What You Need to Know

Sexual abuse of males, and especially boys and teenagers, is unfortunately quite common in our society. The Lerners Sexual Assault and Abuse Team has extensive experience working with male survivors.

The Lerners Sexual Assault and Abuse Team wants every survivor and their family to have access to all the resources they need to begin down a path of healing.

It is vital for survivors of sexual assault and abuse to have a strong legal advocate – someone who can represent you, advocate for you, listen to you, and ensure your rights are protected.

If you’re the survivor of sexual assault or abuse you can bring it to the attention of police at any time. There is no time limit in Canada for reporting crimes.

On March 9, 2016, the Ontario Limitations Act was amended to remove all limitation periods for civil claims “based on sexual assault.”

Generally, most cases take between two and five years.

If you or someone you know has suffered or continues to suffer sexual assault or abuse of any kind, your first consideration and ours, is the survivor’s physical and emotional well-being.

Initiating a lawsuit can be overwhelming and very confusing for those unfamiliar with the law. At Lerners, we take the time to explain each step of the legal process, and present all options to our clients.

There are two primary ways in which the survivors of sexual assault or abuse can seek legal remedies: through criminal or civil lawsuits, or both.

The primary difference between criminal and civil sex assault and abuse cases is the different burdens of proof.

If you or someone you know is a survivor or is still suffering sexual assault or abuse of any kind, the most important consideration is the survivor’s physical and emotional safety and well-being.