Are you searching for a compassionate law firm to guide you after an alleged sexual assault at a Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa in Florida?
At Horowitz Law, we understand how scary and confusing this time can be. Our dedicated attorneys have spent years fighting for the rights of survivors. We know you may feel hurt, alone, and unsure of what to do next. We want you to know that we believe you, and we want to help you seek justice.
We want to assure you that we treat everyone with respect and care. If you have gone through a traumatic experience, we are here to support you. We handle cases involving sexual assault and abuse, including those allegedly happening at massage spas or other wellness centers.
Why Might Someone Need a Hand and Stone Sexual Assault Lawyer?
Sexual assault can happen in many places, including a massage studio.
If you believe a Hand and Stone employee touched you or a loved one inappropriately, you need a strong team by your side.
Our lawyers at Horowitz Law focus on sexual abuse and assault cases. We can build a strong case, gather evidence, and stand up for your rights.
Key reasons to consider a lawyer if you suspect assault:
- You deserve to know your legal rights.
- You may want help gathering evidence, such as appointment records or internal spa reports.
- You should have someone to handle communication with the spa’s legal team or insurance providers.
- You may want to seek compensation for pain and suffering.
We understand this process can feel overwhelming. That is why our lawyers handle these steps for you. We treat each client with respect and dignity, and we take your safety seriously.
Who Is Horowitz Law, and How Can We Help?
If you believe you suffered an injury at a Hand and Stone location in Florida, we can help. We handle cases involving spa franchises and massage therapists who allegedly crossed professional boundaries. Our Florida sexual assault lawyers will listen to your story and then discuss your legal options.
Under Florida law, the spa or its franchise owner might bear responsibility under certain circumstances. If they allegedly failed to train employees, did not properly investigate background checks, or did not address prior complaints, they might be liable.
Led by managing partner Adam Horowitz, our attorneys have recovered some of the largest verdicts and settlements in the nation for sexual assault survivors. We have taken on big companies, major organizations, and high-profile defendants.
Why choose us?
- We Only Handle Sexual Abuse Cases: We are not a general law firm that dabbles in many areas. Our core mission is to represent survivors of sexual assault and abuse. This focus helps us understand the unique challenges and emotions you face.
- Big Results: Our team has been part of high-value verdicts and settlements, including one of over $70 million. While every case is different, we know how to fight for maximum compensation for our clients.
- Compassionate Support: We believe survivors and treat them with respect. We understand how sensitive these cases are, and we aim to provide a safe, nonjudgmental environment.
At Horowitz Law, we offer free and confidential consultations, so you do not need to worry about initial fees to speak with us.
How Much Compensation Can I Get If I Was Sexually Assaulted at Hand and Stone?
This is a common question survivors ask: “How much is my case worth?”
The answer depends on many factors, such as the nature of the alleged assault, the impact on your emotional well-being, and the level of wrongdoing by the employer (if any). Some survivors get compensation for therapy costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Compensation can also include money for future psychological care. Our Florida sexual assault attorneys understand that healing from sexual assault can be a long process. Sometimes, the financial award includes support for ongoing counseling and mental health services. We never promise a specific result, but we promise to fight hard for an outcome that aims to help you move forward.
Where Do Alleged Hand and Stone Assaults Happen in Florida?
Florida seems to have a higher number of sexual assault allegations at massage franchises than many other states. News reports and lawsuits have come from cities such as Naples, Lake Mary, Orlando, Clermont, Boca Raton, Winter Park, and more.
Some of these alleged assaults reportedly happened during scheduled massage sessions, while others allegedly took place when the therapist was alone with the client in private rooms.
Remember, these are all claims and not proven facts until a court decides. However, if you live in Florida or visited a Florida Hand and Stone spa, you may need to know your rights.
At Horowitz Law, we represent people across the entire state of Florida. If you have any questions about your specific location, please reach out to us.
Types of Alleged Accidents or Incidents and Common Injuries
Since some survivors may be injured physically, and others may be harmed emotionally, we adapt these categories for sexual assault scenarios as well:
Types of Incidents
- Unlawful Touching or Groping: Alleged unwanted physical contact during a massage session or in a spa hallway.
- Inappropriate Exposure: Situations where a client’s body was exposed against their will or draping was not properly used.
- Sexual Battery: More serious allegations involving sexual acts without consent, sometimes leading to criminal charges.
- Employer Negligence: Cases where the spa allegedly failed to do a proper background check or ignored prior complaints about a therapist.
Types of Injuries
- Physical Trauma: Bruises, soreness, or other bodily harm from forced contact.
- Emotional Distress: Anxiety, depression, or fear stemming from an alleged assault.
- Post-Traumatic Stress: Long-term effects like PTSD, nightmares, or panic attacks.
- Reputational Harm: Feeling humiliated or worried about others finding out, causing social or work-related stress.
Remember: Each person’s experience is unique. You may have only one or all of these forms of harm. Our job is to help you identify and seek compensation for these injuries.
Is It Too Late to File a Claim?
Florida law sets deadlines, called statutes of limitations, for filing civil sexual assault claims. In many cases, adult survivors have up to two years from the date of the last alleged assault to file a lawsuit, but exceptions may apply. Statutes of limitations may change and involve complex exceptions, so consult a lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.
For minors (under age 16 at the time of the assault), there may be no time limit if certain rules apply. Laws can change, and each case can have its own unique timeframe.
We urge you to reach out quickly. Even if you are unsure about your deadline, speaking with us can help confirm whether or not your time has run out. We keep your information confidential.
Will a Criminal Case Affect My Civil Claim?
Sometimes, yes. If the police open a criminal investigation and decide to arrest the alleged offender, it might support your civil lawsuit. But even if there is no criminal charge, you may still file a civil suit. Criminal and civil cases are separate processes.
The burden of proof is different. In a criminal case, guilt must be proven “beyond a reasonable doubt.” In a civil case, you only need to show that it is “more likely than not” that the person or business is liable. Do not assume that a lack of criminal charges means you cannot seek compensation.
What If I Signed a Consent Form?
Massage spas often ask clients to sign documents explaining the treatment process. Some might include broad liability language. However, these forms typically do not protect an establishment from alleged sexual assault or wrongdoing. You cannot “consent” to illegal behavior, and a form cannot free a spa from liability if an employee crosses the line.
If you have a copy of any paperwork, bring it to us. We will examine it to see if it affects your case. Usually, these documents do not prevent you from suing over sexual misconduct.
How Does Horowitz Law Support You Emotionally?
We know legal action alone does not heal the pain of a sexual assault. Survivors often feel fear, shame, or anger.
That is why we at Horowitz Law go beyond just filing papers and going to court.
We can help connect you with mental health resources or survivor support groups. We value your emotional well-being as much as winning your case.
Throughout the process, our team will keep you updated. We promise to:
- Return your calls and emails promptly.
- Explain every step of your case in easy-to-understand language.
- Respect your privacy and handle all sensitive information with care.
We have represented hundreds of survivors across the country. Each story is important to us. You are not just another case. You are a brave individual seeking justice, and we want to do everything in our power to guide you.
How Do We Fight Insurance Companies in Sexual Assault Cases?
Insurance companies do not always show compassion for survivors. Even though sexual assault is a serious crime, the insurance companies involved (either for the spa or the therapist) might try to reduce or deny your claim.
They may say the employer is not liable. They may argue that no one at the spa “officially” knew about any wrongdoing.
Here at Horowitz Law, we know their tactics. Our Florida sexual assault lawyers have decades of experience dealing with claims adjusters.
We understand how to gather strong evidence, including:
- Appointment logs and records
- Surveillance footage (if any)
- Witness statements
- Employee background checks
- Internal policies and training manuals
We will handle the negotiation with the insurance company. We aim to reach a fair settlement that reflects the damage done to you.
If the insurance company refuses to cooperate, we do not hesitate to file a lawsuit. We will work to hold them and any potentially negligent parties responsible for their alleged failure to protect you.
What Should You Do After an Alleged Sexual Assault?
If you have gone through a traumatic event, your safety and well-being matter most. Here are some simple steps you can consider if you suspect you were assaulted at a Hand and Stone spa:
- Seek a Safe Environment: If you feel unsafe in the spa, leave right away. Go somewhere you trust, such as a friend’s house, a family member’s home, or your own residence.
- Consider Medical Care: If you are harmed, get checked by a healthcare provider. A medical exam might also help document possible injuries.
- Report to Law Enforcement (If You Feel Comfortable): You can call the police or go to a local station. Florida law enforcement should help you with basic instructions on your rights under state law.
- Write Down Everything You Remember: Memories can fade, especially after a frightening experience. Right away, jot down the date, time, location, and exactly what happened.
- Gather Receipts and Records: If you have texts, emails, or receipts showing you were at that spa, keep them. Your phone might also have notes on appointment times or communication with the spa.
- Contact Horowitz Law: We will discuss your case in a free, confidential call. You do not have to share any details until you feel ready, but talking sooner can help preserve evidence.
Following these steps might help protect your rights. But remember, you do not have to do any of this alone. Our Florida sexual assault attorneys can guide you. We encourage you to talk to someone you trust and reach out for professional help.
Ready to Talk? Contact Horowitz Law Today!
We know this may be a scary step. Our caring team is here to help you feel heard and protected. We want to hold the alleged wrongdoers accountable if the evidence supports your claim. Even if you are unsure you have a case, we invite you to call us at (954) 641-2100 or use our online form to set up a free, confidential consultation.
Remember:
- You do not pay us unless we win.
- We believe survivors.
- We will keep your information private.
- You have the right to speak up.
Call Horowitz Law today at (954) 641-2100 to find out how our lawyers may help you seek justice. We stand by your side and will fight for the best possible outcome. You deserve to be treated with dignity. You deserve answers. You deserve justice.