberg is here to fight for your rights.
We’re devoted to helping sexual assault victims seek justice and get the funds they need to start their healing journey. In 2021, we won 44 million dollars for our clients at trial and aren’t afraid to stand up to large companies like Hilton, Lyft, and Massage Envy.
It takes bravery to reach out for help. We’ll ensure you feel comfortable and supported throughout this stressful time, so you know what to expect throughout the legal process. Contact our firm today for a free, discrete consultation of your case.
History & Landmarks In Dallas
Dallas was originally founded in 1841 by settler John Neely Bryan. While it began as a small river trading post, the construction of railroads and other industrialization later helped it grow into a prosperous city. Today, it’s the third-largest city in Texas and attracts more than 25.7 million visitors every year.
City of Dallas Municipal Court
2014 Main St, Dallas, TX 75201
Dallas County Courthouse
600 Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75202
Dallas Police
334 S. Hall St.
Dallas, Texas 75226
Dallas Regional Medical Center
1011 N Galloway Ave
Mesquite, TX 75149
