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Suing a Doctor or Lawyer in Illinois After Consensual Sex
We are experienced Illinois attorneys who will talk to you for free and in confidence. We have helped hundreds of victims of sexual abuse and misconduct. Contact us at 312-346-5320 to speak with an attorney.
Since 2001, we have been helping individuals who were victims of sexual abuse in Illinois. Most of those cases involved clear instances of non-consensual acts, such as assault or rape. That is what the public generally thinks of when they hear sexual assault. However, it’s important to know that even when sexual activity appears consensual, it can still lead to a valid legal claim—especially when it involves a licensed professional like a doctor or attorney.
In Illinois, doctors and lawyers are held to high professional and ethical standards. These standards prohibit romantic or sexual relationships with current patients or clients due to the imbalance of power. Even if a relationship seems mutual, it may be legally and ethically inappropriate.
When an attorney or physician initiates or engages in a sexual relationship with someone they are currently representing or treating, that conduct is a breach of professional responsibility. In some cases, it may also rise to the level of malpractice or sexual exploitation under Illinois law. Simply put, your lawyer shouldn’t date you or have a sexual relationship with you. Nor should your doctor, especially if they are a mental health provider.
The critical issue in these situations is the power dynamic. A doctor or lawyer occupies a position of trust and authority, which can influence the other party’s ability to provide meaningful consent.
For example, a criminal defense attorney who becomes romantically involved with a client may create the impression (intentional or not) that their work or professional service is tied to the continuation of the relationship. A psychologist or other mental health professional who engages in a sexual relationship with a patient exploits the emotional vulnerability that naturally arises in therapy. Even medical specialists such as plastic surgeons or OBGYNs have been held liable in cases involving inappropriate relationships with patients under their care.
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The Illinois Rules of Professional Conduct and medical licensing regulations make it clear: professionals must maintain appropriate boundaries with clients and patients. If you were involved in a sexual relationship with your doctor or attorney or other professional while they were actively treating or representing you, you may have grounds for a lawsuit, even if the relationship appeared consensual at the time.
We understand that these situations can be emotionally complex and deeply personal. If you believe you were manipulated, exploited, or harmed by a professional you trusted, contact us to speak with an experienced attorney about your options. All of these cases are handled on a contingency basis which means there is no fee unless you make a recovery. And we promise to treat you like a family member or friend and keep everything we discuss confidential.