Seeking medical care, especially from a specialist like an OB-GYN, involves vulnerability and trust. Patients have the absolute right to expect safety, respect, and professionalism. When a physician like Dr. Derrick Todd, who practiced in the Boston area, allegedly violates that trust through sexual misconduct, the damage inflicted is immense and deeply personal. If you are a former patient of Dr. Todd, and you were sexually abused, you might consider bringing a Dr. Derrick Todd sexual abuse lawsuit.
Holding abusers legally responsible for their actions is a courageous and powerful way for survivors to reclaim their voice and seek justice. Throughout Middlesex County, Massachusetts, survivors are finding the strength to come forward.
The Russo Firm stands in solidarity with them, offering determined, compassionate, and skilled legal representation. We understand the complex emotions involved in confronting abuse by a medical professional, and we are here to provide the confidential support and clear guidance you need to move forward.
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Why Choose The Russo Firm for Your Dr. Derrick Todd Sexual Abuse Lawsuit?
Choosing a legal team to handle a matter of such a sensitive nature is a monumental decision. You need more than just lawyers; you need advocates who understand the nuances of trauma and are fiercely committed to protecting your rights and your dignity. The Russo Firm’s practice is built on a foundation of empowering survivors and holding powerful individuals and institutions accountable for their actions.
Our trauma-informed approach means we prioritize your well-being throughout the legal process. We move at your pace, ensure you feel heard, and demystify the complexities of the law so you can make informed decisions. We believe that securing justice is a critical component of healing, and we are prepared to stand by your side every step of the way.
With The Russo Firm, you have a partner who will:
- Champion Your Cause: We are dedicated to your fight for justice, providing unwavering support from your first confidential call to the final resolution of your case.
- Protect Your Privacy: We understand the critical importance of confidentiality. We utilize every available legal tool, such as “Jane Doe” filings, to safeguard your identity.
- Investigate Meticulously: We leave no stone unturned in our investigation, seeking to uncover not only the doctor’s misconduct but also any failures by the institutions that employed or credentialed him.
- Operate on a Contingency Fee: You pay no fees unless and until we win your case. Our representation comes at no upfront cost to you.
What is a Doctor Sexual Abuse Claim?
A doctor sexual abuse claim is a civil lawsuit that allows a survivor to seek justice and financial compensation from a medical professional who has harmed them. It is a legal action separate from any criminal proceedings, with a different goal: to hold the abuser and potentially their employer financially responsible for the physical, emotional, and psychological damage they caused.
This type of claim is centered on a fundamental breach of the doctor-patient relationship, one of the most protected relationships under the law.
The Violation of a Sacred Trust
The doctor-patient relationship is built on a legal principle known as a fiduciary duty. This means the doctor must act solely in the best interests of their patient, placing the patient’s well-being above all else. When a physician like Dr. Todd is accused of any form of sexual misconduct, they are not just breaking a rule; they are shattering this sacred trust and violating their most fundamental professional and ethical obligation. This exploitation of power and vulnerability is the basis for a medical sexual abuse claim.
Misconduct in a Clinical Setting
Abusers in medical settings may exploit the clinical environment to blur the lines and confuse patients. They may attempt to pass off inappropriate actions as a normal part of an examination. It is vital to trust your instincts.
Sexual abuse by a healthcare provider may include, but is not limited to:
- Unnecessary or inappropriate touching of breasts, genitals, or other parts of the body.
- Performing sensitive exams without a medical reason or without a chaperone present.
- Making suggestive or sexual comments about your body, appearance, or personal life.
- Groping or assault under the guise of a medical procedure.
- Taking unauthorized photographs or recordings.
Any sexualized behavior from a doctor toward a patient is a severe violation of the standard of care.
Do I Have a Sexual Abuse Case Against Dr. Derrick Todd?
It is common for survivors of medical abuse to feel confused or to question what happened. Abusers are often skilled at manipulation, which can lead to self-doubt. If your experience with Dr. Derrick Todd left you feeling violated, uncomfortable, or unsafe, your feelings are valid and deserve to be explored in a safe, confidential space.
The best way to know if you have a viable legal claim is to speak with an attorney who has experience in these specific types of cases. A free consultation can provide the clarity and answers you are seeking, without any commitment required.
A strong case against a medical professional typically involves several key factors:
- You were a patient of Dr. Derrick Todd: A formal doctor-patient relationship existed.
- You were subjected to inappropriate conduct: This involves any non-consensual sexual contact, comments, or behavior.
- The conduct breached the standard of care: The doctor’s actions were outside the bounds of accepted medical practice.
- You suffered harm as a result: The abuse caused tangible harm, such as psychological trauma (PTSD, anxiety, depression), emotional distress, and the need for therapy.
You do not need to have definitive “proof” to make an inquiry. Our role is to launch a full investigation on your behalf. Your role is simply to take the first step by reaching out.
Who May Be Held Liable in a Sexual Abuse Claim Involving Dr. Derrick Todd?
While Dr. Derrick Todd should be held personally responsible for his alleged actions, the legal liability may extend to the medical institutions that gave him the platform to practice. Hospitals, clinics, and medical groups have a duty to protect their patients. When they fail in this duty through negligence, they can also be held accountable in a civil lawsuit.
Pursuing a claim against an institution is a crucial part of seeking full justice. It sends a powerful message that patient safety must be the top priority and can force organizations to reform their policies on hiring, supervision, and responding to complaints. Our legal team is skilled at investigating the corporate structures and administrative actions to identify every party that shares responsibility.
Parties that may be held liable in a claim involving Dr. Todd could include:
- Dr. Derrick Todd: The individual physician is directly liable for any personal injury and professional malpractice.
- The Medical Practice or Group: Any practice that employed Dr. Todd, such as those in the Boston area, may be held vicariously liable for the actions of their employee.
- Hospitals and Medical Centers: Facilities that granted Dr. Todd admitting or practicing privileges may be held liable for “negligent credentialing” if they failed to properly investigate his background or ignored red flags and complaints.
- Supervisors and Practice Partners: Individuals in a supervisory role who knew, or should have known, about the misconduct and failed to take appropriate action may also be held accountable.
What Damages Are Available in a Sexual Abuse Lawsuit?
A civil lawsuit cannot erase the trauma of what happened, but it can provide a meaningful form of justice and the financial support needed for a survivor’s recovery. The compensation secured in a lawsuit, called “damages,” is intended to address the complete range of a survivor’s losses, from calculable financial costs to profound emotional suffering.
Under Massachusetts law, damages are typically separated into two primary categories.
Compensatory Damages
This category covers the specific, verifiable financial losses that a survivor has incurred as a direct result of the abuse. This can include:
- Costs of Therapy and Counseling: Compensation for all past, present, and future psychological care needed to process the trauma.
- Medical Bills: Reimbursement for any related medical treatments.
- Lost Wages and Income: If the trauma has impacted your ability to work or maintain your career, you may be compensated for that lost income.
- Impaired Earning Capacity: Compensation for the long-term impact on your ability to earn a living in the future.
Nominal Damages
This category addresses the severe, non-tangible harm caused by the abuse. It is the law’s way of acknowledging the deep personal violation and emotional devastation. These damages may provide compensation for:
- Pain and Suffering: For the immense emotional distress and mental anguish endured.
- Psychological Trauma: Acknowledging conditions such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: For how the abuse has diminished your capacity for joy, trust, and healthy relationships.
In situations where the conduct was exceptionally reckless or malicious, a court may also award punitive damages. These are intended to punish the wrongdoer and to deter other medical professionals from engaging in similar misconduct. Punitive damages awards are rare in these cases.
What is the Deadline for Filing a Sexual Abuse Lawsuit Against Dr. Todd?
All states have laws called statutes of limitations that establish firm deadlines for filing lawsuits. The law is particularly complex for medical malpractice cases in Massachusetts. According to Massachusetts’ law, a claim must generally be filed within three years of the malpractice being discovered or when it should have been discovered.
However, factors like fraudulent concealment, where a doctor actively hides their wrongdoing, can sometimes extend this deadline. Because these time limits are strict and unforgiving, it is critical that you do not delay in seeking legal advice. Contacting our team promptly will allow us to evaluate the specifics of your situation and help protect your right to pursue justice. Please do not assume you have run out of time.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Sexual Abuse Attorney?
The potential cost of hiring a lawyer should never be a barrier to seeking justice. At The Russo Firm, we handle all sexual abuse claims on a contingency fee basis. This means there are absolutely no upfront costs or out-of-pocket expenses for you to retain our services.
We cover all the costs of investigating and litigating your case. We only get paid if we succeed in securing financial compensation for you, either through a negotiated settlement or a verdict at trial. Our fee is a percentage of the amount we recover on your behalf. This approach allows you to access top-tier legal representation and fight for your rights without any financial risk. Your initial consultation to discuss your case is always 100% free and confidential.
How a Lawyer From The Russo Firm Can Help You
Facing a legal battle against a doctor and potentially a hospital system is an intimidating process that no survivor should have to endure alone. Our mission is to serve as your dedicated advocates, managing every legal detail so that you can focus on your own healing and well-being.
From our first conversation, The Russo Firm will:
- Provide a Safe and Confidential Consultation: We create a safe space for you to share your story without judgment and provide clear answers to your initial questions.
- Launch an Immediate and Thorough Investigation: We will work to obtain Dr. Todd’s employment records, look for prior complaints, identify other potential survivors, and gather all necessary evidence to build a powerful case.
- Protect You From the Opposition: We will handle all communications with the defense attorneys and insurance companies, shielding you from any attempts to intimidate or pressure you.
- Engage Respected Medical Experts: We collaborate with independent medical professionals who can provide expert testimony on how Dr. Todd’s alleged actions violated the standard of care.
- Fight for a Maximum Settlement: We are skilled negotiators who will aggressively pursue a comprehensive settlement that fully acknowledges the harm you have suffered.
- Prepare for Trial: While most cases settle, we prepare every case as if it will go to trial. If a fair offer is not made, we are ready to be your powerful voice in the courtroom.
Dr. Derrick Todd Sexual Assault Lawsuit FAQs
Is my privacy protected if I come forward?
We understand that confidentiality is essential. We can file your lawsuit under a “Jane Doe” pseudonym, which keeps your name and identifying information out of the public court filings and protects your privacy. We’ll explain other privacy actions during a free consultation.
What if I consented to some actions but not others?
In a doctor-patient relationship, the immense power imbalance makes true, free consent unlikely. A doctor who initiates any sexual behavior is exploiting their position. Do not let feelings of confusion or self-blame stop you from seeking answers. We can help you understand the legal realities of your situation.
Will I have to face Dr. Todd in court?
The vast majority of civil lawsuits are resolved through a negotiated settlement before they ever reach a courtroom. Our goal is to achieve the justice you deserve without the added stress of a public trial. However, if a trial becomes necessary, we will be by your side, preparing and supporting you at every stage.
I am afraid of retaliation. Can you help?
It is illegal for anyone to retaliate against you for filing a lawsuit. We are here to protect you. Our legal team will deal swiftly and aggressively with any attempts at intimidation or retaliation.
You Can Trust The Russo Firm to Advocate For You in a Dr. Derrick Todd Sexual Abuse Lawsuit
The trust you placed in Dr. Derrick Todd was violated, and the harm you experienced was not your fault. By taking the step to explore your legal options, you are not only standing up for yourself but also helping to protect other patients in communities like Boston and across Middlesex County. Your courage can create change.
At The Russo Firm, we see your strength and are ready to match it with our skill and dedication. Contact our compassionate team today by calling us at(954) 767-0676 or filling out our online contact form for a free, confidential, and no-obligation consultation. Let us show you how we can help you reclaim your power and fight for the justice you rightfully deserve.
The Russo Firm – Delray Beach Office
301 W Atlantic Ave
Delray Beach, FL 33444
P: (561) 203-6656