Memphis
Sexual Abuse
Lawyer

Your Rights as a Survivor of Sexual Abuse

The statute of limitations for civil sexual abuse cases in Memphis can be complex, as it may vary based on the circumstances surrounding each case. The law emphasizes the concept of “discovery,” which is the point when the injured party recognizes that their injury or illness resulted from child sexual abuse. Notably, “discovery” does not simply relate to the survivor’s awareness or memory of the abusive acts.

The statute of limitations for filing a civil lawsuit depends on the timing of the abuse and its discovery. For abuse that happened before July 1, 2019, but was not discovered at that time, survivors have three years from the date of discovery to commence legal action. For abuse occurring on or after July 1, 2019, the law allows a lawsuit within the later of the following periods: fifteen years from the date the survivor turns eighteen or, if the injury or illness wasn’t discovered at the time of the abuse, within three years from the date of discovery.

The law clarifies that survivors need not determine which specific incident within an ongoing series of abuse caused their injury or illness. They can instead base the discovery date on the last act of abuse that forms part of a larger pattern. Additionally, the survivor does not have to prove that they had psychologically repressed memories of the abuse.

Furthermore, Tennessee law is explicit about the conditions under which entities like organizations, institutions, or employers can be held liable for sexual abuse committed by their employees or representatives. These cases typically hinge on the entity’s negligence in hiring, supervision, or retention or if they have failed to take reasonable steps to prevent sexual misconduct.

Some parties whom you may be able to hold liable for sexual abuse include: 

• Schools and educational institutions
• Religious organizations and houses of worship
• Youth organizations (e.g., sports leagues, clubs)
• Healthcare facilities and hospitals
• Residential care facilities and nursing homes
• Government entities and agencies
• Corporations and businesses
• Non-profit organizations
• Foster care systems
• Daycare centers and childcare providers
• Hotels, resorts, and recreational facilities
• Correctional facilities and detention centers