Representing Survivors of Intimate Partner and Family Violence
Rochon Genova represents survivors of:
- Sexualized violence within relationships;
- Coercive control;
- Physical assault and sexual assault, including patterns of assault;
- Emotional and psychological abuse; and
- Abuse by spouses, partners, or family members.
Civil claims can provide compensation for the full range of harms experienced, including emotional suffering, economic loss, therapy costs, security measures, and more. These claims often run parallel to, or independent from, criminal proceedings and may involve additional privacy protections.
Our team understands that pursuing a legal claim is an intensely personal and emotionally challenging process. We work with survivors in a trauma-informed, survivor-centred way, ensuring that each client’s needs, goals, and circumstances guide every step of the process.
This includes listening without judgment, respecting each survivor’s pace and level of comfort, minimizing unnecessary retelling of traumatic events, protecting privacy and safety throughout the process, and providing clear, transparent guidance at each stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring a civil claim for abuse within a relationship or family setting?
Yes. Survivors can pursue civil claims for sexual assault, battery, harassment, breach of fiduciary duty, invasion of privacy, intentional infliction of mental suffering, and other related harms. These claims are separate from, and independent of, criminal proceedings.
What type of compensation may be available?
Compensation varies from case to case but may include general damages for emotional and psychological harm, aggravated and punitive damages, loss of income or reduced earning capacity, the cost of therapy and mental-health care, out-of-pocket expenses, and damages for reputational or relational harm.
What is the difference between criminal and civil proceedings?
Criminal proceedings are initiated by the Crown, require proof beyond a reasonable doubt, and focus on punishment and rehabilitation. Civil proceedings are initiated by the survivor, require proof on a balance of probabilities, and focus on compensation and accountability. A survivor can start a civil claim whether or not criminal charges are laid, and regardless of the outcome of a criminal trial.
Contact Rochon Genova
Call Rochon Genova at 416-363-1867 or send us an email to set up a free consultation.
