Just recently, disturbing news has emerged from the Chicago suburbs involving a local chiropractor, Murtaza Hameed, who has been charged with multiple counts of sexually abusing young boys. The case has sent shockwaves through the community and highlights the long-term physical, emotional, and psychological harm that sexual abuse can cause, particularly when the victims are minors.
For families grappling with this traumatic reality, the path forward can seem uncertain. But one thing is clear -- that those who have been harmed deserve justice. At Sexner Injury Lawyers LLC, our compassionate attorneys have decades of experience representing victims of sexual abuse and helping them obtain the justice, financial compensation and necessary help that they rightfully deserve.
What Are the Sexual Abuse Allegations Against this Chiropractor?
Murtaza Hameed, a licensed chiropractor operating in Aurora, is facing serious criminal charges stemming from allegations that he sexually abused at least two boys under the age of 13. According to publicly released documents and statements from prosecutors, the alleged abuse took place in DuPage County and spanned multiple incidents. Authorities believe the abuse may have occurred both at his place of business and elsewhere.
Police began investigating Hameed after one child bravely came forward. During the course of the investigation, additional victims were identified, and the charges have expanded to include multiple counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse and criminal sexual assault of a child—both extremely serious felonies under Illinois law.
As is often the case in child molestation matters, the investigation remains open, and authorities are encouraging additional victims or witnesses to come forward. Given the nature of the allegations and the fact that Hameed had access to children during many years of his professional practice, there is concern that there may be more victims who have not yet been identified.
How Does Sexual Molestation Affect Children?
The psychological toll of sexual molestation on children cannot be overstated. Victims often suffer not just physical trauma, but emotional and cognitive disruptions that can last a lifetime. Common psychological consequences include:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Depression and Anxiety
- Trust Issues and Social Withdrawal
- Difficulty Forming Relationships
- Nightmares and Sleep Disorders
- Self-Harm and Suicidal Thoughts
In addition to these psychological effects, many survivors struggle academically, professionally, and socially for years. Tragically, victims of childhood sexual abuse are at significantly higher risk of substance abuse and mental health disorders later in life.
Early intervention—both therapeutic and legal—is crucial. Not only can timely support promote healing, but it can also ensure that those responsible are held legally accountable.
How Can an Experienced Sexual Abuse Law Firm Help?
When dealing with the aftermath of childhood sexual abuse, having the right legal representation can make all the difference. An experienced sexual abuse law firm like Sexner Injury Lawyers LLC brings:
- Legal Experience: Our team understands the intricacies of civil litigation against perpetrators and institutions that failed to protect children.
- Access to Expert Witnesses: Medical experts, psychologists, and forensic investigators can provide key testimony to support a survivor's claim.
- Resources for Independent Investigations: Sometimes the truth lies beyond what criminal prosecutors uncover. We dig deeper to discover patterns of abuse or institutional negligence.
- Compassionate Legal Support: We prioritize the emotional well-being of victims and work hard to make the legal process as safe and empowering as possible.
Importantly, filing a civil lawsuit is often the only way that victims can obtain financial compensation for their suffering. While criminal charges may result in jail time for the abuser, they do not provide monetary relief to victims. That’s where our firm steps in.
Why is it Important to Contact a Knowledgeable Attorney Quickly?
Time is of the essence in sexual abuse cases. The sooner an experienced attorney is brought into the process, the more effective the case-building strategy can be. Some of the most important reasons to act promptly include:
- Preserving Evidence: Over time, critical evidence such as surveillance footage, emails, texts, and other digital communications may be lost or deleted. Early legal intervention can lead to emergency motions to preserve such data.
- Interviewing Witnesses Early: Witnesses' memories fade, and unfortunately, they can also be influenced by outside parties. Securing their untainted testimony early can dramatically strengthen a case.
- Meeting Legal Deadlines: Illinois law imposes statutes of limitations on certain types of cases determining filing deadlines for lawsuits. While deadlines are different for minors, it’s crucial to begin the process promptly.
- Preventing Retaliation: Early legal intervention can also protect victims and families from intimidation, retaliation, or attempts to cover up the abuse.
By contacting a very experienced law firm like Sexner Injury Lawyers LLC without delay, victims can preserve their legal rights and begin the process of healing and justice.
What Types of Financial Compensation Are Available for Victims of Sexual Abuse?
Sexual abuse can leave lifelong scars. While no amount of money can undo the trauma, financial compensation can help victims and families access crucial resources, cover expenses, and receive acknowledgment for their pain. In Illinois, victims of sexual abuse may be entitled to seek:
- Medical and Psychological Treatment Costs
- Costs for Long-Term Therapy or Counseling
- Lost Wages or Future Earnings
- Pain and Suffering Damages
- Punitive Damages Against the Abuser
- Damages for Emotional Distress
- Compensation for Loss of Normal Life
In some cases, if the abuse occurred within an institution—such as a clinic, school, or sports program—there may be claims against that organization for negligent hiring, supervision, or failure to act on known dangers as well. Medical groups who employ doctors or chiropractors can also be sued as well.
Our firm works with economic experts and trauma specialists to quantify the true extent of a victim’s damages—ensuring the court or opposing party understands the full picture of loss and suffering.
Sexner Injury Lawyers LLC Represents Sexual Abuse Victims and Wins
Since 1990, Sexner Injury Lawyers LLC has represented victims in sensitive, complex, and high-stakes personal injury and sexual abuse matters. We understand that coming forward is difficult, and we work hard to make the process supportive and survivor-focused.
For example, our legal team recently achieved a $4,000,000 sexual abuse settlement for one of deserving clients—a victory that speaks to our relentless advocacy and our ability to obtain meaningful justice. Details of that case and our legal philosophy can be found here.
Whether the abuse occurred in a medical office, place of employment, school, nursing home, religious institution, juvenile facility, while in DCFS custody or other professional setting, we have the skills and experience to hold the responsible parties fully accountable.
Does Sexner & Associates LLC Charge a Fee?
We believe that every victim deserves a chance at justice—regardless of their ability to pay for legal representation upfront. That’s why our firm works on a contingency fee basis.
What does that mean?
- No upfront fees
- No hourly billing
- We only get paid if we win your case
If we are successful in securing a settlement or verdict for you, a percentage of that recovery is used to pay attorney fees and case costs. If we are not successful, you owe us nothing.
This approach ensures that every survivor, no matter their financial situation, can access top-tier legal support without taking on additional risk or stress.
Contact Our Legal Team Today
If you or someone you love has been the victim of sexual abuse—whether by Murtaza Hameed or anyone else—please know that you are not alone. At Sexner Injury Lawyers LLC, we are here to support you every step of the way.
Our compassionate, experienced legal team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at (312) 243-9922. We understand the sensitivity of these cases, and all consultations are 100% free and confidential.
We take pride in helping survivors regain control of their lives, obtain justice, and receive the compensation they deserve. From the moment you contact us, we will listen, support, and discuss options.
You don’t have to go through this alone. Call us today at (312) 243-9922 for a free, no-obligation consultation.
