South Carolina Sexual Assault Lawyer:

Seeking Justice and Accountability

Your Voice Matters in the Path to Healing

Sexual assault is a profound violation of power and control that leaves lasting emotional and physical scars. While the criminal justice system focuses on punishing the offender, it often leaves the survivor’s personal needs for recovery and financial stability unaddressed.

At The Law Offices of David L. Hood, we provide a safe, confidential space for survivors to explore their legal options. We believe that justice includes holding every responsible party accountable (not just the individual attacker, but also the institutions that allowed the abuse to occur). With over 30 years of experience, attorney David L. Hood and his co-counsel legal team offer compassionate advocacy to help you reclaim your agency and secure the resources needed for long term healing.

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Civil Lawsuits vs. Criminal Cases

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It is important to understand that a civil lawsuit is entirely separate from a criminal prosecution. You can pursue a civil claim even if:

The police did not make an arrest.
The prosecutor declined to file charges.
The defendant was found "not guilty" in criminal court.
In a civil case, the burden of proof is lower than in a criminal trial. Our goal is to prove that it is "more likely than not" that the assault occurred and that the defendant (or a negligent third party) is liable for your damages.
Who

Can Be Held Responsible?

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Under South Carolina law, liability often extends beyond the perpetrator. We investigate whether systemic negligence created the opportunity for the assault. Potential defendants include:

Employers and Businesses:
If a company failed to perform a background check on a dangerous employee or ignored previous reports of misconduct.
Schools and Universities:
Under Title IX or general negligence theories, if an institution failed to protect a student or staff member.
Property Owners and Landlords:
For "negligent security," such as broken locks, unlit stairwells, or lack of cameras in areas where they knew risks existed.
Hospitals and Care Facilities:
If a patient was victimized due to a lack of supervision or improper staffing protocols.
Religious Organizations:
If leadership protected an abuser rather than the victims.
Types of

Compensation for Survivors

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Financial recovery in a sexual assault case is designed to address both tangible and intangible losses. Compensation may include:

Mental Health Treatment:
Coverage for specialized trauma therapy, counseling, and psychiatric care.
Medical Expenses:
Costs for immediate exams, forensic testing, and ongoing physical health needs.
Lost Wages:
Compensation for time taken off work due to physical injury or emotional trauma.
Pain and Suffering:
Legal recognition of the profound anxiety, depression, and PTSD caused by the assault.
Punitive Damages:
Extra awards meant specifically to punish the wrongdoer and deter others from similar conduct.
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Your Privacy is Our Priority

We understand that the fear of public exposure prevents many survivors from seeking help. When you work with our firm, we take every possible step to protect your identity:

1
Confidential Consultations:
Your initial conversation with us is 100% private and protected by attorney-client privilege.
2
Anonymous Filings:
In many cases, we can petition the court to allow you to proceed as a "Jane Doe" or "John Doe" to keep your name out of public records.
3
Discreet Investigation:
We handle all witness interviews and evidence gathering with the utmost sensitivity and discretion.

Statute of Limitations

The time limit to file a sexual assault lawsuit in South Carolina can vary significantly depending on the age of the victim at the time of the assault and whether the defendant is a government entity. While recent laws have extended these windows for many survivors, it is vital to speak with a lawyer as soon as you feel ready to ensure your rights are protected.

You Are Not Alone in This Fight

Choosing to take legal action is a powerful step toward holding abusers and negligent institutions accountable. From our principal office in Murrells Inlet to our 17 other locations statewide, we are ready to stand beside you with the respect and toughness your case deserves.

Contact The Law Offices of David L. Hood today or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis; you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.

The Law Offices of David L. Hood’s principal office is located in Murrells Inlet, SC and that is where Attorney Hood principally performs legal services and practices law. This website constitutes attorney advertising and is designed for general information only. The information presented in this website should not be construed to be formal legal advice or create an attorney client relationship.
© 2026 The Law Offices of David L. Hood All rights reserved.