Dr. David Farley Sexual Abuse Lawsuit

Patients who have experienced violations during medical care often face emotional and legal challenges, but it is important to understand that you have rights and options. If you were a patient of Dr. David Farley and endured inappropriate medical exams, unnecessary or invasive procedures, or any form of sexual misconduct, you may be entitled to seek justice through a Dr. David Farley sexual abuse lawsuit.

About Dr. David Farley 

Dr. David Farley, previously a West Linn doctor, was a licensed family medicine practitioner in Oregon and a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). He faces allegations of having sexually abused more than 160 patients, using his position as a trusted medical practitioner to cause significant harm under the guise of routine medical care.

The Oregon Medical Board revoked Farley’s medical license in October 2020 after investigating allegations of sexual crimes, including inappropriate medical treatment. 

Farley has been accused of performing medically unnecessary pelvic exams and breast exams on young girls under 18. Many of Farley’s alleged victims were members of his Mormon church (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) community, where he held a leadership position. 

Lisa Pratt, one of the patients who filed a sexual abuse lawsuit, is actively involved in raising awareness about the misconduct. By recognizing situations where legal action may be appropriate, Farley’s former patients can begin to take steps toward accountability and healing.

When Should Alleged Victims Work With a Law Firm?

Unnecessary or Painful Exams Can Be Sexual Assault

If you underwent medical exams that were not explained, felt unnecessarily intrusive, or caused you undue discomfort – like pelvic, breast, or rectal exams – this may indicate misconduct. These procedures should be performed only for a clear medical purpose, and any violation of this trust is grounds for legal action in Oregon.

A pap smear is used to test for cervical cancer, but some doctors may do these more frequently than necessary or touch external genitalia during the exam. A doctor inappropriately touching external genitalia is usually considered abuse. 

Being Photographed During Exams Can Mean An Oregon Doctor is Sexually Abusing You

Medical photography requires your informed consent and a legitimate purpose if you were photographed without understanding why or without permission, this could constitute a serious breach of professional ethics and the law.

Non-Consensual Procedures

If you underwent medical exams that were not explained, felt unnecessarily intrusive, or caused you undue discomfort – like pelvic exams, breast exams, pap smears, or rectal exams – this may indicate misconduct. These procedures should be performed only for a clear medical purpose, and any violation of this trust is grounds for legal action in Oregon.

Farley has been accused of performing medically unnecessary pelvic exams and breast exams on teenage patients and young girls under the age of 18.

Inappropriate Comments, Groping, or Touching

Any form of touching or verbal interaction that feels disrespectful, sexual, or unnecessary during an exam is unacceptable. These experiences not only breach professional boundaries but can also cause emotional and psychological harm to the patient.

Taking legal steps against Dr. Farley can feel overwhelming, but understanding when it’s necessary is essential.

What’s Going On With the Former West Linn Doctor’s Sexual Abuse Charges?

In recent months, the legal claims against Dr. Farley for alleged sexual abuse have seen a number of developments, shedding more light on what survivors have reportedly endured.

• 2020 – David Farley resigned from practice in Oregon and had his medical license revoked by the Oregon Medical Board. After many reports and allegations of illegal and inappropriate behavior, they found that he engaged in unprofessional or dishonorable conduct.
• 2020 – Criminal investigation opened by the West Linn Police Department (Detective Christensen), Clackamas County DA’s Office, and the Department of Justice. Police reports were a key part of the investigation, and patients were encouraged to file them. No criminal charges were filed against Farley by the West Linn PD or the prosecutors. The criminal investigation has faced criticism for alleged mishandling and lack of thoroughness, and Farley’s former patients have expressed frustration over law enforcement’s handling of their complaints.
• An independent investigation uncovered significant shortcomings in how sexual abuse cases were handled by the local police and Clackamas County District Attorney’s office, prompting calls for better procedures and training.
• 2022 – After a criminal investigation, the grand jury declined to indict David Farley, finding there was not enough evidence to secure a criminal indictment at that time.
• 2022 – Over 70 former patients of Farley sent a letter to Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum, urging further action.
• 2023 – Civil suit filed against Doctor David Farley and affiliated medical centers. The lawsuit now includes over 160 patients alleging sexual abuse.
• 2023 – Farley was indicted on nine counts of sexual crimes and two related counts (all felonies), including first-degree and second-degree sexual abuse, with charges involving a minor under 14. The criminal charges relate to incidents that allegedly occurred between February 2009 and July 2020. The progression of the case included felony sexual abuse charges, with three counts initially, later expanded to two counts of first-degree sexual abuse and two related counts, highlighting the breadth of associated counts of sexual abuse. Farley pleaded not guilty to all charges during his arraignment. Farley turned himself in for arraignment and was booked at Clackamas County Jail. A judge set Farley’s bail at $500,000, which was later reduced to $100,000. Farley is currently living in Nephi, Utah, with his wife. 
• 2025 – Farley’s trial was scheduled to begin on December 3. Survivors have described their fight for accountability as ‘heroic,’ despite initial setbacks in the justice system. However, the former Oregon doctor’s trial was postponed until sometime in 2026. The medical practitioner has faced approximately six more allegations, including some from female patients alleging improper medical treatment. He is scheduled to be arraigned in January 2026 and may face the grand jury that year.

The road ahead still has many steps, but staying informed about the case’s progress can provide hope and direction for those seeking closure and moving forward. Many people can still press criminal charges for Farley’s abuse. 

How Can a Sexual Abuse Lawyer Help You Win Your Case?

An experienced attorney can help survivors navigate the legal system while protecting their rights. Key ways an attorney can assist include:

• Gathering medical records to establish a pattern of Farley’s abuse: An attorney can obtain and review your medical records to prove your allegations. They can help you get documents from medical institutions for teenage patients who received inappropriate medical care, or from police reports. 
• Consulting medical experts to prove unnecessary medical procedures: Law firms consult with professionals who can analyze procedures or treatments you received. Their expert opinions can determine whether the former doctor’s actions were inappropriate or lacked medical justification.
• Handling sensitive legal procedures, such as anonymous filings: The right law firm understands how civil and criminal investigations work. They can help you file your case anonymously, using a “Jane Doe” or “John Doe” designation, and ensure your identity remains confidential.
• Negotiating settlements to secure financial compensation: Lawyers are skilled in dealing with opposing parties to help patients seek monetary damages for the harm they’ve endured.
• Litigation in court if necessary: If a settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will be prepared to represent you and engage in litigation at your trial date. After their investigation, they will present a strong case against Doctor Farley.

By working with an experienced lawyer, women who Dr. Farley victimized can gain the guidance and support they need to take action.

What Legal Rights Do Plaintiffs Have in This Alleged Sexual Abuse Case?

Many of Dr. David Farley’s patients did not initially recognize their experiences as sex abuse, either due to a lack of sex education or manipulation by Dr. Farley. However, they now have the right to take legal action.

• Join Ongoing Lawsuit: Patients can join the ongoing lawsuit against Dr. Farley and any medical institutions that enabled or ignored his behavior.
• File New Lawsuit: Alternatively, patients of Farley’s who prefer an individual approach can file a separate lawsuit against Dr. Farley to seek damages for their personal suffering, including emotional trauma, medical expenses, and other related costs they suffered as a result of Dr. Farley’s conduct.
• Report Abuse to Law Enforcement: Patients of Doctor Farley’s may also report abuse to law enforcement. By filing a report, women can contribute to criminal investigations and help ensure that Doctor Farley faces criminal consequences. If there’s sufficient evidence, a criminal trial may be held.

Taking these steps can seem overwhelming, but with the help of a compassionate attorney, survivors can make informed decisions that feel right for their situation.

Who is Eligible To File a David Farley Lawsuit?

You may be eligible to file a civil suit if you were a patient of David Farley and experienced sexual misconduct under his care. This may include inappropriate behavior during exams or any conduct that violates your trust as a patient. Speaking to an experienced sexual abuse attorney can help you understand your rights, how the investigation works, and what steps to take next.

What Damages Can Victims Recover in a Sexual Abuse Lawsuit?

Patients of Dr. Farley’s medical abuse may be eligible for significant compensation. If you’ve experienced harm, seeking legal recourse could provide the support you deserve. Below are some of the types of compensation you may be entitled to:

• Medical Expenses
• Lost Wages
• Loss of Earning Capacity
• Emotional Distress and Psychological Trauma
• Loss of Trust in Medical Professionals
• Punitive Damages

Pursuing a legal case is not just about financial compensation; it’s a step toward closure for patients, and it helps prevent others from suffering the same way.

What’s the Average David Farley Lawsuit Settlement Amount?

When considering potential settlement amounts for a David Farley sexual assault and abuse case, exact figures are difficult to predict, as every case is unique. However, examining similar high-profile settlements may provide context for what to expect.

For instance, the survivors of Olympic doctor Larry Nassar collectively received $880 million in settlements. Survivors of former USC gynecologist George Tyndall reached an $852 million settlement. Additionally, 151 women impacted by UCLA’s former gynecologist, James Heaps, secured $243.6 million for abuse cases.

While these cases demonstrate the potential for significant settlements, outcomes depend on several factors, including the specifics of the case, the number of victims, and the evidence presented. The best way for survivors to get a better idea of what they may be entitled to in a Dr. Farley case is to reach out to a sex abuse lawyer as soon as possible.

Who Is Liable in the Dr. David Farley Sexual Abuse Case?

Several individuals and entities may be liable in this case.

Dr. David Farley (Primary Defendant)

Dr. Farley is the primary defendant. He is accused of abusing over 120 patients by performing unnecessary exams and procedures. He targeted both minor and adult patients, exploiting their trust.

West Linn Family Health Center

West Linn is accused of failing to supervise or adequately investigate Dr. Farley despite receiving multiple patient complaints. West Linn’s inaction allowed him to continue sexually abusing patients.

Legacy Meridian Park Medical Center

Legacy Meridian Park faces allegations that it failed to oversee Dr. Farley’s conduct. Like others, their failure to investigate or intervene despite patient complaints may make them complicit in enabling his actions.

Providence Willamette Falls Medical Center

Providence Willamette Falls is also accused of failing to monitor or investigate Dr. Farley properly. This lack of oversight is seen as contributing to the harm done to Doctor Farley’s patients.

State Medical Board

While the Oregon Medical Board eventually revoked Dr. Farley’s medical license, questions remain about whether they acted too late. Oregon Medical Board’s delayed response and failure to conduct an investigation right away may have left more patients exposed to harm.

How Do You Report Sexual Abuse by Dr. Farley to Law Enforcement?

Although the initial criminal investigation into Dr. Farley’s actions has already been conducted, law enforcement is still reviewing new reports. If you’re ready to share your experience, here’s what to do:

• Contact the authorities: Reach out to the West Linn Police Department or the Clackamas County District Attorney’s Office to report the incident. Patients have been directed to contact Detective Tony Christensen about the case. These agencies are handling ongoing criminal investigations.
• Write down your account: Take time to document your experience. Include important information such as dates, locations, specific incidents, and the names of any potential witnesses.
• Consult a lawyer first: Before submitting an official report, it’s advisable to speak with an attorney. They can help you understand your options and assist with filing your report.

Reaching out can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Support systems are in place to help you begin this process, and our legal team is always available if you have questions.

What Laws Govern David Farley Sexual Abuse Cases?

When survivors pursue civil lawsuits against Dr. David Farley in Oregon for harmful sexual misconduct, several Oregon laws and legal principles dictate how those cases are brought, what duties professionals owe, and when legal action must begin. Oregon has also recently moved toward expanded filing opportunities for survivors.

Mandatory Reporting and Professional Duty

While civil lawsuits are separate from criminal charges, the law requires certain professionals to report suspected sexual misconduct involving minors, and failure to do so can be highlighted in civil litigation to show that a duty was breached:

• Child Abuse Reporting Law — Professionals such as doctors, nurses, and others who work with children are required to make a report if they know or reasonably suspect sexual misconduct against a minor. This duty is defined in ORS 419B.005–419B.050. These statutes set out who must report and what qualifies as child abuse or neglect for reporting purposes.

In civil lawsuits, evidence that a mandated reporter failed to report can support claims that the professional or facility was unable to meet the standard of care.

Civil Statutes of Limitations 

Oregon’s rules about deadlines for filing civil claims involving sexual misconduct have recently changed in ways that benefit survivors:

• Traditional Deadline (ORS 12.117) — Oregon previously set time limits on when a civil lawsuit related to harmful sexual conduct could be filed, using a statute tied to ORS 12.117. Under the prior law, filing deadlines were tied to the discovery of harm and the survivor’s age. However, this statute has been significantly affected by subsequent reforms. 
• Elimination of Civil Statute of Limitations (House Bill 3582) — In 2025, the Oregon Legislature passed legislation to remove the civil statute of limitations for lawsuits based on sexual crimes by individuals. This means there is no strict deadline now for a survivor to file a civil lawsuit for sexual misconduct, even if many years have passed since the incident. 

Importantly, while this law applies prospectively to suits filed after its effective date, courts will look to the statute in effect at the time a civil case accrues to decide whether an older claim can still go forward.

Professional Liability and Negligence

In addition to statutory reporting duties and filing deadlines, civil suits against a doctor like Dr. Farley generally involve claims grounded in professional negligence and negligent supervision or retention:

• Healthcare professionals are expected to provide care that meets community standards. If a physician engages in harmful sexual misconduct, an attorney will typically argue that the doctor breached the standard of care owed to the patient, which may support claims for damages under civil law. 
• If Dr. Farley was employed by, affiliated with, or supervised by a medical practice, hospital, or clinic, plaintiffs may also allege that the entity failed to properly manage or prevent misconduct, thereby extending liability beyond the individual doctor.

This means survivors — whether minors or adults at the time — now have a greater ability to bring civil actions against perpetrators and responsible entities, regardless of how much time has passed.

Why Choose Our Sexual Abuse Law Firm?

At our firm, we understand how challenging it can be to come forward after experiencing sex abuse. Here are a few reasons to choose us:

Free Consultations: Reach out to us for confidential, free consultations. You can share your story in a safe, non-judgmental environment without worrying about upfront costs.

We Take Care of All Legal Aspects: Our legal team handles the entire legal process. We’ll handle all legal aspects so you don’t have to face it alone.

Commitment to Dignity and Justice: Above all, we’re committed to treating every client with dignity and care. Seeking compensation is never easy, but you don’t have to go through it by yourself.

We’re here to give you the help you’re truly entitled to.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Dr. Farley Lawsuit

What happens if I’m not sure I was abused?

If you experienced an unnecessary, invasive, or painful medical procedure or were harmed in another way, it’s possible you were a victim of sexual assault or abuse. A lawyer can help review your situation, listen to your concerns, and determine if legal action is appropriate.

Can I remain anonymous in my lawsuit against Dr. Farley?

Yes, you can file as Jane Doe or John Doe to protect your identity. This allows you to move forward with your case while maintaining privacy.

Is it too late to file a Dr. Farley lawsuit?

Not necessarily. The law extends deadlines in many sex abuse cases, especially for minors and vulnerable adults. Each case is different, so it’s worth reaching out to learn how the deadline applies to your specific situation.

Contact Us For a Free Consultation

If you were a patient of Dr. David Farley and suspect you were a victim of medical sexual abuse, legal help is available. Our lawyers specialize in cases of this nature and are committed to helping survivors fight back. With a focus on compassion, confidentiality, and expertise, we can conduct an investigation and guide you through every step of the legal process.

Taking action can feel overwhelming, but our team is dedicated to making the process as straightforward and supportive as possible. You don’t have to face this alone. Contact Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers today to speak with a doctor sexual abuse lawyer.

All content undergoes thorough legal review by experienced attorneys, including Jonathan Rosenfeld. With 25 years of experience in personal injury law and over 100 years of combined legal expertise within our team, we ensure that every article is legally accurate, compliant, and reflects current legal standards.