Canada’s Abuse Crisis Line for immediate help:
Available 24/7 in over 200 languages.
https://www.awhl.org
CRIMINAL CASES
In Canada there is no time limit (called a statute of limitations) on bringing criminal charges for sexual assault – meaning you can swear a criminal complaint and file charges at any point in your lifetime. However if your abuser has died, the criminal courts will not be able to proceed with charges.
(Source: https://www.legalinfo.org/legal-information-topics/sexual-abuse)
CIVIL CASES
Many provinces have eliminated limitations periods (statutes of limitation) on civil cases for sexual assault. If you need representation, be sure to contact a lawyer who specializes in sexual assault/abuse and harassment within your province or territory for information on the limitations that may or may not apply to your situation.
For resources and help regarding sexual harassment and assault, you can go to the CANADIAN WOMEN’S FOUNDATION’s website for resources and support.
For more information on civil cases, read the full interview with Vineberg: Can I sue my employer for my assault?
CANADIAN HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION
For a full list of human right’s organizations in your province or territory, please go to: https://www.chrc-ccdp.gc.ca/eng/content/provincial-territorial-human-rights-agencies
On the difference between the options:
“The criminal process is about incarceration, whereas the civil process is about compensation. The civil litigation process is a less onerous, more easily navigable, and more supportive means for accessing justice and compensation for sexual assault survivors,” says Flo Vineberg, a civil litigation lawyer specializing in sexual assault and human rights violations.
Speaking of the Human RIghts Tribunal, specifically of Ontario, Vineberg says it “can be another viable option for people who do not want to wait the significant amount of time for a lawsuit to weave its way through the litigation process, or who don’t necessarily want to go through the criminal process for any sort of reason.” However, the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario only accepts applications for one year after the last incident.
For more information on civil cases, read the full interview with Vineberg: Can I sue my employer for my assault?