Common Misconceptions: Addressing Myths Around Civil Claims for Sexual Assault Survivors

When you’ve experienced sexual assault, seeking justice can feel overwhelming. Many survivors believe myths about civil claims, such as needing a criminal conviction first or proving their case “beyond reasonable doubt.” These misconceptions often prevent people from accessing the support and compensation they deserve. At Ison Harrison, we want to clarify the facts and reassure survivors that legal options exist, even when the criminal process feels daunting.

Myth 1: “You can only claim if there’s a criminal conviction.”

Reality: Civil claims are completely separate from criminal proceedings. You do not need a conviction to bring a civil claim. The civil process focuses on compensation for harm caused, not punishment. Even if the police investigation didn’t lead to charges, you may still have a strong civil case.

Myth 2: “You must prove your case beyond reasonable doubt.”

Reality: In civil law, the standard of proof is lower than in criminal cases. Instead of “beyond reasonable doubt,” you only need to show that it is more likely than not that the assault occurred. This difference means many survivors succeed in civil claims even where criminal cases fail.

Myth 3: “Making a claim will be traumatic and public.”

Reality: At Ison Harrison, we prioritise your privacy and wellbeing. Most civil claims are handled sensitively and discreetly. We work to minimise stress and ensure you feel supported throughout the process.

Myth 4, “You must start a claim straight away or it will be too late.”

Reality: Limitation rules do apply, but the court has discretion to allow claims to proceed outside the usual time limits in sexual assault cases. Survivors often delay coming forward due to trauma, fear or lack of support. These reasons are understood, and late claims can and do succeed. We can assess this carefully and explain how the limitation rules apply to your circumstances.

Myth 5, “You will have to confront the perpetrator directly.”

Reality: In civil cases, survivors very rarely encounter the perpetrator. Communication takes place between solicitors, and any hearing is managed carefully by the court. We ensure that you are protected from unnecessary contact.

Myth 6, “If the perpetrator has no money, there is no point making a claim.”

Reality: Compensation may come from employers, institutions, or insurers depending on the circumstances. Claims involving schools, the armed forces, workplaces, charities or other organisations often proceed on this basis. You may also have access to Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority support in parallel, and we can guide you on how the two processes interact.

Myth 7, “Civil claims are about revenge rather than recovery.”

Reality: A civil claim is about acknowledging the harm you have suffered and securing the resources you need to rebuild. Compensation can cover therapy, medical treatment, loss of earnings and future care needs. It is a practical step towards recovery, not an act of retaliation.

How the Civil Claims Process Works

Initial Consultation: We listen to your story and explain your options in plain English. No jargon, no legal speak, just the information you need.
Evidence Gathering: This may include medical records, witness statements, or other documentation.
Negotiation or Court Proceedings: Many cases settle without going to court, but if needed, we’ll represent you robustly and diligently.
Compensation: A successful claim can provide financial support for therapy, lost earnings, and other needs.

Why Choose Ison Harrison?

We have decades of experience handling sensitive cases with compassion and expertise. Our team understands the emotional impact of sexual assault and will guide you through every step with care and respect.

Call to Action

If you’ve experienced sexual assault and want to understand your legal options, you are not alone. Contact our specialist team today for a confidential discussion.

Call us on 0113 284 5000
Email [email protected]

Recognition of Psychological Harm in Civil Claims and the Importance of Expert Medical Evidence

Survivors of sexual assault often carry invisible wounds, psychological injuries that can be just as debilitating as physical harm. At Ison Harrison, we understand that trauma manifests in many forms, and we are committed to ensuring that all aspects of a survivor’s suffering are recognised and addressed in the legal process.

Understanding Psychological Injury in Civil Claims

Psychological harm, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, or adjustment disorders, is increasingly acknowledged in civil claims, particularly in cases involving sexual assault. These injuries may not leave visible scars, but their impact on daily life, relationships, and work can be profound and long-lasting.

In civil law, compensation is available not only for physical injuries but also for psychiatric harm. However, proving psychological injury requires careful, sensitive handling and robust evidence.

Why Expert Medical Evidence Matters

To succeed in a claim for psychological injury, it is essential to obtain expert medical evidence. This typically involves an assessment by a consultant psychiatrist or psychologist who can:

Diagnose the psychological condition
Link the condition to the traumatic event
Assess the severity and prognosis
Recommend treatment or therapy

This evidence forms the foundation of your claim and helps the court or the defendant’s insurers understand the full extent of your suffering.

At Ison Harrison, we work with leading medical experts who are experienced in trauma-related conditions. We ensure that assessments are conducted with the utmost care and respect, recognising the courage it takes to revisit painful experiences.

The Claims Process: What to Expect

We know that taking legal action can feel overwhelming, especially when you are already coping with trauma. That’s why we aim to make the process as straightforward and supportive as possible:

Initial Consultation. A confidential conversation with one of our specialist lawyers to understand your experience and advise on your options.
Gathering Evidence: We collect medical records, witness statements, and arrange for expert assessments to support your claim.
Submitting the Claim. We’ll prepare and submit your claim, ensuring it reflects the full extent of your physical and psychological injuries.
Negotiation or Court Proceedings. Most claims settle out of court, but we are fully prepared to represent you in court if needed.
Support Throughout. We will be by your side every step of the way, offering legal guidance and signposting to therapeutic support where appropriate.

Why Choose Ison Harrison?

With decades of experience in personal injury and abuse claims, our team is known for its compassionate, trauma-informed approach. We understand the sensitivity required in these cases and are committed to helping survivors reclaim their voice and secure the justice they deserve.

We offer a free, confidential consultation and can often act on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis. Your wellbeing is our priority, and we will never pressure you to proceed if you’re not ready.

You Are Not Alone

If you’ve experienced sexual assault and are struggling with the psychological aftermath, know that you are not alone and you have legal rights. Recognising psychological injury is a vital step towards healing and justice.

Call: 0113 284 5000
Email: [email protected]
Book a callback

Why Bring a Claim for Sexual Assault

Exploring reasons survivors may choose to bring a civil claim, from financial redress to accountability

Sexual assault is a devastating violation of personal safety and dignity. Survivors often face long-lasting emotional, psychological, and financial consequences. While criminal proceedings may be one route to justice, many survivors also consider civil legal action to reclaim control, seek recognition, and secure compensation.

At Ison Harrison, we specialise in supporting survivors through this process with compassion, discretion, and legal expertise. We understand that deciding to take legal action is deeply personal and we’re here to help you explore your options safely and confidently.

What Is a Civil Claim for Sexual Assault?

A civil claim is a legal process where a survivor seeks compensation from the person or organisation responsible for the assault. Unlike criminal cases, which aim to punish offenders, civil claims focus on the survivor’s needs recognising the harm done and providing financial redress.

Claims can be brought against:

The perpetrator
Employers or institutions that failed in their duty of care subject to evidence of vicarious liability
Local authorities or care providers where safeguarding failures occurred

Civil claims are handled in the County Court or High Court, and the standard of proof is lower than in criminal cases, meaning survivors may succeed even if a criminal prosecution was not pursued or did not result in conviction.

Why Survivors Choose to Take Legal Action

Financial Redress for Tangible Losses

Survivors often face significant financial impacts, including:

Loss of earnings due to time off work or long-term inability to work
Medical expenses for physical injuries or trauma-related conditions
Therapy and counselling costs
Support needs, such as relocation or specialist care

A civil claim can help cover these costs, easing the financial burden and allowing survivors to focus on recovery.

Recognition and Accountability

Legal action can provide formal recognition of the harm suffered. For many survivors, this is a vital part of healing, especially where criminal justice outcomes have been disappointing or absent.

Holding perpetrators or negligent institutions accountable can also help prevent future harm to others. Survivors often tell us that knowing their actions may protect someone else gives them strength and purpose.

Empowerment and Control

Sexual assault takes away a person’s autonomy. Pursuing a civil claim can be a way to reclaim control over your story and your future. It allows survivors to make decisions on their own terms, supported by a legal team that listens, respects, and advocates for them.

Closure and Healing

While legal action cannot undo the trauma, it can offer a sense of closure. The process of being heard, believed, and supported can be profoundly healing. Many survivors find that bringing a legal claim helps them move forward with greater confidence and peace of mind.

What Does the Claims Process Involve?

At Ison Harrison, we guide survivors through each step with clarity and care:

Initial Consultation
We offer a confidential, no-obligation conversation to understand your situation and explain your legal options.
Evidence Gathering
This may include medical records, witness statements, safeguarding reports, or expert assessments. We handle this sensitively and discreetly.
Letter of Claim
We notify the defendant of your intention to bring a claim, outlining the basis and the harm suffered.
Negotiation and Settlement
Many claims are resolved through negotiation, avoiding the need for court. We aim to secure fair compensation while minimising stress.
Court Proceedings (if necessary)
If a settlement cannot be reached, we will represent you robustly in court, ensuring your voice is heard and your rights protected.

We work on a No Win, No Fee basis wherever possible, meaning you won’t pay a penny towards our legal fees unless your claim succeeds.

You’re Not Alone

We know how difficult it can be to talk about what happened. Many survivors worry about being judged, disbelieved, or retraumatised. At Ison Harrison, we take a trauma-informed approach. We’ll never rush you, and we’ll always respect your choices.

Whether you’re ready to take legal action or simply want to understand your options, we’re here to help. You deserve support. You deserve justice.

Contact Us

To speak confidentially with a member of our specialist team, call 0113 284 5000 or email: [email protected]

Your voice matters. Let us help you take the next step.

Civil Abuse Claims for Children

Childhood should be a time of safety, trust, and care. When that trust is broken through sexual abuse, the consequences can be lifelong. At Ison Harrison, we understand how deeply traumatic these experiences are and how difficult it can be to speak out. Our specialist team is here to help survivors and their families understand their legal rights and pursue justice through civil claims, with compassion and care at every step.

Civil Law Protections for Children

Under English law, children who have suffered sexual abuse have the right to bring a civil claim for compensation against the perpetrator or, in many cases, the institution responsible for safeguarding them. This could include schools, care homes, religious organisations, or local authorities.

The Sexual Offences Act 2003 provides robust protections for children, including specific offences for abuse against children under 13 and provisions that clarify consent and capacity. Civil claims are separate from criminal proceedings and focus on financial compensation and accountability.

Time Limits and Recent Legal Reforms

Historically, survivors had to bring a civil claim within three years of turning 18. However, this has proven unrealistic for many, as research shows it can take 24 to 27 years for survivors to disclose abuse. The courts recognise the issues surrounding the impact of sexual abuse and so frequently allows claims to be made outside of the prescribed limitation period.

Who Can Be Held Accountable?

Civil claims can be brought against:

The individual perpetrator: this is only practicable if known, alive, and with sufficient assets.
Institutions that failed in their duty of care e.g. schools, care homes, religious bodies.
Employers of the perpetrator, where abuse occurred in the context of employment, this is know as vicarious liability.

In some cases, survivors may also seek an apology from the institution involved. While not legally required, apologies can be transformative, offering validation and emotional healing.

What Compensation Covers

Compensation can help address:

Emotional and psychological trauma
Costs of therapy and support even if available on the NHS
Loss of education or career opportunities subject to providing evidence in support
Physical injuries or long-term health impacts

Each case is unique, and our team will work closely with you to understand your needs and build a claim that reflects your experience.

How Ison Harrison Can Help

We know that coming forward is incredibly difficult. Our solicitors are trained to handle these cases with sensitivity, confidentiality, and respect. We offer:

Free initial consultations
No win, no fee arrangements where appropriate
Specialist legal advice from experienced abuse claim lawyers
Support throughout the process, including referrals to counselling and survivor services

Taking the First Step

If you or someone you care about has experienced sexual abuse as a child, you are not alone, and you have options. Civil claims offer a pathway to justice, accountability, and healing.

Contact Ison Harrison today to speak confidentially with a solicitor who understands. We’re here to listen, advise, and support you every step of the way.

Call us on 0113 284 5000
Email [email protected]

How Compensation Is Calculated in Sexual Assault Claims

Understanding Your Right to Compensation

If you’ve experienced sexual assault, seeking compensation through a civil claim can be an important step in reclaiming control and accessing justice. At Ison Harrison, we understand how difficult this journey can be. Our specialist team offers compassionate, confidential support to help survivors understand their legal rights and options.

This article explains how compensation is calculated in sexual assault claims, including the types of damages available and what factors influence the final award.

What Does Compensation Cover?

Compensation in sexual assault claims is typically divided into two categories:

General Damages

These cover the pain, suffering and loss of amenity resulting from the assault. The amount awarded depends on:

The severity and nature of the assault
Psychological impact (e.g. PTSD, anxiety, depression)
Long-term effects on daily life, relationships, and employment

The Judicial College Guidelines provide a framework for assessing general damages. For example, awards for psychiatric injury can range from a few thousand pounds to over £100,000 in the most severe cases.

Special Damages

These compensate for financial losses directly linked to the assault, such as:

Loss of earnings (past and future)
Medical and therapy costs
Travel expenses for treatment
Costs of care or support

Special damages are calculated based on actual evidence, such as payslips, receipts, so it’s important to keep records.

Factors That Influence Compensation

Each case is unique. The final compensation amount will depend on:

The evidence available (medical, psychological, financial) supports the claims made by your solicitor
The overall impact on your life and wellbeing going forward
Whether the claim is made against an individual, employer, institution, or via the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). Claims against an employer or an institution will usually have an insurer to make payment whereas a claim against an individual will rely upon them having available assets to cover both compensation and legal fees.

Our team will guide you through the process, ensuring your claim is fully supported and sensitively handled.

Seeking Justice with Confidence

We know that coming forward can be daunting. At Ison Harrison, we offer a safe, confidential space to discuss your options. You don’t need to go through this alone.

Our experienced solicitors will listen without judgment, explain your rights clearly, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve. This applies whether you are seeking an award through civil proceedings or via the CICA scheme.

Contact Us

If you’re considering a sexual assault claim, speak to our specialist team today. We’re here to help you take the next step with confidence and care.

Call us on 0113 284 5000
Email: [email protected]

How Civil Courts Assess Damages in Sexual Assault Claims

When a person experiences sexual assault, the impact can be devastating—physically, emotionally, and psychologically. While no amount of money can undo the trauma, civil claims can offer survivors a sense of justice, recognition, and financial support to aid recovery. At Ison Harrison, we understand how sensitive and personal these cases are. Our team is here to guide you with compassion, clarity, and expertise.

Understanding Civil Claims for Sexual Assault

Unlike criminal proceedings, which focus on punishing the offender, civil claims are about compensating the survivor. These claims are brought against the perpetrator or, in some cases, an institution that failed in its duty of care, through the civil courts.

The standard of proof in civil cases is lower than in criminal trials. While criminal courts require proof “beyond reasonable doubt,” civil courts decide on the “balance of probabilities.” This means a survivor may still succeed in a civil claim even if there was no criminal conviction.

How Damages Are Assessed

Civil courts assess damages based on the harm suffered by the claimant. In sexual assault cases, this includes:

General Damages

These compensate for pain, suffering, and loss of amenity. Courts consider:

The nature and severity of the assault
Psychological harm (e.g. PTSD, anxiety, depression)
Impact on relationships, work, and daily life

Judges often refer to the Judicial College Guidelines, which provide a framework for valuing injuries, including psychiatric harm. For example, severe psychological damage with a poor prognosis may attract awards exceeding £100,000, while moderate cases may fall between £15,000 and £40,000.

Special Damages

These cover financial losses directly linked to the assault, such as:

Loss of earnings (past and future)
Therapy or counselling costs
Medical expenses
Travel costs for treatment

Each case is unique, and courts will require evidence, such as payslips, medical reports, and expert assessments, to support these claims.

Aggravated and Exemplary Damages

In some cases, courts may award aggravated damages to reflect particularly distressing or humiliating conduct by the defendant. Exemplary damages, though rare, may be awarded to punish especially egregious behaviour and deter others.

Real-World Considerations

In the case of JT v First Tier Tribunal, the court acknowledged that victims of sexual offences often suffer a wide range of effects beyond the physical and psychological, including long-term emotional distress and reduced quality of life

This recognition is crucial in ensuring survivors receive fair compensation that reflects the full impact of their experience.

Time Limits and Exceptions

Generally, survivors have three years from the date of the assault, or from when they first realised the harm caused, to bring a civil claim. However, courts can exercise discretion to allow claims outside this period, especially in cases involving childhood abuse or delayed trauma. If you’re unsure about time limits, we strongly encourage you to speak with us.

Why Choose Ison Harrison?

At Ison Harrison, we have a dedicated team experienced in handling sexual assault claims with the utmost sensitivity and discretion. We listen without judgment, explain your options clearly, and support you every step of the way. Whether you’re ready to take legal action or just want to understand your rights, we’re here to help.

Speak to Someone Who Understands

If you’ve experienced sexual assault and are considering a civil claim, you don’t have to face it alone. Contact our specialist team at Ison Harrison for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We’ll help you understand your rights and explore your options with care and respect.

Call us on 0113 284 5000
Email us at [email protected]

I Was Sexually Assaulted While on Holiday Abroad by a Member of the Hotel Staff – Can I Claim?

For many, a holiday abroad is a time of rest, joy, and escape. But for some, that experience is shattered by the trauma of sexual assault, especially when the perpetrator is someone entrusted with your safety, such as a member of the hotel staff. If this has happened to you, you may be left wondering: Can I claim compensation? Where do I even begin?

At Ison Harrison, we understand how overwhelming this situation can be. This article explains your potential legal options, including whether you can claim through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) and whether a civil claim against the hotel may be possible under the principle of vicarious liability.

Understanding the CICA Scheme – And Its Limits

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) is a government-funded scheme that provides financial compensation to victims of violent crime in England, Scotland, and Wales. It is designed to recognise the harm suffered by victims and help them move forward.

However, the CICA scheme has strict eligibility criteria, and one of the most important is location. The scheme generally only covers incidents that occur within Great Britain

So, what if the assault happened abroad?

Unfortunately, if the assault occurred outside the UK, CICA compensation is usually not available, even if you are a UK resident. There are very limited exceptions, such as if the assault was committed by a UK national and prosecuted in the UK, or if you were working abroad for the UK government or armed forces at the time

This means that for most victims of sexual assault abroad, CICA is not the route to compensation. But that does not mean you are without options.

Civil Claims: Holding the Hotel Accountable

If you were assaulted by a hotel employee, you may be able to bring a civil claim for compensation against the hotel itself. This is based on the legal principle of vicarious liability, where an employer can be held responsible for the wrongful acts of its employees if those acts are closely connected to their employment.

What does this mean in practice?

Let’s say a hotel cleaner used their access to your room to commit the assault. Or a member of the entertainment staff assaulted you during a hotel-organised event. In such cases, the hotel may be held vicariously liable for the actions of its employee.

To succeed in a civil claim, we would need to show:

The staff member was acting in the course of their employment when the assault occurred.
The hotel had a duty of care to protect guests and failed in that duty—perhaps by failing to vet staff properly, ignoring complaints, or not providing adequate security.
The assault caused you physical, emotional, or psychological harm.

If the hotel is part of a UK-based chain or has a UK presence, a civil claim may be brought in the UK courts. Where this isn’t possible, we can advise on legal options in the country where the assault occurred.

However, if your holiday was booked as a package through a UK tour operator, the Package Travel Regulations 2018, supported by the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA), may offer another route to compensation. These rules require UK travel organisers to ensure all parts of the holiday are delivered with reasonable care. If a hotel employee commits a criminal act while performing their duties, this may breach the contract. Following the Supreme Court’s decision in X v Kuoni, UK tour operators can be held liable for such incidents, even if they occur abroad. At Ison Harrison, we can assess whether your holiday falls under these regulations and advise on pursuing a claim against the tour operator where the hotel itself is outside UK jurisdiction.

Why Choose Ison Harrison?

At Ison Harrison, we have a long-standing reputation for supporting victims of sexual assault with compassion, discretion, and determination. We understand the courage it takes to come forward, and we are here to guide you every step of the way.

Our team offers:

Free, confidential consultations
Specialist legal advice on both CICA and civil claims
No-win, no-fee representation in appropriate cases
Support with police reporting, evidence gathering, and medical assessments
A trauma-informed approach that puts your wellbeing first

We don’t just handle claims—we help people rebuild their lives.

What Should You Do Next?

If you’ve been sexually assaulted abroad by a hotel staff member, here’s what we recommend:

Report the incident to the local police and request a copy of the report.
Seek medical attention and emotional support—your health and safety come first.
Keep any evidence, including hotel correspondence, witness details, or travel documents.
Contact Ison Harrison for expert legal advice on your options.

You Are Not Alone – Let Us Help You Seek Justice

Sexual assault is never your fault. And even if it happened abroad, you may still have a path to justice and compensation. At Ison Harrison, we are here to listen, advise, and act on your behalf.

Call us today on 0113 284 5000
Email: [email protected]

Compensation for PTSD, Anxiety and Trauma After Sexual Assault: A Survivor’s Pathway to Justice

For many survivors of sexual assault, the trauma does not end with the event itself. It lingers – in flashbacks, in disrupted sleep, in overwhelming anxiety, and in a quiet but relentless sense of fear. These psychological wounds can shape every aspect of life: work, relationships, health, and self-worth.

At Ison Harrison, we recognise that what follows a sexual assault can be just as harrowing as the event itself. That’s why we offer not only legal representation but informed, compassionate support for those living with the long-term impact of trauma. If you or someone you care about is coping with the aftermath of sexual violence, know that you are not alone and there are legal pathways available to help you rebuild.

What PTSD Feels Like After Sexual Assault

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is not just a clinical label. For survivors, it can mean vivid, intrusive memories that strike without warning. It can mean avoiding people or places that remind them of what happened, or feeling emotionally numb to the world around them. In more complex cases, especially where abuse or assault was repeated over time, survivors may experience Complex PTSD—a condition that can distort self-image and make even daily tasks feel unmanageable.

The NHS describes PTSD as an anxiety disorder caused by distressing or frightening events. In legal terms, it is a recognised psychological injury – and one that can form the basis of a claim for compensation.

Legal Routes to Compensation for Psychological Trauma

Seeking justice after a sexual assault is never easy, and for some, confronting the legal system may feel daunting. But there are several routes through which survivors can claim compensation for PTSD and related mental health conditions – each designed to acknowledge harm and offer practical support for healing.

Civil Claims Against the Offender

If the perpetrator is known and has the financial means to pay compensation, it may be possible to bring a civil claim directly against them. While this route is not always suitable, it allows survivors to seek damages for emotional suffering, therapy costs, and lost income – on their own terms.

Claims Against Organisations That Failed in Their Duty of Care

In some cases, the assault took place within a setting where someone else should have protected you—a school, a workplace, a care institution. When such bodies fail to act on warning signs or create safe environments, they may be legally liable. These cases are complex, but they are also essential in exposing systemic failings and preventing further harm.

Applying to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA)

The CICA is a government-funded scheme that provides compensation to victims of violent crime, including those who have suffered sexual assault. Crucially, a conviction is not necessary—only that the assault was reported to the police. Compensation can be awarded for diagnosed psychological injuries such as PTSD, even when the offender is unknown or not prosecuted.

What Can Be Claimed For?

Compensation is not just about money. It’s about recognition, support, and the chance to recover with dignity. Claims can cover:

General damages for pain, suffering, and emotional distress
Medical costs, including therapy, counselling, and psychiatric support
Loss of earnings, both past and future
Long-term care, where psychological injuries affect daily functioning

The amount awarded depends on the severity of the trauma and the impact it has had on your life. Tools such as the Judicial College Guidelines and CICA tariff tables help determine appropriate levels of compensation.

What Evidence Is Needed?

Survivors often worry about what they will need to ‘prove’ in order to make a claim. While the legal process does require some evidence, our team handles this with sensitivity and care. Typical supporting documents may include:

Medical records or GP referrals
Psychological assessments or psychiatric reports
Police reports or crime reference numbers
Statements from family, friends, or professionals

We understand how difficult it can be to revisit what happened. Our role is to make that process as manageable and respectful as possible.

Why Choose Ison Harrison?

We are proud to be one of the few law firms with a dedicated team experienced in supporting survivors of sexual violence. Here’s what you can expect from us:

A trauma-informed approach from day one
No Win, No Fee representation to minimise financial risk
Expertise in CICA claims, civil litigation, and institutional liability
Absolute discretion, dignity, and empathy at every stage

Whether you want to talk, ask questions, or simply explore your options, we are here for you, without pressure or judgment.

Take the First Step

Reaching out is not a sign of weakness—it’s the beginning of taking back control. If you’ve experienced sexual assault and are living with the effects of trauma, you deserve to be heard, supported, and compensated. Call us on 0113 284 5000 or email [email protected].

Taking Back Control: Legal Options for Victims of Rape and Sexual Assault

Experiencing rape or sexual assault is a devastating violation that can leave survivors feeling powerless, isolated, and unsure of where to turn. At Ison Harrison, we believe that every survivor deserves to be heard, supported, and empowered to take back control of their life. One way to begin that journey is by understanding your legal rights and the options available to seek justice and compensation.

Understanding Your Legal Options

If you have been the victim of rape or sexual assault, there are several legal routes you may be able to pursue. These include:

Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) Claims

The CICA is a government-funded scheme that provides financial compensation to victims of violent crime in England, Scotland, and Wales. You may be eligible to apply if:

The assault was reported to the police.
You apply within two years of the incident (exceptions may apply).
You suffered physical or psychological injury as a result.

At Ison Harrison, we can guide you through the CICA application process, ensuring your claim is presented clearly and comprehensively to maximise your chances of success.

Civil Claims Against the Perpetrator

You may also be able to bring a civil claim directly against the person who assaulted you. This route allows you to seek compensation for:

Pain and suffering
Psychological trauma
Loss of earnings
Medical or counselling expenses

Unlike criminal proceedings, civil claims are decided on the balance of probabilities, which means the burden of proof is lower. Our experienced solicitors can help you assess the strength of your case and pursue justice through the civil courts.

Civil Claims Against an Employer or Institution

In some cases, the perpetrator may have been acting in the course of their employment or under the authority of an organisation. For example:

A doctor or healthcare professional
A teacher, coach, or religious leader
A colleague or manager in the workplace

If there is a clear link between the assault and the perpetrator’s role, we may be able to bring a claim against their employer or the institution responsible. These cases can be complex, but our team has the expertise to investigate and build a strong case on your behalf.

Why Choose Ison Harrison?

At Ison Harrison, we understand that coming forward can be incredibly difficult. That’s why we offer:

Compassionate, confidential support from experienced solicitors
No win, no fee representation (subject to terms)
Clear, jargon-free advice tailored to your situation
A safe, non-judgemental environment where your voice is heard

We are committed to helping survivors of sexual violence reclaim their power and pursue justice in a way that feels right for them.

Taking the First Step

You don’t have to go through this alone. Whether you’re ready to make a claim or just want to understand your options, we’re here to help. Call our team in complete confidence on 0113 284 5000 or email us at [email protected]

Vicarious Liability for Sexual Assault: Understanding Your Rights

When someone experiences sexual assault, the trauma can be overwhelming – not only emotionally and physically, but also in navigating the legal system. One important legal concept that may apply in these cases is vicarious liability. This principle can help survivors seek justice and compensation, even when the perpetrator is not the only party responsible.

What Is Vicarious Liability?

Vicarious liability is a legal doctrine where an organisation; such as an employer, school, or care provider, can be held legally responsible for the wrongful acts of its employees or agents, even if the organisation itself did not directly commit the act.

In the context of sexual assault, this means that if an assault was committed by someone in a position of authority or trust (such as a teacher, carer, or religious leader), the institution that placed them in that role may also be held accountable.

When Does Vicarious Liability Apply?

The courts consider several factors when deciding whether an organisation is vicariously liable for sexual abuse or assault:

The nature of the relationship: Was the perpetrator in a role that gave them power or control over the survivor?
The connection to the wrongful act: Did the abuse occur in the context of the perpetrator’s duties or position?
The opportunity created by the organisation: Did the institution enable or fail to prevent the abuse?

A landmark case in this area is Various Claimants v Catholic Child Welfare Society [2012] UKSC 56, where the Supreme Court held that a religious order was vicariously liable for abuse committed by its members. More recently, courts have extended this principle to cover abuse by volunteers, foster carers, and even individuals on work experience

Why This Matters for Survivors

Understanding vicarious liability is crucial because it opens the door to compensation from institutions that may have failed in their duty of care. Survivors often feel powerless when the perpetrator alone is held responsible; especially if that person has limited financial means or is deceased. Holding institutions accountable can provide a sense of justice and help prevent future harm to others.

How Ison Harrison Can Help

At Ison Harrison, we understand the courage it takes to come forward. Our specialist team has extensive experience in handling sensitive sexual assault claims with compassion, discretion, and determination. We will listen to your story, explain your legal options clearly, and support you every step of the way.

We can help you:

Determine whether vicarious liability applies in your case
Gather evidence and build a strong claim
Seek compensation for the harm you’ve suffered
Hold institutions accountable for their failures

You Are Not Alone

If you or someone you care about has experienced sexual assault, please know that you are not alone and you have legal rights. We are here to help you understand those rights and pursue justice in a way that feels safe and empowering.

Contact our specialist team today for a free, confidential consultation. Call us on 0113 284 5000 or email [email protected] to speak with someone who understands.