Seeking Justice for Survivors: Massage Envy Sexual Assault Lawsuit in Colorado

Massage Envy, a well-known chain of massage clinics, has faced numerous sexual assault allegations across the United States, including in Colorado, over the last several years. These disturbing incidents have led to multiple lawsuits and raised serious concerns about client safety and corporate accountability. If you or a loved one has experienced sexual assault at a Massage Envy location in Colorado, it's crucial to understand your rights and legal options.

Dan Lipman, Esq.
Sexual Abuse Attorney

Parker Lipman, LLP
3200 Cherry Creek South Drive Suite 520
Denver, CO 80209

Understanding Massage Envy Sexual Assault Cases - Scope of the Problem

Massage Envy, with its numerous locations across Colorado and the United States, has been at the center of a troubling pattern of sexual assault allegations. In 2017, an investigative report revealed that nearly 200 women had reported being sexually assaulted while visiting Massage Envy franchises nationwide. These incidents ranged from inappropriate touching to more severe forms of sexual abuse.

The prevalence of these cases has raised questions about Massage Envy's hiring practices, training procedures, and response to complaints. Many survivors have reported that their initial complaints were often dismissed or inadequately addressed, allowing alleged perpetrators to continue working and potentially harming other clients.

Common Forms of Sexual Assault in Massage Settings

Sexual assault in massage therapy settings can take various forms, all of which are unacceptable and illegal. Some common types of misconduct include:

• Unauthorized touching of intimate areas
• Massage therapists expose themselves to clients
• Coercing clients into unwanted sexual acts
• Inappropriate comments or sexual advances during massage sessions

It's important to note that any form of sexual contact during a massage without explicit consent is considered sexual assault. Massage therapists are professionals bound by ethical standards and legal obligations to respect their clients' boundaries and dignity.

Colorado Laws Regarding Sexual Assault

Colorado takes sexual assault cases seriously, with strict laws in place to protect victims and punish offenders. The state's statutes define sexual assault as any sexual intrusion or penetration to which the victim does not consent or is unable to consent due to incapacitation.

In cases involving massage therapists, the abuse of a position of trust can be considered an aggravating factor, potentially leading to more severe penalties for the perpetrator. Additionally, Colorado has specific laws addressing unlawful sexual contact, which can apply to inappropriate touching during massage sessions.

Statute of Limitations for Sexual Assault Cases

It's crucial for survivors to be aware of the statute of limitations for filing a sexual assault lawsuit in Colorado. As of 2024, the statute of limitations for civil cases related to sexual assault is generally six years from the date of the incident. However, there are exceptions that may extend this period, especially in cases involving minors or when the assault was only recently discovered.

Given the complexity of these laws and potential exceptions, it's advisable to consult with an experienced sexual assault attorney as soon as possible to ensure your rights are protected.

Filing a Lawsuit Against Massage Envy in Colorado - Steps to Take After an Assault

If you've experienced sexual assault at a Massage Envy location in Colorado, taking the following steps can help protect your rights and build a stronger case:

1. Seek medical attention immediately, even if there are no visible injuries.
2. Report the incident to law enforcement and Massage Envy management.
3. Document everything you can remember about the incident, including dates, times, and any witnesses.
4. Preserve any physical evidence, such as clothing worn during the assault.
5. Contact a qualified sexual assault attorney to discuss your legal options.

Legal Process Overview

Filing a lawsuit against Massage Envy for sexual assault involves several stages:

1. Initial consultation with an attorney: During this meeting, you'll discuss the details of your case and explore your legal options.
2. Investigation: Your attorney will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and review Massage Envy's policies and procedures.
3. Filing the lawsuit: If a settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will file a formal complaint in court.
4. Discovery: Both sides exchange information and evidence related to the case.
5. Negotiations or trial: Depending on the circumstances, your case may be settled through negotiations or proceed to trial.

Throughout this process, your attorney will advocate for your rights and work to secure the compensation you deserve.

Potential Compensation in Massage Envy Sexual Assault Cases

Survivors of sexual assault at Massage Envy may be eligible for various types of compensation, including:

• Medical expenses for physical injuries and psychological treatment
• Lost wages due to time off work for recovery or legal proceedings
• Pain and suffering damages for emotional trauma
• Punitive damages to punish Massage Envy for negligence or misconduct

The specific amount of compensation will depend on factors such as the severity of the assault, its long-term impact on the survivor, and the degree of negligence demonstrated by Massage Envy.

Challenges in Massage Envy Sexual Assault Cases - Corporate Response and Accountability

One of the significant challenges in Massage Envy sexual assault cases has been the company's response to allegations. Many survivors have reported that their complaints were not taken seriously or were mishandled by franchise management. This corporate culture of dismissing or downplaying sexual assault allegations has made it difficult for survivors to seek justice and prevent future incidents.

Massage Envy's franchise structure can also complicate legal proceedings, as it may not be immediately clear whether the parent company or individual franchise owners should be held liable for the assaults.

Overcoming Stigma and Victim-Blaming

Unfortunately, survivors of sexual assault often face stigma and victim-blaming attitudes when coming forward with their experiences. This can be particularly challenging in massage therapy settings, where the intimate nature of the service may lead some to question the validity of assault claims.

It's crucial for survivors to remember that sexual assault is never the victim's fault, regardless of the circumstances. Working with a compassionate and experienced sexual assault attorney can help survivors navigate these challenges and advocate for their rights effectively.

Choosing the Right Attorney for Your Case

When seeking legal representation for a Massage Envy sexual assault lawsuit in Colorado, it's essential to choose an attorney with the right experience and approach. Look for the following qualities:

• Experience handling sexual assault cases, particularly those involving massage therapy settings and Massage Envy locations
• A compassionate and supportive approach to working with survivors of sexual assault massage incidents
• A track record of success in securing compensation for clients in massage envy lawsuits and other sexual assault claims
• Familiarity with Colorado laws and local court systems, including cases involving Colorado Massage Envy franchises

Attorney Dan Lipman, Esq., of Abuse Guardian, possesses these qualities and is dedicated to helping survivors seek justice in Massage Envy sexual assault lawsuits in Colorado. He has experience with cases involving accused Massage Envy therapists and employees across multiple Massage Envy locations. Whether the incident occurred at a popular Massage Envy spa in Denver or an undisclosed Massage Envy location elsewhere in Colorado, Attorney Lipman can provide the expert legal representation needed to hold Massage Envy management accountable for sexual assault and abuse.

The Impact of Sexual Assault Lawsuits

Filing sex abuse lawsuits against Massage Envy for sexual assault can have far-reaching effects beyond individual cases. These legal actions can:

• Empower survivors by giving them a voice and a path to justice
• Hold Massage Envy accountable for inadequate safety measures and responses to complaints
• Encourage policy changes within the massage industry to better protect clients
• Raise public awareness about sexual assault in professional settings

By taking legal action, survivors not only seek justice for themselves but also contribute to broader efforts to prevent future sex assaults and improve safety standards in the massage industry.

​Answers To Our Most Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long do I have to file a sexual assault lawsuit against Massage Envy in Colorado?
   Generally, you have six years from the date of the incident to file a civil lawsuit. However, exceptions may apply, so it's best to consult an attorney as soon as possible.
2. What evidence is needed to pursue a sexual assault case against a massage therapist?
   Useful evidence can include medical records, police reports, witness statements, and any documentation of complaints made to Massage Envy management.
3. Can I file a lawsuit if the assault occurred years ago?
   Depending on the circumstances, you may still be able to file a lawsuit even if the assault occurred years ago. Consult with an attorney to understand your options based on Colorado's statute of limitations.
4. Will my identity be protected if I file a lawsuit against Massage Envy?
   Your attorney can take steps to protect your privacy, such as filing the lawsuit under a pseudonym. However, complete anonymity cannot always be guaranteed in legal proceedings.
5. How much does it cost to hire an attorney for a Massage Envy sexual assault case?
   Many attorneys, including those at Abuse Guardian, work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don't pay unless you win your case. Discuss fee structures during your initial consultation.
6. What should I do immediately after experiencing sexual assault during a massage?
   Seek medical attention, report the incident to law enforcement and Massage Envy management, and contact a sexual assault attorney as soon as possible.
7. Can I sue Massage Envy if the assault occurred at a franchised location?
   Yes, you may be able to sue both the franchise owner and the parent company, depending on the circumstances. Your attorney can help determine the appropriate parties to name in the lawsuit.
8. How long does a typical sexual assault lawsuit against Massage Envy take?
   The duration of a lawsuit can vary widely depending on the complexity of the case and whether it settles or goes to trial. Your attorney can provide a more specific timeline based on your individual circumstances.

Contact Our Legal Team - Filing A Massage Envy Sexual Assault Lawsuit in Colorado

If you or a loved one has experienced sexual assault or sexual abuse at a Massage Envy location or other massage parlors in Colorado, it's crucial to know that you have legal options and support available. Sexual misconduct allegations and cases of massage therapists sexually assaulting or sexually abusing clients during massage therapy sessions are serious matters that require experienced legal representation.

The team at Abuse Guardian, led by attorney Dan Lipman, Esq., is dedicated to helping survivors of sexual assault, sex abuse, and other forms of sexual misconduct navigate the complex legal process. We handle cases involving inappropriate touching, sexual relations, attempted rape, and other sexual abuses that may occur during massages or at spas.

Don't face this challenging situation alone. Whether you were sexually abused at Massage Envy or other massage spa chains, our sexual assault attorneys can help you pursue sexual abuse lawsuits against the perpetrators and businesses that failed to protect you. We understand the sensitive nature of sexual assault cases and will fight to hold those responsible accountable, whether through felony assault charges or civil action.

Contact Abuse Guardian today for a confidential consultation to discuss your case involving sexual misconduct allegations or sexual assaults by massage therapists. Let us help you on your path to healing and justice as we work to stop sexual abuse in the massage therapy industry.

Continue reading more about Hand & Stone Massage Spa sexual assault cases in Colorado.