Part 3: How Long do I Have to Sue Someone for Sexual Assault? For many survivors, time itself can feel like another barrier to justice. Years may pass before a survivor feels able to come forward, only to be met with the fear that it is “too late” to take legal action. This concern is understandable, especially in a legal system where most claims expire after a strict deadline. This article explains an important exception to that rule pertaining to sexual assault claims in On

Part 2: What is the Standard of Proof for Sexual Assault and Battery? This article explains how civil courts in Canada approach sexual assault and sexual battery differently. In particular, it outlines the lower standard of proof used in civil cases, how criminal convictions may be used in civil litigation, and why a lack of criminal conviction does not mean survivors are without legal options.

Part 1: The Legal Elements of Sexual Assault and Sexual Battery Sexual violence is often discussed in broad terms, but the civil legal system relies on precise legal definitions that can be difficult to understand without legal training. For survivors, that complexity can create real barriers to understanding their rights and options. This article explains how Canadian civil law defines and recognizes sexual assault and sexual battery.