Questions & Answers
Can my sister file a claim for compensation after a criminal case for sexual harassment?
Hello,
My sister filed a criminal case against her employer (sexual harassment), and it is already with the Public Prosecutor.
Her employer refuses to compensate her at all. Can we file a civil claim? When should we do it?
Can we still file a civil claim after the judgment of the case?
Hello,
After he is convicted in the criminal case, you can file a civil case to ask for compensation. You can also join the criminal case now and request compensation.
But the problem is, if you join the criminal case and he is found not guilty in the end, you will lose the fees you paid.
However, if he is convicted first and then you file a civil case, the court will later order him to pay back the fees you paid when you registered the civil case.
Hello,
Yes. In the UAE legal system, a criminal case and a civil case are distinct and can proceed independently. The outcome of one does not automatically determine the outcome of the other, although findings in the criminal case can be used as evidence in the civil case.
A civil claim is initiated by the victim (your sister) to seek compensation for the damages she has suffered due to the employer's actions.
These damages can include emotional distress, psychological harm, loss of earnings, and potential reputational damage.
If you need further clarification, you may ask us.
Dear Client,
Thank you for reaching out regarding your sister’s situation!
We understand the sensitivity and importance of this matter. In the UAE, victims of criminal offenses such as sexual harassment are entitled to seek financial compensation through a civil claim, in addition to pursuing criminal proceedings.
1. Civil Claim Options:
- Filing During Criminal Proceedings:
Your sister may file a civil claim for compensation while the criminal case is ongoing. The Public Prosecutor or the criminal court can consider the civil aspect alongside the criminal charges.
- Filing After Criminal Judgment:
If the criminal court does not address the compensation issue, or if you prefer, a separate civil case can be filed after the criminal judgment is issued. In many cases, a criminal conviction strengthens the civil claim, as the court’s findings support the claim for damages.
2. Our Services:
Our legal team specializes in both criminal and civil litigation in the UAE. We can assist your sister by:
- Providing a confidential consultation to review her case and advise on the best timing and strategy for filing a civil claim,
- Preparing and submitting all necessary legal documents,
- Representing her interests before the relevant courts,
- Pursuing fair compensation for emotional distress, reputational harm, and financial loss.
If you would like to discuss your sister’s case further or require our legal assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are committed to supporting you through every step of this process.
Best regards,