Several lawyers have had a significant impact on sexual assault cases, often helping to change laws or set precedents. Here are a few notable ones:
Gloria Allred - An American women's rights lawyer, Allred is known for handling high-profile and often controversial cases, especially those involving the protection of women's rights. She has represented many complainants in cases against celebrities and powerful figures, and has advocated for victims of sexual assault and harassment.
Katherine McKinnon - Although primarily a researcher and activist, McKinnon's legal work has had a significant impact on sexual harassment law. Her work in the legal case "Meritor Savings Bank v. Vinson" helped establish that sexual harassment is a form of illegal employment discrimination.
Joseph Monahan - He was one of the prosecutors in the infamous rape case
"Big Dan's Tavern" in New Bedford, Massachusetts, later adapted into the film "The Accused" starring Jodie Foster. The case was central to national debates about rape and victim blaming.
Martha Coakley - As a district attorney, Coakley prosecuted high-profile child sexual abuse cases, including the high-profile case against former pastor John Gaughan, a central figure in the Boston clergy abuse scandal covered by the Spotlight investigative team.
These attorneys helped highlight issues of sexual assault and misconduct, contributing to social change and greater awareness