Experienced Sexual Assault And Abuse Attorney In Iowa

No one chooses to become a victim of sexual abuse or assault. These violations of trust can leave you feeling isolated, afraid and unsure of what steps to take next. Iowa law takes sexual abuse seriously. But until then, understanding your rights and options often requires guidance that goes beyond what you can read online.

Roxanne Conlin & Associates, P.C., understands that turning legal rights into real protection and fair compensation requires someone willing to fight for you. Based in Des Moines, we stand up for survivors across Iowa. With attorney Roxanne’s 57 years of fighting for justice, starting with the first-ever trial under the Iowa Civil Rights Act, our firm brings a deep commitment to helping you.

What Sexual Abuse And Assault Mean Under Iowa Law

Sexual abuse and assault in Iowa means acts that violate your safety and dignity, as laid out in Iowa Code Chapter 709. This covers any sex act done without your clear consent, whether through force, threats or taking advantage of your vulnerability.

Iowa’s legal system spells out what counts as sexual abuse to help ensure wrongdoers face consequences. These definitions guide your options for seeking justice. Below is what the law covers:

• Rape involving force or weapons is classified as first or second degree sexual abuse.
• Unwanted sexual touching or groping is often third-degree sexual abuse.
• Any sex act with a child under 16 is treated as child sexual abuse with severe penalties.
• Sexual harassment that becomes physical or coercive, like in a job or school.
• Exploitation by someone in power, such as a doctor or pastor, abusing their role.

These violations can occur in the following places you thought were safe:

• Schools where a teacher oversteps
• Churches with trusted leaders who betray
• Workplaces where harassment festers
• Homes where family or friends cross lines

The people responsible might be strangers, but more often, they are someone you know, a relative, coach, boss or acquaintance. This betrayal makes the damage even deeper, but it does not take away your right to seek justice.

What Are The Rights Of Survivors In Iowa

You have the right to:

• Report the abuse to law enforcement to start a criminal case.
• Seek a protective order to keep the abuser away from you.
• File a civil lawsuit to cover damages like therapy costs or lost wages.
• Keep your identity private in many cases to shield your personal life.

One of the most pressing concerns survivors face is time. Iowa has specific statutes of limitations that set deadlines for filing claims:

• Criminal cases: For the most serious forms of sexual abuse, such as first-degree sexual abuse, there is no statute of limitations; prosecutors can file charges at any time. In other cases, the deadline often depends on the victim’s age and the circumstances. For example, if the victim was a child, charges may be filed up until the survivor turns 33 years old (or within 10 years of the abuse, whichever is later).
• Civil lawsuits: Survivors generally have 10 years from the date of the abuse to file a claim. If the abuse happened when the victim was a minor, the law allows filing up to four years after turning 18. With Iowa’s  “delayed discovery” rule, you may still be able to file if you only realized later in life that your injuries were caused by the abuse.

These deadlines are complicated, and missing one could mean losing your chance to hold an abuser accountable.

Why Our Des Moines Legal Guidance Matters In These Cases

It can be tempting to believe that reporting to the police or sharing your story is enough, but the legal system does not always move in ways that feel fair or supportive.

Upon taking your case, our experienced lawyer can help you:

• Protect your rights during every stage of the process
• Keep your story confidential where the law allows
• Pursue financial compensation for medical care, counseling, lost income and emotional suffering
• Hold both individuals and institutions accountable when they allow abuse to happen

The legal system can give survivors more than monetary relief; it can offer validation and change. Many cases also help prevent future harm by forcing organizations to address systemic failures. Our attorney, Roxanne Conlin, has built her entire career on helping ensure those who abused their power answer for the pain they have caused.

Calling Us Is The Ultimate Next Step To Take Toward Justice

If you or someone you love has experienced sexual abuse or assault in Iowa, now is the time to take action. For more information, call Roxanne Conlin & Associates, P.C., via 515-283-1111 as soon as possible.

You can also take advantage of our free initial consultation to discuss your case and allow our experienced team to advocate for your rights in the best possible way.