Butte Sexual Assault Lawyer

Sexual Assault Attorneys in Butte, MT

Crimes involving sexual assault, especially against children, are among the most harshly prosecuted crimes in Montana. As a victim, you have the right to pursue justice and compensation for the damages someone else has caused you, whether you have to pursue damages from the perpetrator or the institution that made the abuse possible. A compassionate Butte sexual assault lawyer from Doggett Law Offices can help you navigate the legal system and hold abusers accountable for their actions.

​Understanding the Difference Between Sexual Assault Criminal Charges and Civil Claims

​While sexual assault in Montana is a criminal offense that comes with its own penalties, assault victims can also file a claim in civil court to pursue compensation for their losses. Criminal cases in Montana are handled by local or state prosecutors, and as a victim, you rarely have much involvement in these cases beyond providing witness testimony and evidence. This includes having limited say in the punishment a perpetrator faces.

​However, in civil court, you bring a claim directly against a defendant to pursue damages. You and your Butte sexual assault attorney can present evidence, demonstrate the harm that you’ve endured, and negotiate for a settlement. If your attorney cannot negotiate a fair settlement outside of court, they can take your case to the courtroom to advocate for the damages you deserve.

​Keep in mind, the outcome of one case is not tied to the outcome of another. Because the burden of proof is higher in criminal cases, the abuser may be found not guilty in criminal court but still be ordered to pay compensation in civil court. A skilled sexual assault lawyer from Doggett Law Offices can help you understand how to pursue justice and what legal avenues are available to you.

​Compensation You Can Recover in a Sexual Assault Claim

​Nearly every minute, someone in the U.S. is the victim of sexual assault. Victims of sexual abuse in Butte and throughout Montana are entitled to damages that reflect the harm they’ve endured. Potential damages you can recover in a sexual assault claim include:​

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages and income
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Punitive damages

At Doggett Law Offices, we work to help our clients secure the damages they’re rightfully owed after suffering harm at the hands of another person or institution.

​Who Is Responsible for Sexual Assault Settlements in Montana?

​When you pursue justice after being sexually assaulted in Montana, the party that is responsible for paying damages may vary depending on the details surrounding your case. Because many sexual assault claims result in high settlements or court judgments, the average person is often unable to pay the settlement amount themselves. Luckily, you can also file a claim against the institution that protected the abuser and made the acts possible.

​These institutions can include:

• Churches and other religious organizations
• Summer camps
• Schools
• Athletic clubs and sports leagues
• Employers

A lawyer can help you determine the strongest path forward when recovering damages in a sexual assault claim.

​Why Choose Doggett Law Offices

​Since 2012, the team at Doggett Law Offices has been helping victims of sexual assault and other personal injuries pursue the compensation and justice they deserve. We combine relentless advocacy, clear communication, and compassion for our clients to deliver the fierce legal services you need to secure justice.

​When you choose Doggett Law Offices, you aren’t just another file on a desk. You can work directly with founding attorney Michael Doggett throughout your case and create a custom strategy tailored to your unique needs and goals. We know the mental and emotional toll sexual assault can have on victims, and we are dedicated to helping you pursue justice so you can move forward.​

FAQs​ About Sexual Assault Law

How Much Is a Sexual Assault Claim Worth in Montana?

​How much a sexual assault claim is worth varies from case to case in Montana. The severity of the crimes involved, the extent of the abuse, the damages the victim suffers, and a variety of other factors can all impact a final settlement or judgment. Additionally, cases involving children often result in large settlements and punitive damages, punishing abusers for egregiously poor behavior. In your claim, you can pursue compensation to cover your losses, future expenses, and pain and suffering.

​How Hard Is It to Succeed in a Sexual Assault Case in Montana?

​Success in a sexual assault case largely depends on the strength of your legal strategy, the experience of your attorney, and the evidence you have. When your case is managed by a seasoned lawyer with a track record of success in similar cases, you likely will have a better chance of recovering compensation. Similarly, if you have compelling evidence of the abuse, you’re more likely to succeed in court or settlement negotiations.

​What Evidence Is Needed to File a Claim Against Someone for Sexual Assault in Montana?​

To file a claim against someone for sexual assault in Montana, you need strong evidence to prove the act occurred and how it has affected you. You could use medical records, DNA evidence, forensic evidence, photographs or videos, communications from the defendant, and police reports. While often difficult to provide, victim testimony is often among the most compelling types of evidence. You should hire a sexual assault lawyer who can help you file a powerful claim and advocate for your rights.

​How Long Do I Have to File a Sexual Assault Claim in Montana?​

Following a sexual assault, you have a limited time to act in civil court.Montana Code Annotated § 27-2-204 generally gives assault victims two years from the date of the act to file a claim. The state has a different statute of limitations for child victims, as outlined inMCA §27-2-216. Under this statute, minor victims have until they turn 27 or three years after discovering the damage to file a claim.​

Hire a Sexual Assault Lawyer in Butte Today

​If you or a loved one has been the victim of sexual assault in Butte, you have the right to pursue justice. Hire a sexual assault lawyer from Doggett Law Offices to help you investigate the assault, collect evidence, and represent you in settlement negotiations or court proceedings. We know how difficult these cases can be for victims, which is why we provide compassionate support every step of the way. Contact Doggett Law Offices today to learn more.