What We Handle
Sexual Abuse
After abuse, assault, or exploitation.
What sexual abuse actually means
A sexual abuse civil case arises when someone is harmed by sexual abuse, assault, or exploitation and there may be a legal claim against the abuser, the institution that enabled it, or both. These cases are about accountability and safety.
A civil case is separate from a criminal case. Even if no charges were filed or no conviction happened, that does not automatically end the civil side.
What it takes to have a case
1. Duty
A person or institution had a duty not to abuse, exploit, ignore complaints, or fail to protect someone in their care.
2. Breach
That duty was broken through abuse itself or by failing to supervise, report, investigate, or act.
3. Causation
That misconduct caused physical, emotional, or financial harm.
4. Damages
You suffered real harm — trauma, counseling costs, lost income, medical expenses, or other losses.
What we handle within sexual abuse
Every situation is different. Here are the most common types we see.
Abuse by Trusted Adults
Teachers, clergy, coaches, care providers, supervisors, or others in positions of trust.
Institutional Failure Cases
An organization ignored warnings, covered up misconduct, or failed to protect people.
Facility and Care Cases
Abuse in nursing homes, treatment settings, schools, or youth programs.
Adult Survivor Cases
Claims brought years later after someone is ready to come forward.
Missouri vs. Kansas: the rules that matter
Kansas City straddles the state line. Which state's law applies depends on where the incident occurred.
Missouri
- •Statute of limitations varies by circumstances — consult an attorney promptly
- •Missouri has extended filing windows for childhood sexual abuse claims
- •Civil claims do not require a criminal conviction
- •Institutional liability may apply where organizations failed to protect
Kansas
- •Statute of limitations varies by circumstances — KSA § 60-523 may apply
- •Extended filing windows for childhood sexual abuse claims under Kansas law
- •Civil claims are independent of criminal proceedings
Not sure which state's rules apply? Tell us where it happened →
What an investigation looks like
Private conversation — We listen carefully and explain options.
Information review — Reports, records, witness accounts, employment or institutional files, and related documents.
Liability review — We examine both the individual conduct and any institutional failure.
Damages review — We document treatment, trauma, work impact, and other losses.
Demand or filing — We take the next step only when you understand the path.
Resolution — Settlement or litigation, depending on the case.
What it costs
Yonke Law works on a contingency basis. There is no fee unless we recover compensation for you. The percentage is agreed in writing before any work begins. Your initial consultation is always free. No hourly rates. No retainers. No surprise bills.
What a sexual abuse case is actually worth
There's no honest one-line answer. Value depends on the facts of your situation.
Economic Damages
- •Counseling and therapy costs
- •Medical treatment
- •Lost wages and career impact
- •Relocation and safety expenses
Non-Economic Damages
- •Emotional and psychological trauma
- •Pain and suffering
- •Loss of trust and personal security
- •Loss of enjoyment of life
A consultation gives you a real assessment based on your situation — not a stock answer.
Who You'll Work With
Michael T. Yonke
AV Preeminent rated. Experienced in civil claims involving institutional failure, abuse by authority figures, and survivor advocacy.
Mike founded Yonke Law in 2001 after years of seeing how large firms treated the people they were supposed to protect. Every case at Yonke Law is handled directly by Mike and his team — not passed to associates or outsourced to contract attorneys.
When it comes to sexual abuse, Mike brings decades of focused trial experience, a network of trusted medical and technical experts, and a straightforward approach: understand the facts, build the case, and prepare for trial even if the goal is settlement.
More about Mike and the team →Common questions
Do I have to go public right away?
Not necessarily. Privacy concerns can often be discussed early.
What if the abuse happened years ago?
Possibly still worth reviewing. Both Missouri and Kansas have extended filing windows for childhood sexual abuse. Time limits can be complicated and fact-specific.
Can I bring a case even if no criminal charges were filed?
Yes. Civil cases are separate from criminal proceedings. The standard of proof is different.
Printable
Personal Injury Checklist
Essential steps to protect your health, your rights, and your claim. Covers what to gather, who to contact, and the deadlines that matter for your sexual abuse case.
Download the checklist (PDF) ↓Or — Walk Through It Digitally
Start Your Case Review
Answer a few questions about your situation. Your responses are saved and become the start of your case file if you proceed.
Start the digital intake →Ready to talk about your sexual abuse case?
Free consultation. No fee unless we recover.
