Wyoming Statutes of Limitations for Sexual Abuse

A statute of limitations (SOL) sets the amount of time a victim or prosecutor has to file a lawsuit. Typically, if you file a lawsuit after the SOL expires, your case will be dismissed. Wyoming has different criminal and civil sexual abuse statutes of limitations.

It is important to report sexual abuse as quickly as possible. Early investigation may lead to stronger evidence in your case. Additionally, the statute of limitations that applies is the one that existed at the time of the abuse.  This means that even though the SOL may have been lengthened since the incident, it typically cannot renew time-barred cases.

Civil Lawsuits for Sexual Abuse

In a civil lawsuit, a victim of sexual abuse demands compensation and damages from his or her abuser. You may be entitled to economic and non-economic damages, including compensation for your pain and suffering.

The Wyoming civil statutes of limitations vary depending upon the age of the victim. They include:

• Childhood sex abuse: either
  • Eight years from the victim’s 18th birthday, or
  • Three years from discovery.
• Adult personal injury claims: four years from the act.

If you need help calculating the SOL in your case, contact a personal injury lawyer.

If sexual abuse occurs at your workplace, you may also have a sexual harassment lawsuit under federal law. You must file a complaint (or charge) with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) within 300 days of the sexual abuse or harassment. The EEOC will investigate your claim and determine whether it will pursue a lawsuit on your behalf. If it decides not to litigate your claim, it will issue a Right to Sue letter. You must file a lawsuit within 90 days of the EEOC’s Right to Sue letter.

Criminal Cases for Sexual Abuse

Criminal cases are filed by the State of Wyoming on behalf of a victim. In order to file criminal charges, you must notify law enforcement of the sexual abuse. The authorities will investigate your claims and a prosecutor may file charges against your abuser. If a suspect is found guilty of criminal conduct, he or she may be sentenced to significant jail time and sex offender registration.

Wyoming does not have a criminal statute of limitations. In other words, prosecutors may file criminal charges against an abuser at any time. However, it is important to report sex abuse as quickly as possible. A prompt investigation may lead to a stronger case against your abuser.

Other Compensation for Sex Abuse Victims

You may also apply for assistance from Wyoming’s Crime Victims Compensation Fund. Victims’ compensation payments help pay your crime-related medical treatment, lost wages, and other expenses. To receive victims’ compensation, victims must apply for benefits within one year of the act.

Do I Need a Lawyer?

It may be in your best interest to contact a lawyer. Sexual assault and abuse claims are emotionally difficult. They also involve detailed legal analysis and strict procedural rules. A personal injury lawyer can guide you through the process, educate you about your rights, and offer much-needed emotional support. You should also file criminal charges with a law enforcement agency.

If you are facing sexual abuse charges and prosecution, a criminal defense lawyer can help you understand your rights. Time is of the essence, so talk to an attorney as soon as possible.