If you’re a survivor of sexual assault in Texas, you have more legal power than most people realize. Beyond the criminal justice system, you have the right to file a civil lawsuit against your abuser — and in many cases, against third parties whose negligence allowed the assault to happen. You don’t need a criminal conviction to win a civil case, and the compensation you recover can help fund the long road of physical, emotional, and financial recovery.

This guide walks you through how civil sexual assault claims work in Texas, who you can sue, how long you have to file, and what to expect when you partner with a Houston attorney who handles these cases.

Civil vs. Criminal Cases — What’s the Difference?

A criminal case is filed by the state of Texas with the goal of punishing the offender. A civil case is filed by you, the survivor, with the goal of holding the offender accountable financially. The two are completely separate. Even if your abuser was never arrested, never charged, or was acquitted at trial, you can still pursue a civil claim. The burden of proof in civil court is also lower — “preponderance of the evidence” rather than “beyond a reasonable doubt” — which is why many survivors who never saw justice in criminal court win meaningful settlements in civil court.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Texas Sexual Assault Lawsuit?

The most obvious defendant is the perpetrator themselves, but Texas law also allows survivors to pursue claims against third parties whose negligence created the conditions for the assault. Common third-party defendants include hotels, apartment complexes, rideshare companies, employers, schools, and bars or nightclubs that failed to provide reasonable security. If a property owner knew or should have known about a danger and did nothing, they can share legal responsibility for what happened to you.

How Long Do You Have to File? (Texas Statute of Limitations)

For most civil sexual assault claims in Texas, the statute of limitations is five years from the date of the assault. For survivors who were minors at the time, the clock typically does not start until they turn 18, giving them until age 23 to file. Texas has also recognized exceptions in cases involving repressed memory and ongoing abuse, which is why it’s critical to speak with an attorney even if you think too much time has passed — your case may still be viable.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

A civil sexual assault claim can recover damages for medical bills (including ongoing therapy and counseling), lost wages and reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and in many Texas cases, punitive damages designed specifically to punish the offender. Settlements vary widely, but six- and seven-figure recoveries are not unusual when third-party liability is involved.

What to Expect When You Reach Out to a Houston Attorney

The first conversation is always free, completely confidential, and never obligates you to file anything. You’ll be asked to share what you’re comfortable sharing — at your pace — so we can evaluate the strength of your case, identify all potentially liable parties, and walk you through your options. We handle every assault case with absolute discretion, and our communication is structured to protect your privacy at every step.

You Are Not Alone

Filing a civil lawsuit is one of the most powerful ways a survivor can reclaim agency after assault. It tells your story on your terms, holds the right people accountable, and gives you the resources to heal. If you’re in Houston or anywhere in Texas and want to understand your options, schedule a free, confidential case review with attorney Farrah Martinez today. Your story matters — and so does your future.

Schedule a Free, Confidential Case Review