Sexual Assault & Abuse

Survivors of sexual violence have the ability to pursue personal injury claims against their perpetrators, as well as against the companies or other organizations that empowered the perpetrator. The attorneys at Meehan, Boyle, Black & Bogdanow are skilled and experienced in representing clients who have suffered significant trauma, and in holding perpetrators and any enabling companies or organizations accountable for their actions. MBBB attorneys have handled cases involving:

Negligent hotel security
Sexual abuse in the workplace
Drivers of rideshare companies such as Uber and Lyft that sexually assaulted their passengers
Sexual abuse in schools, such as by teachers, administrators, or other students
Religious institutions and other social organizations or clubs whose leaders sexually abused members
Physicians or other medical professionals sexually assaulting patients

Significant Cases

Uber Driver Sexual Assault of Passenger

Substantial settlement obtained on behalf of a young woman who was sexually assaulted by her Uber driver who subsequently fled the country. First case in MA in which a court indicated that Uber may be considered a common carrier, thereby imposing a higher duty on the rideshare company, and opening it up to liability for the intentional torts of its drivers.

Employee Sexually Assaulted on Work Trip

$975,000 settlement achieved for an employee who was a victim of a sexual assault while attending a conference for the benefit of her employer. The victim’s employer had failed to secure worker’s compensation benefits for their employees as required by law.

Assault & False Imprisonment

$2.5 million judgment obtained for a woman that was physically assaulted and held captive by her partner.

Over half of women, and almost 1 in 3 men, have experienced sexual violence involving physical contact during their lifetimes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is sexual abuse?

Sexual abuse generally refers to the sexual exploitation or mistreatment of a minor, though it can also apply to vulnerable adults. It refers to a wide range of actions, including:

Any sexual activity, including fondling, touching, or penetration
Exposure to sexual content or activities, such as pornography or exhibitionism
Exploitation for the production of pornographic materials
Engaging in sexual grooming behaviors

Sexual abuse is considered a form of child abuse and is illegal in all states. In addition to civil liability, discussed further below, it is a criminal offense that can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment and registration as a sex offender.

What is sexual assault?

Sexual assault, on the other hand, typically refers to non-consensual sexual acts committed against an adult. It encompasses a range of behaviors, including:

Rape (oral, anal, or vaginal penetration without consent)
Fondling or unwanted sexual touching
Forcing a victim to perform sexual acts

The key element in sexual assault is the lack of consent from the victim. Consent cannot be given if the victim is incapacitated, unconscious, or coerced through force, threats, or intimidation. Sexual assault is a criminal offense that can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment, fines, and registration as a sex offender. It can also form the basis for civil lawsuits against the perpetrator for damages.

How can I report sexual abuse or assault?

If you are in immediate danger, call 911 to summon the emergency services. In non-emergency situations, sexual abuse or assault should still be reported promptly to preserve evidence, protect your rights, and hold your abuser accountable. Contact your local police department as soon as possible to report any abuse or assault. You can also go to an emergency room or other healthcare provider for medical attention and tell them you want to report a crime.

At any time, you can contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or online for advice or to report sexual abuse or assault.

What are my legal rights as a victim of sexual abuse or assault?

As a victim of sexual abuse or assault, you have the right to file a criminal complaint against the perpetrator, seek protection through restraining orders, and hold them criminally responsible. You also have the right to pursue a civil lawsuit to seek compensation for damages such as medical expenses, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life. A lawyer with experience handling sexual assault and sexual abuse cases can advise you on your rights and your options.

Can I sue my sexual abuser for damages?

Yes, in many circumstances sexual abuse and assault victims can file a civil lawsuit against their abuser to recover damages for physical injuries, emotional trauma, and other damages suffered as a consequence of the abuse. This civil lawsuit is separate from any criminal proceedings brought against the perpetrator. A personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and guide you through the legal process of a civil suit against the offender.

Can a business or organization be held responsible for sexual abuse or assault?

Yes, in some circumstances, businesses, organizations, and other institutions can be held responsible for sexual abuse or assault committed by their employees or within their premises. For instance, if they negligently failed to implement adequate safety measures, ignored warning signs, or were negligent in hiring or supervising staff, their negligence may have facilitated or contributed to the assault. In such circumstances, victims may file a civil lawsuit against the business or organization for compensation related to the abuse or assault. It is crucial to consult with a legal professional to understand the specifics of your case and your available legal remedies. Sexual abuse or assault claims against organizations are complex cases that require experienced advocates with an in-depth knowledge of the law in this area.

If I sue my abuser, do I have to go to court?

If you sue your abuser, the case may go to trial, and you may have to appear in court. However, many of the cases that we handle are resolved through settlements outside of court, where you agree to a resolution without a trial. Our attorneys will help you understand your options and negotiate on your behalf to get the best outcome for your specific situation. We keep you informed throughout the process, and it is always your decision to decide whether or not to settle the case or proceed to trial. If the case does go to trial, our attorneys will be with you every step of the way.

Will my privacy be protected in a sexual assault or abuse claim?

When pursuing a civil claim for sexual assault or abuse, there are strong legal protections in place to safeguard your privacy and confidentiality. Survivors have the option to file claims anonymously using a pseudonym, request that case documents and evidence be sealed from public access, and have measures taken to restrict attendance and recording during proceedings. Additionally, many states have laws prohibiting the publication of sexual assault victims' identities and offer address confidentiality programs. While some personal information may need to be disclosed, experienced attorneys, like the team at Meehan, Boyle, Black & Bogdanow, can guide you through the process to ensure your privacy rights are vigorously protected to the fullest extent possible under the law.

What is the statute of limitations for a sexual abuse or assault claim?

The statute of limitations is a deadline for filing a legal claim. After the statute of limitations period has passed, you may not be able to bring a lawsuit against your abuser. For sexual abuse and sexual assault claims, the statute of limitations can be extended in some cases. It is important to get reliable legal advice to ensure that you understand your rights and do not lose your ability to bring a civil claim against your abuser. In Massachusetts, the statute of limitations for filing a sexual abuse claim is generally 3 years from the date of the incident or the discovery of the harm caused by the abuse. For minors, the window is generally 35 years from when the victim turns 18 or 7 years after the victim discovered or reasonably should have discovered that they were harmed by the assault/abuse.

What should I do if I am a victim of sexual assault or abuse?

If you are a victim of sexual assault or abuse, there are certain key steps you should take:

Seek medical attention immediately. Go to the nearest hospital or clinic for treatment and evidence collection through a forensic exam/rape kit. If you are in danger or unable to get help, call 911, and the emergency services will come to you.
Report the abuse to law enforcement: Report the incident to the police, and, if relevant, campus authorities, as soon as possible to initiate an investigation.
Reach out for support: Contact a trusted friend or family member, or a local sexual assault service provider or hotline for counseling and advocacy.
Call an attorney: Consult with an experienced sexual abuse/assault attorney to understand your rights and options for pursuing a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator.

Remember, the trauma you experienced is not your fault. Seeking medical care, reporting the crime, and accessing support services are crucial steps to prioritize your safety, well-being, and legal rights as a survivor.

Does it matter when I report a sexual assault?

Reporting a sexual assault promptly is crucial for preserving crucial evidence, accessing support resources, and keeping legal options open within the statute of limitations timeframe. While the decision to report is deeply personal, doing so as soon as possible allows for the collection of forensic evidence through a medical exam, initiates the criminal investigation process, and allows you to connect with vital counseling and advocacy services. Even if time has passed since your abuse, reporting it can still provide access to support and, in some cases, legal recourse depending on state laws. Regardless of when the assault occurred, victims of sexual abuse are entitled to empathy, respect, and the opportunity to seek justice on their own terms with the guidance of professionals.

How can a personal injury lawyer help me in a sexual abuse or assault case?

An experienced personal injury lawyer like the team at Meehan, Boyle, Black & Bogdanow can help you navigate the legal system, gather evidence, represent your interests in court, and negotiate compensation for the harm that you have suffered. We will communicate with the offender’s lawyers and other parties in the claim so that you can focus on your recovery. We will advocate for you and work diligently to achieve justice and compensation for your suffering.

What compensation can I receive in a sexual abuse or assault lawsuit?

If you file a sexual abuse or assault lawsuit, you may be able to receive compensatory damages to cover your economic losses like medical bills, therapy costs, and lost income, as well as non-economic damages for your pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. The specific types and amounts of compensation will depend on many factors, including the impact the abuse/assault has had on your life, and the laws in your state. However, successful lawsuits can result in substantial financial awards to help you rebuild your life and obtain justice for the trauma you have experienced.

Who should I speak to at Meehan, Boyle, Black & Bogdanow if I have been sexually assaulted or abused?

If you have been sexually assaulted or abused and are seeking legal assistance, our dedicated personal injury lawyers at Meehan, Boyle, Black & Bogdanow can help. We have extensive experience handling sexual assault and abuse cases with the utmost care and confidentiality. When you contact us, we will schedule a free, confidential consultation with an attorney so you can discuss your case and decide on your next steps. Contact us online or by calling 617-523-8300 to get the compassionate and comprehensive legal support that you deserve.

Client Testimonials

I can't thank Meehan, Boyle, Black, and Bogdanow law firm enough for everything they did for my family during a really tough time. After a horrific auto accident that left our daughter with permanent physical and emotional damages, MBBB was there for us every step of the way. Not only did they offer expert legal advice, but they also showed genuine care and understanding. They made sure we were always informed, patiently answering all our questions and guiding us through the process, which made such a challenging situation so much easier to handle.

If you’re looking for a law firm that combines professionalism with true compassion, I highly recommend MBBB. Our amazing team—led by the incredible Jennifer, with exceptional support from Catherine and the expertise of Leo—really went above and beyond. We’re so grateful for everything they did for us.

I had a such a pleasant experience working with my attorney, Peter Ainsworth, and his paralegal Barbara. They are reliable, trustworthy, loving, and so caring. If you are looking for an attorney that cares about you, this is the place to go!!!! — Gabriela R.

Attorney Jeremy and Barbara from his team have been so amazing to me and my family. We had a family death and Jeremy has been so professional, so patient, and so thorough every single step of the way. It has been truly one of the toughest years of our lives so far. Having Jeremy and his team's support during the whole process with court, etc. has been SO helpful. Also, what made it special is I didn't feel like I was JUST ANOTHER person, he really cares and really wanted the best for us — he knew what we were going through. THIS IS what you need on your side when you need a lawyer. Absolutely recommend him! — F.J.

My wife and I were in an accident while riding our motorcycle. The accident was clearly the fault of the other operator. We had never hired a lawyer to represent us in a civil action before, and I wasn't even sure we needed one. But the other party's insurance company was being unreasonable, so we decided to hire a lawyer. We have a friend that works at MBBB, and they gave us a strong recommendation, so we had an initial discussion to learn the process. MBBB put Jeremy Carroll and Catherine Croteau on our case, and we could not have been happier with the process and the way things turned out. In addition to being experts at their jobs, both Jeremy and Catherine are kind, empathetic people who held our hands throughout the process. As a settlement was being negotiated and we became impatient, Jeremy talked us off the ledge a few times and asked us to trust in his experience. I'm glad we did, because I believe he maximized our settlement. In addition to being great at what they do and being extremely professional, Jeremy and Catherine are super nice people. I hope we never need it, but if we ever need representation again, we will be calling them!

I had a very positive experience while working with Jeremy Carroll, Peter Ainsworth, and Nora Carroll at Meehan, Boyle, Black and Bogdanow law firm. All three of them treated me with respect and dignity every time we spoke on the phone or had a zoom call and I was always kept abreast with emails. I never needed to speak to any insurance company; it was all taken care of. I was never rushed nor swayed, the decision was always mine to make and my opinion was continually asked. Every aspect was handled with professionalism. I highly recommend this law office to represent you for all of your personal injuries! — Sara W.

I was in a car accident where I had sustained physical damage to both myself and my vehicle. Meehan, Boyle, Black & Bogdanow law firm was fantastic in helping navigate compensation for the damages I sustained. The law firm did a great job communicating with me throughout the entire process and was able to negotiate the best result financially. I would highly recommend this law firm to represent you. — Todd D.

Jenn and Catherine are two of the best at their job. Three words I would use to describe them are honorable, empathetic, and unwavering. The transparency of communication with them was unparalleled, and any single question I had was answered thoroughly and understandable. I would recommend the professionalism of Meehan, Boyle, Black & Bogdanow, P.C to anyone who finds themselves seeking justice in an unfortunate situation. After interviewing multiple law firms in the Boston area, I found that most firms just look at you as numbers on a spreadsheet. They lack humility, and don't realize that you are suffering in real time, not just on paper. This firm is the polar opposite, in that it is made of real people, with real understanding of what you are going through, and will do what it takes to make you feel some sense of closure. Thank you Jenn. Thank you Catherine. Thank you Meehan, Boyle et al. — Alex C.

Great Law Firm. Their paralegal, Nora, is so professional and very accurate, and gets back to you regarding any questions that you may have. Also, one of the attorneys, Peter, is nothing but professional and again is willing to answer any questions that you may have regarding any legal matters. THIS IS A 5 STAR FIRM AND ALL EMPLOYEES ARE VERY COMPETENT. KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK!!! — Christine S.

I recently had the opportunity to work with Meehan, Boyle, Black & Bogdanow, PC, and I must say it was a wonderful experience. From the moment I reached out to them, they were attentive, understanding, and empathetic. Dealing with a personal injury can be stressful and overwhelming. They took the time to listen to my concerns and thoroughly explain the legal process. I would highly recommend them. — Lisa M.

Jeremy Carroll took on our case for a car accident. Barbara and him were wonderful. Very attentive and professional every step of the way. I would highly recommend his services anytime! — Heatherly D.

Leo Boyle and John Carroll were tireless advocates for my family and I in the wake of a devastating severe traumatic brain injury I suffered in 2009. In the months and years after my injury, while the case was pending and long after, Leo and John took a personal interest in our case, continuously advocating for our safety and mental health. They displayed great intellect, as well as dedication and patience, in developing a compelling case and securing a much-needed settlement from the defendants. While it did not reverse the harm done, it provided us with the support, closure, and financial freedom we needed to move forward. — Leslie B.

Working with Jeremy Carroll has been a great experience in managing my auto accident case. He listens, he is knowledgeable, experienced, and personable. He was able to achieve and negotiate a fair settlement. I would absolutely recommend hiring Jeremy! — Elisabeth W.

For years I was dealing with a severe personal injury case. After being represented by four different attorneys, I finally found Meehan, Boyle, Black, and Bogdanow. I interviewed several so-called top firms and spoke to the big largest firms. Unfortunately, none of them understood the case's complexity or had a strategy to navigate successfully. I first spoke to Peter Ainsworth. He listened and showed genuine compassion and care for my situation. Peter then introduced me to the All-Star team of Jeremy Carroll and, Jennifer Denker, Nora Carroll, and then the real work began. Nora Carroll, a superstar who catalogued volumes of evidence from my previous attorneys, and coordinated obtaining additional information in an extensive medical file. Jeremy Carroll was the lead on my case and primary contact. He was invested, knowledgeable, analytical, and extraordinarily thorough. From the review stage to strategy and execution, he was exemplary. With compassion and intensity, this team of true professionals pursued my best interest. Then, when I didn't think it could get better, they added the experience and long-held wisdom of Leo Boyle. Being represented by Meehan, Boyle, Black, and Bogdanow meant the biggest disaster that happened in my life was finally resolved. I am extremely pleased with the negotiated settlement. Their efforts will make a big difference in being able to care for myself and my family. — Tyioun K.