Doctors are trained professionals who are trusted with the lives, health and safety of their patients. This is why it is so shocking and traumatic when they violate their duties of care with heinous sex crimes involving their patients. If you were sexually assaulted by a doctor or any health care professional in Illinois, learn the steps you need to take to protect yourself and seek the justice that you deserve.
Prioritize Your Safety
First and foremost, always prioritize your own safety. Nothing is more important than ensuring that you feel safe from the perpetrator and secure in your environment. You should not be alone while you cope with the trauma of the attack. Go to a place where you feel protected, such as a friend or family member’s house. In an emergency, call 911.
Tell Someone
It can be extremely difficult to talk about an incident as personal and traumatic as doctor sexual abuse. However, telling someone is the first step toward getting justice and raising awareness. Start with a trusted friend or relative, or, if you wish to remain anonymous, tell a support service such as the National Sexual Assault Hotline.
It is important to also get the mental and emotional support you need during this difficult time. Do not be afraid to ask for help. Reach out to a support group, therapist or counselor in Illinois who specializes in helping sexual assault survivors. You are not alone.
Get Medical Help
It is understandable that the last place you may wish to go after being sexually assaulted by a doctor is another professional health care setting. However, it is important to get checked by trained sexual assault medical practitioners for your own safety and well-being. In addition, a forensic sexual assault exam is the best way to collect DNA evidence against your perpetrator that can be used to bring him or her to justice.
Report the Assault
When you are ready, report the sexual assault to the correct authorities so that the proper actions can be taken to hold the health care provider accountable and protect future patients. This includes calling the police to report the sex crime; notifying the hospital, school or health care center where the perpetrator works; and filing a complaint against the doctor with the Illinois Department of Public Health.
Document Everything
Start laying the groundwork for a civil lawsuit against your assailant by documenting everything. Examples include:
- Health care documentation from a different medical provider
- Physical evidence, such as the clothes you were wearing
- Photographs of physical marks or injuries
- Evidence from a forensic exam
- Police reports
- Communications with the health care center
- Witness statements
- A description of what happened in your own words
The more information and evidence you collect regarding the sex crime, the stronger your case will be.
Seek Legal Advice
Consult with an attorney who specializes in doctor sexual assault cases in Illinois to go over your rights and legal options. You may be able to bring criminal charges against the assailant as well as file a civil lawsuit in pursuit of the financial compensation you deserve for your losses.
A lawyer from the Mahoney Law Firm will believe you. We will listen to your story and give you personalized legal advice at no cost or obligation. Initial consultations are always free and confidential. Contact us today.
