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St. Louis Abuse & Assault Attorneys Fighting for Survivors

If you or someone you love has survived abuse or assault, you are not alone. We believe you. Coming forward takes tremendous courage. Right now, you may be dealing with medical bills, missed work, sleepless nights, and overwhelming emotions.

Insurance companies and institutions may already be pressuring you, and the person or organization responsible may be denying everything.

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    Let Us Make Your Case, Our Cause

    Our abuse and assault attorneys at OnderLaw understand what you’re facing. We have helped survivors across St. Louis and Southern Illinois hold perpetrators and negligent institutions accountable for decades, recovering over $5 billion for our clients in all types of cases. Your consultation is completely free and confidential. You pay nothing unless we win. Call (314) 408-6136 today.

    Whether your assault happened recently or years ago—and whether you reported it to police or not—you may have legal options. This guide will help you understand your rights under Missouri law, who can be held responsible, and how our team can fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. We don’t just take on cases. We take on causes.

    James Onder Attorney OnderLaw | Photo Jim Onder

    Onder Wins

    Our attorneys have decades of combined experience handling abuse and assault cases. We’ve taken on individuals, institutions, and corporations, and we’re not afraid to go to trial against large defendants who think they’re untouchable. We understand trauma and its effects. Our team communicates on your terms—phone, email, or in-person. We maintain strict confidentiality, never judge, and only advocate.

    • $5+ Billion In Negotiated Settlements
    • $300M+ In Jury Verdicts
    • Voted Best Law Firm In St. Louis 
    Personal Injury Case Consultation

    “Every case is an opportunity to protect someone else’s family from tragedy”

    Attorney Jim Onder in Downtown St. Louis in front of the courthouse
    Jim Onder
    Founder & Managing Partner

    Understanding Abuse and Assault Law in Missouri  

    Missouri law provides civil remedies for survivors of abuse and assault that are separate from any criminal prosecution. Understanding the legal definitions helps clarify your rights and options.

    What Qualifies as Assault Under Missouri Law

    In Missouri, assault is the threat or attempt to cause harm that creates reasonable fear of imminent injury, while battery is the actual harmful or offensive physical contact.

    Simple assault involves threatening behavior without serious injury. Aggravated assault involves serious physical injury or use of a deadly weapon. Both can support civil lawsuits for damages.

    You don’t need to prove the perpetrator intended to hurt you permanently—you need to show they intended the threatening or harmful contact

    What Qualifies as Sexual Assault and Abuse

    Any unwanted sexual contact can support a civil claim, including touching, groping, forced sexual acts, and exploitation of power imbalances.

    Learn More

    Understanding Consent in Missouri

    Consent must be freely given. Under Missouri law, consent cannot exist when:

    • The victim is under the legal age of consent (17 in Missouri)
    • The victim is incapacitated by drugs, alcohol, or disability
    • The victim is coerced through threats, force, or abuse of authority
    • The victim is unconscious or asleep

    A prior relationship does not equal ongoing consent. Saying yes once does not mean yes forever.

    OnderLaw Recent Case Results

    Our greatest results have been the relationships we’ve forged with clients we’ve helped and the lives they’ve achieved after horrific accidents with the settlements our work brought about.

    Every case is different and handled differently, but we are proud of what we have accomplished on behalf of previous clients. From multi billion dollar mass tort settlements to individual personal injury verdicts, we fight for every penny of compensation our clients deserve.

    Past results do not guarantee future outcomes; every case is different.

    Recent victories creating lasting change across Missouri
    $110M Products Liability
    $20.8M False Advertising Class Action
    $2.7M Forklift Accident
    $1.1M Tractor Trailer Collision
    $1.3M Highway Fatality and Dram Shop/Bar Owner Liability
    $1.4M Construction Jobsite Accident
    $1.5M Premises Liability/ Sexual Assault and Rape
    $3M Forklift Death

    Types of Abuse and Assault Cases We Handle

    OnderLaw represents survivors of abuse and assault in a wide range of circumstances. Our attorneys have experience with cases involving individuals, institutions, and property owners who failed in their duty to protect.

     

    Child Sexual Abuse Cases

    Sexual abuse of children by family members, caregivers, teachers, coaches, or other trusted adults. These cases often involve grooming behaviors and may take years for survivors to come forward. Missouri law provides extended time limits for childhood abuse survivors to sue their abusers.

     

    School Sexual Abuse and Misconduct

    Teachers, coaches, administrators, or other school employees who abuse their authority. Schools that fail to properly screen employees, ignore warning signs, or cover up reports of abuse may be held liable under negligence theories.

    Daycare and Childcare Abuse

    Sexual or physical abuse at daycare centers, in-home childcare, or after-school programs. Negligent hiring, inadequate supervision, and failure to conduct background checks can create institutional liability.

    Medical Professional Sexual Abuse

    Doctors, nurses, therapists, or other healthcare providers who exploit the patient-provider relationship, including assaults during examinations or treatment. Hospitals and clinics may share liability for failing to protect patients.

    Nursing Home and Elder Abuse

    Sexual or physical assault of elderly residents, including staff-on-resident abuse, resident-on-resident assault, and facility failure to protect vulnerable populations. Federal regulations under 42 C.F.R. §483.12 establishes baseline protection requirements for nursing homes.

    Our St. Louis nursing home abuse lawyers understand the unique challenges these cases present and fight to hold facilities accountable for failing to protect vulnerable residents.

    Assault at Hotels, Bars, and Entertainment Venues

    Negligent security cases where inadequate lighting, lack of security cameras, insufficient staff, or failure to address known dangers enabled assault. Property owners have a duty to protect visitors from foreseeable criminal acts.

    These premises liability cases require proving that the property owner knew or should have known about the danger and failed to take reasonable steps to prevent harm.

    Workplace Sexual Assault and Harassment

    Sexual assault or severe harassment by coworkers, supervisors, or customers. Employer failure to investigate or take action on reports may create liability.

    Rideshare Assault (Uber/Lyft)

    Sexual assault by rideshare drivers, including cases involving company failure to conduct proper background checks or respond to prior complaints.

     

    Sports Team and Coach Abuse

    Sexual abuse by coaches, trainers, or team doctors. Athletic organizations that ignored warning signs or failed to implement safety protocols may face liability.

    Assault by Residential Staff

    Sexual or physical assault at residential treatment facilities, group homes, or assisted living facilities, including failure to properly screen, train, or supervise staff.

     

    Campus Sexual Assault

    Assault occurring on college or university property. Title IX violations, inadequate security, or institutional failure to protect students may support claims.

     

    Clergy and Religious Institution Abuse

    Sexual abuse by priests, pastors, youth ministers, or other religious leaders. Institutional cover-ups and failure to remove known abusers may create liability. Historical abuse cases dating back decades may still have legal options depending on the specific circumstances.

    Led by Attorneys Who Believe in Causes,
    Not Just Cases

    Our Personal Injury Attorneys have decades of experience transforming personal tragedies into wins for our clients.

    Kayla Ferrel with long brown hair wearing a black blazer over a blue top, accessorized with a pendant necklace, poses against a plain white background.

    Kayla R. Ferrel Onder

    Sexual Abuse Attorney
    “ Every survivor deserves to be heard and believed, and I’m here to help make that happen. ”
    Learn More
    A man with short brown hair wearing a gray pinstripe suit, light blue dress shirt, and red striped tie, poses for a professional headshot against a white background.

    Michael D. Griffith

    Sexual Abuse Attorney
    “ Thorough preparation and compassion are the cornerstones of meaningful justice for survivors. ”
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    James Onder Attorney OnderLaw | Photo Jim Onder

    James G. Onder

    Founder And Attorney
    “ Every case is an opportunity to protect someone else’s family from tragedy. ”
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    W. Wylie Blair - Attorney Onderlaw

    W. Wylie Blair

    Pharmaceutical & Medical Products Litigation Attorney
    “ Landmark verdicts don’t just compensate victims; they drive industry‑wide change. ”
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    Matt P. O'Grady - Attorney

    Matt O'Grady

    Bad Faith Insurance Claims and Personal Injury Attorney
    “ Insurance companies must honor their promises—when they don’t, we hold them accountable. ”
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    Cynthia L. Garber - Attorney

    Cynthia L. Garber

    Pharmaceutical and Medical Products Litigation Attorney
    “ Fighting for justice in mass torts is about giving a voice to those harmed by negligence. ”
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    Stephen Niemira

    Stephen P. Niemira

    Personal Injury Attorney
    “ Standing up to powerful corporations is a legacy I’m proud to continue. ”
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    Derek Sieck - Attorney

    Derek P. Sieck

    Medical Products Litigation Attorney
    “ From clerk to attorney, my mission remains to secure fair outcomes for injured clients. ”
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    meet our attorneys

    Who Can Be Held Liable in Abuse and Assault Cases

    Multiple parties may be responsible when abuse or assault occurs. While the perpetrator bears direct responsibility, institutions and property owners may also be liable for enabling the harm through their negligence.

    The Individual Perpetrator

    The person who committed the assault is directly liable for their criminal acts. You can pursue a civil claim even without a criminal conviction because the civil burden of proof is lower—you must show the abuse “more likely than not” occurred, not “beyond reasonable doubt.”

    However, individual perpetrators often lack the financial resources to pay significant judgments, which is why identifying institutional defendants matters.

    Property Owners and Businesses

    Property owners owe a duty to maintain safe premises for visitors. When inadequate security measures enable assault, the property owner may share liability.

    Examples of negligent security include:

    • Insufficient lighting in parking areas
    • Broken locks or doors
    • Lack of security cameras
    • Failure to employ adequate security personnel
    • Ignoring prior incidents on the property

    Hotels, motels, apartment complexes, bars, nightclubs, and parking garages may all face premises liability claims. Under the Missouri Supreme Court’s decision in Harner v. Mercy Hospital Joplin (2023), foreseeability is the touchstone for determining whether a property owner had a duty to protect against criminal acts.

    Schools and Universities

    Schools have a duty to protect students and may be liable for:

    • Negligent hiring of employees with dangerous backgrounds
    • Failing to remove employees after receiving complaints
    • Ignoring warning signs of abuse
    • Covering up reported incidents

    Public schools have sovereign immunity protections under RSMo §537.600, but limited waivers exist where the school maintains liability insurance (RSMo §537.610).

    Employers and Businesses

    Employers must maintain safe workplaces and may face liability for:

    • Failing to investigate harassment complaints
    • Negligent hiring or supervision
    • Creating or tolerating hostile environments
    • Retaining employees with known dangerous propensities

    Important: If your assault occurred at work, and you received workers’ compensation benefits, the exclusive remedy rule under RSMo §287.120 may limit your ability to sue your employer directly. However, you may still have claims against individual co-workers or third parties.

    Religious Organizations and Nonprofits

    Churches and religious organizations may be liable for:

    • Institutional cover-ups of abuse
    • Transferring known abusers to new locations
    • Failing to implement safety policies
    • Ignoring complaints from victims or parents

     

    Healthcare Facilities and Providers

    Hospitals and clinics may be liable for:

    • Credentialing failures that allow dangerous providers to practice
    • Inadequate supervision of staff
    • Failing to act on patient complaints
    • Not reporting misconduct to licensing boards

    The Legal Process for Abuse and Assault Cases

    Understanding what to expect helps reduce anxiety about the legal process. Our trauma-informed approach prioritizes your wellbeing at every step.

    Talk To A Lawyer

    1. Free, Confidential Case Evaluation

      Your first step is a free consultation with our team. We’ll listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain your legal options without any pressure to proceed.

      Helpful information to bring includes:

      • Timeline of events
      • Names of witnesses
      • Medical records
      • Police reports (if any)
      • Communications with the perpetrator or institution

    2. Investigation and Evidence Gathering

      If you choose to move forward, we investigate thoroughly. This includes:

      • Collecting documents and records
      • Interviewing witnesses
      • Consulting with medical and psychological experts
      • Researching prior incidents involving the defendant
      • Conducting background checks

       

    3. Discovery Process

      Both sides exchange information through discovery, including:

      • Document requests
      • Depositions (recorded testimony)
      • Expert witness reports

      We can seek protective orders to keep sensitive information confidential.

    4. Settlement Negotiations

      Many cases resolve through negotiated settlements before trial. You control whether to accept any settlement offer. We’ll advise you on the strengths and weaknesses of offers, but the decision is always yours.

    5. Trial Preparation and Trial

      If your case proceeds to trial, we prepare you thoroughly. We handle jury selection, present evidence, and advocate for you in the courtroom.

      Most cases resolve within 12-24 months, though complex cases involving multiple defendants or historical abuse may take longer.

    Talk To A Lawyer

    Criminal vs. Civil Assault and Abuse Cases

    Criminal and civil cases are separate legal proceedings with different purposes, standards, and outcomes.

    Criminal Assault Cases

    Criminal cases are prosecuted by the state or district attorney—not by you. The purpose is to punish the offender and protect society.

    Outcomes include jail time, fines, probation, and sex offender registration. The prosecution must prove guilt “beyond reasonable doubt”—a very high standard.

    You have no control over whether charges are filed or how the case proceeds, and criminal cases do not provide financial compensation to victims.

    Civil Assault Lawsuits

    Civil lawsuits are filed by you (the plaintiff) against the perpetrator and any liable institutions. The purpose is to compensate you for your injuries and losses.

    The burden of proof is “preponderance of the evidence”—meaning more likely than not. This is a lower standard than criminal cases.

    You control the case and decide whether to settle or go to trial. Successful claims result in monetary damages.

    How Criminal and Civil Cases Interact

    You can pursue both simultaneously. A criminal conviction helps your civil case, but an acquittal doesn’t prevent civil recovery.

    Civil discovery often uncovers evidence that criminal investigations missed. Many survivors win civil cases even when criminal charges were never filed.

    Why You May Still Have a Case Even Without Criminal Charges

    Prosecutors decline many valid cases due to:

    • Resource limitations
    • Difficulty meeting the “beyond reasonable doubt” standard
    • Witness availability issues
    • Backlogged courts

    According to RAINN, significant under-reporting of sexual assault means many crimes never enter the criminal justice system at all. The absence of criminal charges says nothing about whether abuse occurred.

    Statute of Limitations for Abuse and Assault Cases in Missouri  

    Missouri law limits how long you have to file a lawsuit. These deadlines are strict, and missing them can permanently bar your claim.

     

    Missouri Statute of Limitations for Adult Assault

    Under Missouri law (RSMo §516.140), adult assault and battery claims must be filed within two years from the date of the assault.

    Negligence claims—including negligent security and negligent supervision—have a five-year limitation period under RSMo §516.120(4).

    Missouri Statute of Limitations for Childhood Sexual Abuse

    Missouri provides extended time for childhood sexual abuse survivors.

    Under RSMo §516.170, the statute of limitations is tolled (paused) while the victim is a minor. The clock begins running when the victim turns 21.

    RSMo §537.046, amended effective August 28, 2025, provides additional time to sue the perpetrator of childhood sexual abuse. Survivors may file until age 31 or within three years of discovering the abuse and its connection to psychological harm, whichever is later.

    Important clarification: The extended timeframe under §537.046 applies primarily to claims against the perpetrator who committed the abuse. Claims against institutions—schools, churches, employers—are typically governed by standard negligence statutes of limitations and must be evaluated separately under common law negligence theories.

    Special Rule for Sexual Contact by Relative

    Under RSMo §516.371, survivors of sexual contact by a relative within the third degree have ten years to file a civil claim.

    Discovery Rule and Delayed Memory

    Missouri recognizes that some survivors repress memories of abuse or don’t connect their psychological harm to the abuse until later. The “discovery rule” may extend deadlines in these situations.

    However, discovery rule cases face additional evidentiary challenges, and expert testimony is typically required.

    Why You Should Act Quickly

    Even if time remains on your deadline:

    • Evidence degrades or disappears
    • Witnesses’ memories fade
    • Security footage is often deleted after 30-90 days
    • Defendants may relocate or become insolvent
    • Institutions may destroy records

    Contact an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.

     

    Missouri law limits how long you have to file a lawsuit. These deadlines are strict, and missing them can permanently bar your claim.

     

    Understanding Your Compensation Rights

     

    Economic Damages

    These are your measurable financial losses:

    • Past and future medical expenses
    • Therapy and counseling costs
    • Psychiatric care
    • Lost wages and earning capacity
    • Cost of relocation or security measures

    Non-Economic Damages

    These compensate for intangible harms:

    • Pain and suffering
    • Emotional distress and trauma
    • Loss of enjoyment of life
    • Anxiety, depression, and PTSD
    • Loss of consortium (for spouses)

    Punitive Damages

    Missouri allows punitive damages when defendants acted with “complete indifference to or conscious disregard for the safety of others.” Under RSMo §510.261, plaintiffs must file a motion for leave to seek punitive damages and prove their case by clear and convincing evidence. Punitive damages are generally capped at $500,000 or five times compensatory damages, whichever is greater (RSMo §510.265). However, no cap applies when the defendant acted with intent to cause harm. Important: Punitive damages are often not covered by insurance and may be difficult to collect from individuals without substantial assets. We assess collectibility early in every case.

    Factors That Affect Case Value

    Every case is unique. Factors include: type and duration of abuse, age of victim at time of abuse, physical injuries sustained, psychological impact and diagnosis, defendant’s conduct (cover-ups may increase value), defendant’s financial resources and insurance, and strength of evidence.

    Talk To A Lawyer

    What Our Clients Say

    I called in today and Dawn in client relations was super understanding and actually cared about my situation. I truly appreciate that

    Amanda Kay House

    OnderLaw Client

    Sabrina at the Onder law firm has been amazing to work with. Super professional and knowledgeable. I’ve always felt comfortable with her and she’s made this process easier for me! I would use Onder Law Firm with Sabrina’s services over and over and over again if I had too.

    Kay Bieber

    OnderLaw Client

    Tonya Benton shows so much care. She treats me just like family.

    Mike Benton

    OnderLaw Client

    Common Challenges in Abuse and Assault Cases (And How OnderLaw Overcomes Them)

    Defense attorneys use predictable strategies to defeat abuse claims. Our experience helps us anticipate and overcome these challenges.

    "Consent" Defenses

    Defendants often claim the victim consented. We counter this by: presenting evidence of incapacitation, documenting power imbalances, showing coercion or threats, and establishing that prior consent doesn’t equal ongoing consent.

    "He Said/She Said" Evidence Challenges

    Defendants claim it’s just one person’s word against another. We find corroborating evidence through: prior complaints or other victims, pattern evidence from the defendant’s history, expert testimony on trauma responses, institutional knowledge of warning signs, and physical evidence and medical records.

    Institutional Denial and Cover-Up

    Organizations claim they didn’t know about the danger. We investigate: prior incident reports, whistleblower witnesses, industry standards for protection, background check failures, and ignored complaints. The Missouri Supreme Court’s decision in Harner v. Mercy Hospital Joplin (2023) established that foreseeability is the touchstone for institutional duty. Missouri courts apply a narrow foreseeability test, so we build cases showing defendants knew or should have known about the specific type of danger that occurred.

    Victim-Blaming Tactics

    Defendants attack the victim’s credibility or behavior. We respond by: seeking protective orders limiting invasive discovery, educating jurors about trauma responses, presenting expert testimony on why survivors delay reporting, and focusing on the defendant’s conduct, not the victim’s.

    Delayed Reporting

    Many survivors don’t report immediately. According to RAINN, delayed reporting is common due to trauma, fear, shame, or relationship with the perpetrator. We present expert testimony explaining the science of trauma and disclosure. Delayed reporting doesn’t mean abuse didn’t happen.

    Defense attorneys use predictable strategies to defeat abuse claims. Our experience helps us anticipate and overcome these challenges.

    Resources for Abuse and Assault Survivors in St. Louis

    OnderLaw believes in holistic support for survivors. While we handle the legal aspects of your case, these trusted resources provide emotional support, medical care, and crisis intervention.

    Medical Resources
    Medical and Forensic Services

    24/7 Crisis Hotlines

    • National Sexual Assault Hotline: 800-656-HOPE (4673)
    • Safe Connections Crisis Line: (314) 531-2003
    • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
    • Child Abuse Hotline: (800) 422-4453

    St. Louis Area Advocacy and Support Services

    • ALIVE (Alternatives to Living in Violent Environments): Crisis intervention and support services
    • Safe Connections: Sexual assault services and counseling
    • YWCA Metro St. Louis Regional Sexual Assault Center: Comprehensive survivor services
    • Crime Victim Advocacy Center: Court accompaniment and advocacy

    SANE

    Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) exams are available at area hospitals. These exams preserve evidence and provide medical care. Missouri’s Crime Victims’ Compensation Program may help cover costs.

    Mental Health Services

    Trauma-specialized therapists can help with PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Many offer sliding scale fees, and support groups connect survivors with others who understand.

    Victims’ Compensation

    The Missouri Crime Victims’ Compensation Program through the Department of Public Safety provides financial assistance for medical expenses, counseling, lost wages, and other costs. Contact Missouri DPS for current program details and eligibility

    WHY CHOOSE ONDERLAW

    Comprehensive Experience Across All Abuse and Assault Cases

    Our attorneys have decades of combined experience handling abuse and assault cases. We’ve taken on individuals, institutions, and corporations, and we’re not afraid to go to trial against large defendants who think they’re untouchable.

    Trauma-Informed, Compassionate Representation

    We understand trauma and its effects. Our team communicates on your terms—phone, email, or in-person. We maintain strict confidentiality, never judge, and only advocate.

    Maximum Compensation for Survivors

    We investigate thoroughly, identify all liable parties, and retain top experts. We’ve recovered over $5 billion for our clients across all case types. Our results speak for themselves.

    No Upfront Costs – We Only Get Paid When You Do

    Your case evaluation is free. We work on contingency, meaning you pay nothing unless we win. We cover all case costs during litigation.

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      Frequently Asked Questions

      What is the difference between assault and battery in Missouri?

      In Missouri, assault is the threat or attempt to cause harm, creating reasonable fear of imminent injury. Battery is the actual harmful or offensive physical contact. Often charged together, assault involves the intent and attempt, while battery requires actual physical contact. Both can support civil lawsuits for damages.

      How long do I have to file a lawsuit for sexual assault in Missouri?

      Adult assault and battery claims generally must be filed within two years under RSMo §516.140. Negligence claims have five years under RSMo §516.120(4). Childhood sexual abuse claims against perpetrators may have extended deadlines under RSMo §537.046, while institutional claims follow different rules. Consult an attorney immediately to determine your specific deadline.

      Can I sue if criminal charges weren't filed or the perpetrator was found not guilty?

      Yes. Civil lawsuits are completely independent from criminal cases. You can file a civil lawsuit even if prosecutors declined to file charges or if the defendant was acquitted. Civil cases use a lower burden of proof (“more likely than not”) than criminal cases (“beyond reasonable doubt”).

      What is third-party liability in assault cases?

      Third-party liability holds businesses, property owners, or institutions accountable when their negligence enabled an assault. This includes inadequate security, failure to conduct background checks, ignoring warning signs, or failing to protect people under their care. Third parties often have more resources and insurance than individual perpetrators.

      How much is my assault case worth?

      Case values vary widely based on injury severity, psychological trauma, lost wages, medical expenses, defendant’s conduct, and available insurance. Cases can range from tens of thousands to millions of dollars. OnderLaw evaluates each case individually to maximize recovery.

       

      What is the statute of limitations for child sexual abuse in Missouri?

      Missouri law provides extended time for childhood sexual abuse survivors. The standard statute of limitations is tolled until the victim turns 21. Under RSMo §537.046, claims against perpetrators may be filed until age 31 or within three years of discovering the harm. Claims against institutions follow different rules and must be evaluated separately.

      Do I have to testify in court for my assault case?

      Most cases settle without trial, meaning no courtroom testimony is required. If your case goes to trial, your testimony may be necessary, but OnderLaw thoroughly prepares clients for this process. Courts can accommodate special circumstances to minimize stress.

      What is negligent security?

      Negligent security occurs when property owners fail to implement reasonable safety measures to protect visitors from foreseeable criminal acts. This includes inadequate lighting, broken locks, lack of security cameras or personnel, and failure to address known dangers. Under Missouri law, foreseeability of the specific type of harm is required to establish the property owner’s duty.

      Can I remain anonymous in a sexual assault lawsuit?

      Missouri courts often allow sexual assault survivors to file lawsuits under pseudonyms like “Jane Doe” or using initials only. Your attorney can file a motion for protective order to keep your identity confidential. OnderLaw prioritizes client privacy throughout proceedings.

      What is the difference between civil and criminal assault cases?

      Criminal cases are prosecuted by the government to punish offenders through jail time and fines. Civil cases are filed by survivors to obtain financial compensation. Civil cases have a lower burden of proof and give survivors control over the case, unlike criminal prosecutions where the victim has no control over whether charges are filed.

      Do I need a lawyer to file an assault case?

      While not legally required, having an experienced attorney is crucial for navigating complex procedures, building strong evidence, negotiating with defendants, and maximizing compensation. OnderLaw offers free consultations and works on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win.